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"The Bluest Eye", 2007.
A discussion of the theme of racial discrimination in Toni Morrison's novel, "The Bluest Eye."
1,094 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the novel "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison. It explores the ways that Morrison vividly and starkly develops the theme of racism against African-Americans in America in the 1940s, within the novel. It discusses the interactions between three Black girls and the ways that they contend with White-dominated American standards of beauty, femininity and worth.
From the Paper
"The culture in which Pecola and the other girls live values everything whites do, but nothing blacks do. As a result, the girls dislike whites, but they envy the beauty of whites, not because it is objectively better than their own looks, but because the society they live in thinks it is, and therefore devalues their own culture. Pecola hates white dolls, and white girls, for example, yet she would still love to have blue eyes. Pecola, therefore, longs to have something she never can naturally have, and at the same time, as a result of the prejudice of the society she lives in, rejects her own natural self. Further, the more crazy Pecola becomes within the novel, the more she talks about, and yearns to have, blue eyes, to the point where she insists she wants the bluest eyes in the world and even kills a dog to try to get them. In this way, then, Toni Morrison, within her novel The Bluest Eye (1970), depicts, poignantly and powerful, the theme of racial prejudice and discrimination against blacks in the 1940's, and the negative impact(s) of it on three similarly-aged black girls and especially on one in particular, Pecola Breedlove."
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Pan-Africanism, 2007.
This paper presents a detailed exploration of Pan-Africanism, espcially in Harlem and Paris.
3,945 words (approx. 15.8 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 107.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses Pan-Africanism, a movement based on the 19th century desire to end slavery not only in the United States but also in South American and the Caribbean. It was from this era that Black people throughout the world decided that the way to address many of the issues they experienced as a race was to work together as a team. The paper describes the international meetings held to discuss this issue and also highlights the leadership of the Pan-African movement. The author concludes that the Pan-Africanism movement was and still is a positive team-oriented effort to introduce the African-American culture to the world and to share the common bond among people worldwide who share an African ancestral background.
Outline:
Introduction
In a Nutshell
Harlem Renaissance
The Arts
Conclusion
From the Paper
"When one studies the topic of Pan-Africanism one is not studying a single element in history but instead is studying a wide range of events and cultural preferences that go along with African American history and culture. Experts agree that there is not a single definition for the term Pan-Africanism but the term itself does define it as an independent idea. The concept of Pan-Africanism is based in the 19th century desire to end slavery. At that time slavery was not only an issue in the United States but was also an issue in several other nations including South American and the Caribbean(Definition of Pan-Africanism? http://geography.about.com/b/a/012445.htm). It was from this era that Black people throughout the world decided that the way to solve many of the problems that the race was experiencing was work together as a team."
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The Tuskegee Airmen, 2006.
A look at the role that the Tuskegee Airmen played in World War II.
2,638 words (approx. 10.6 pages), 13 sources, MLA, $ 79.95
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Abstract
This paper focuses on the continuing segregation, humiliation and stereotypes of African-Americans, and more specifically the Tuskegee Airmen, during their service in World War II. The paper proposes that despite the treatment the Tuskegee Airmen faced, they served admirably and thus helped set the stage for the desegregation of the United States Armed service.
From the Paper
"The 99th Fighter Pursuit Squadron finally got their orders to report overseas in April of 1943 where they were assigned to help support the invasion of Sicily. Their main mission however remained one of limited contact with the enemy as their major responsibility was strafing of enemy targets which limited their air to air combat record. This lack of air to air combat record along with the squadron's transition to active combat would lead to major problems not only for the black airmen of the 99th but it would also raise the question about the role blacks would play in future operations."
"The problem for the 99th came in the form of their first combat evaluation penned by Colonel William Momyer in which he severely criticized the performance and disposition of the 99th and its personnel. In his report Moymer states: "The ability to work and fight as a team has not yet been acquired. [...] Their formation flying has been very satisfactory until jumped by enemy aircraft. This has been repeatedly been brought to the attention of the squadron, but attempts to correct this deficiency so far have been unfruitful [...] The unit shows a lack of aggressive spirit that is necessary for a well-organized fighter squadron [...] Based on the performance of the 99th Fighter Squadron to date, it is my opinion they are not of the flying caliber of any squadron in the group.[...] It may be expected that we will get less work and less operation time out of the 99th Fighter Squadron than any squadron in this Group" ( qtd. in Osur p.48)."
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"Invisible Man", 2007.
This paper reviews Ralph Ellison's novel "Invisible Man."
978 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the novel "Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison and, in particular, analyzes the concept of invisibility. The invisibility which Ellison describes, whether on the part of blacks or whites, is due to ignorance and prejudice, and it keeps people from being able to see others for who they truly are. This concept is further explored in different contexts throughout the novel. The paper suggests that the book itself is a disturbing narrative of the author's lifelong struggle to be genuinely who he is.
From the Paper
"A very naive narrator finds himself unemployed in New York, having been deceived and betrayed by the college president. Through a few incidents of pure bad luck, he is given experimental electric shock therapy treatment at a hospital against his will. Who he is, and what has happened to land him in the hospital is of no interest to the doctors and nurses. His condition and his body are there, but who he really is remains invisible to them. Staggering out on the street afterwards, he is taken in by a kind woman, Mary, who takes care of him for a long while. She does not find him invisible, and is patient with his job search because she feels he has a special mission for their race."
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"Beloved", 2007.
An analysis of the use of trees as an impassive life force in "Beloved" by Toni Morrison.
3,143 words (approx. 12.6 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 91.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how Toni Morrison, in "Beloved", constructs an intricate journey through and around the complex and painful lives of post-civil war slaves.The paper analyzes how Morrison's use of trees is a way of showing how trees have no life tragedies to remember, no sense of loss, no sense of their beauty, and experience; nothing but growth, death and the pure elements of sunshine, water, soil and fire. The writer proposes that, although there is a definite biblical flavor to her writing, the trees symbolize a far more comprehensive spirituality than that of simple Christian dogma.
From the Paper
"During these months when Sethe, Beloved and Denver were behind locked doors, Sethe used all of their money to buy fabric and ribbons and sewed outlandish clothes for them. Beloved began to be overly demanding and abusive to Sethe, and eventually began to turn Sethe into her own mistreated slave. It dawns on Denver that she no longer needs to protect Beloved from her mother, but vice versa. Denver, after twelve years at the house, walks to the home of her former teacher and enlists her help. Denver finds that the world is not so unfriendly, and is actually far saner than her life at home. Through the help of the community, she provides food to Beloved and her mother, whose sanity has completely abandoned them by now."
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"Sula", 2007.
An analysis of feminist ideals in the book, "Sula", by Toni Morrison.
1,767 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
The paper analyzes how Angela Davis, in her essay "Rape, Racism and the Myth of the Black Rapist", expresses some of the themes involved in the second wave of feminism. The paper explores how this feminism no longer merely notes the equality of men and women, but focuses on the role of social institutions in keeping women subjugated, even as they act as if they are free and independent. The paper examines how the themes Davis presents can be traced through the fiction of Toni Morrison, notably in "Sula", a book of considerable depth. The paper further discusses how Morrison's use of language and images are similar in theme to those discussed by Davis.
From the Paper
"Facing the characters in this novel at all times is the reality of racism, and this as well is a remnant of the past, the past of the slave era, that persists in creating damage in the present. Morrison notes this from the first as she describes why the Bottom came to be. A deeper racism is seen by Helene as completely is in her past and so outside Medallion, and this racism appears once more as soon as she starts to leave the community. This is in the North, of course, but the way the white conductor on the train treats her recalls the way she felt in the South when she was a child in New Orleans."
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Patricia Reynolds Harris, 2006.
A review of the life and career of Patricia Reynolds Harris.
1,219 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the accomplishments of Patricia Reynolds Harris, the first African-American woman to hold a cabinet post, the first to be an ambassador to a foreign country, and the first to be a director of a major American corporation - IBM. The paper discusses how she also earned a law degree, helped nominate a President, served on federal civil rights commissions and played an important role in Democratic Party politics.
From the Paper
"In 1967 she returned to teaching at Howard University, and in 1969 she was appointed Law School Dean (Capital Outlook, p. 1). However, she only stayed one month. Shortly after she was appointed, a student protest occurred. She was opposed to the protest, an unpopular position not supported by the university's president (ESPER, p. 1), and she left the school. She then joined a Washington, D.C. law firm as a partner (Staff, p. 1). In 1971, she was appointed to the Board of Directors of one of the United State's largest and most important corporations - International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) (World Book, p. 1). Meanwhile she continued to be active and influential in the Democratic Party. In 1972 she was headed the Credentials Committee, and in 1973 was again a delegate to the Democratic National Committee (Staff, p. 1). She also remained vitally interested in civil rights. From 1967 to 1977, she was on the executive Board of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund (Johnson, p. 1). "
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"Let America be America Again", 2006.
An analysis of the poem "Let America be America Again" by Langston Hughes.
1,067 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at Langston Hughes' poem "Let America be America Again". The paper focuses primarily on the theme of hope and protest that are prevalent throughout the poem. According to the paper, Hughes emphasizes the conflict he sees for African-Americans and, at the same time, he visualizes hope for them.
From the Paper
"Here we see how the poet is reaching for hope that he has not yet seen but believes is possible. This passage reveals how America can be the dream that his people long for without tyranny and the notion that one man can crush another. Here, we see how the poet longs for every man to get along and believes that it can happen at some point in history. This is also evident when the poet writes, "opportunity is real, and life is free,/Equality is in the air we breathe" (13-14). He writes, "I am the young man, full of strength and hope,/Tangled in that ancient endless chain/Of profit, power, gain, of grab the land!" (26-8). This is an interesting passage because it unites the hope the poet believes in and the underlying reason for protest of why it does not exist. Again, we see that the poet clings to hope because he realizes how important it is to the human psyche. "
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"Deep South", 2006.
A discussion on "Deep South" written by Allison Davis.
1,831 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 58.95
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Abstract
The first part of this paper looks at Davis' arguments regarding the link between social class and education. The next part of the paper evaluates whether the author's arguments remain relevant, especially in light of other authors who continue to investigate the links between social class and education. In the conclusion, it argues that Davis' contributions to the field of multicultural education deserve greater recognition.
From the Paper
"In Children of Bondage, Davis also found that internalized values play a critical role in the educational aspirations of black children. Children from low-income families have seen first-hand how minimal their chances are to finish high school and college. The economic and social-mobility benefits of education therefore remain out of reach for many children from low-income families. Consequently, Davis concludes from interviews with teachers and educator administrators that due to these social circumstances, many low-income black youth learn not to value education."
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African-American Religion, 2007.
This paper describes the role of African-American churches in organizing the black community during the Civil Rights Movement.
2,351 words (approx. 9.4 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 72.95
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Abstract
This paper argues that African-American churches served as the foundation for the African-American struggle for civil rights during the 20th century. The author traces the history of the churches, focusing on their importance socially as well as spiritually to the community. The author is somewhat critical of mainstream Christianity and its exclusion of Blacks. The paper concludes by citing major Black religious figures in America and acknowledging that religion has impacted African-American history from a highly diverse set of directions.
From the Paper
"Still, the notion that the Christian Church has been a leading force in the movement towards social change for the African American has not gone unchallenged. Some have contended that the Christian Church as acted as an opiate for generations to the African American people. One critic stated, "Instead of cursing the white man, [blacks] shout at the Lord. Instead of kicking whitey, [blacks] kick over the pew." Those who believe that the African American Church acts as an opiate to the black sub-culture contend that it induces many individuals to appeal to God for social change, when, more realistically, they should be acting to bring about social change themselves; in other words, they believe that the church provides an outlet for black people's frustrations, so they can be directed away from actions that might elementally undermine the current radicalized American social system. Eventually, a scientific study conducted by Gary Marx in the 1960's attempted to find any correlation between the level of religious fervor of black Americans and their associated beliefs regarding the Civil Rights movement: "Specifically, Marx established that in his sample, the greater the subjective importance of religion to black respondents, and the more often they went to church, the less militant they were in support of the civil rights issues." Even more recent theorists have agreed with the assessment of the role of the African American Church in social activism; arguing that it is centrally a device for passivity and control."
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"The Promised Land", 2007.
A discussion on Nicholas Lemann's book, "The Promised Land: The Great Black Migration and How it Changed America".
2,800 words (approx. 11.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 83.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the thesis about migration and its effects in Nicholas Lemann's book "The Promised Land: The Great Black Migration and How it Changed America". It looks at how Lemann shores up his thesis, through the use of intertwined personal stories. It also evaluates the strength of Lemann's positions, especially those related to the ghetto's continuity and how the federal government could institute policies geared towards ending the problems associated with a permanent, ghetto-based black underclass. Additionally, the paper evaluates the implications of Lemann's findings in light of critical race theory and the sociology of minority group relations. Finally, the paper argues that, 15 years after its initial publication, Lemann's book and propositions remain relevant.
From the Paper
"The regrouping of this culture in the inner city therefore meant that many of the old problems were resurrected, and often intensified. As Uless Carter's later experiences show, black unemployment continued to be a problem in urban areas as well. The black migrant's dream of the promised land of economic opportunity therefore collided with the ugly reality of Chicago's south side. By the 1960s, the problem of joblessness had loomed large. Residents had to contend with slum housing conditions that had skyrocketing crime rates. Ruby Lee Haynes shows how black families struggled with dysfunction and welfare dependency. The racial crisis that loomed in the south had moved northward, and policymakers in Washington did not know how to handle or avert the crisis."
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Langston Hughes and Walt Whitman, 2006.
A review and comparison of the poems "I, too, sing America" by Langston Hughes and "I Hear America Singing" by Walt Whitman.
1,592 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at Walt Whitman's "I Hear America Singing" and Langston Hughes' "I, too, sing America". According to the paper, both poems address the beauty of the many voices of Americans and express a feeling of optimism, while also reflecting the variety of the voices and a feeling of joy.
From the Paper
"Whitman's "I Hear America Singing" is typical of his style in that it employs free verse and has an effusive spirit. The situation is that of a speaker who observes and listens to the "varied carols" of Americans. The speaker expresses delight at the voices of mechanics, carpenters, masons, boatmen, deck-hands, shoemakers, hatters, wood-cutters, ploughboys, mothers, and wives. Many of these images reflect the activity and bustle of a burgeoning America in 1860. There are obvious building and growth images in the work of "the carpenter singing his as he measures his plank or beam" and "the mason singing his as he makes ready for work." The mothers and wives, too, are building the future with their "delicious singing." The pervasive spirit of hopefulness in the poem is like beautiful music to the listener."
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"The Declining Significance of Race", 2007.
A review of the continued relevance of the issues related in "The Declining Significance of Race" by William Wilson.
2,144 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 67.95
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Abstract
This paper examines "The Declining Significance of Race" by William Wilson. It evaluates which of Wilson's points remain relevant in examining race and class relations today. It then examines the book's weaknesses, such as the presentation of African-Americans as a monolithic culture. In the conclusion, the paper finds that Wilson's book remains an insightful starting point, however it also suggests that more studies remain to be done regarding how social stratification by race, gender and class continue to be relevant.
Table of Contents:
Wilson's Thesis
Sociology Of Minority Group Relations
From the Paper
"Additionally, recasting "minority group" in class-based terms opens new opportunities for addressing poverty. Instead of recycling race-based policies that benefit those who are already economically-secure, anti-poverty programs should look towards helping those who are economically-disadvantaged, regardless of their race. Wilson's suggestions included WPA-style work programs. To these suggestions, this paper also recommends daycare programs in poor neighborhoods, after-school and mentorship programs for older children and funding clinics for low-income urban residents. These combined programs would go a long way towards providing an economically-poor minority with resources to help them improve their life chances."
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African-American Songs, 2007.
An interpretation of the hidden meaning behind songs sung by African- American slaves.
2,586 words (approx. 10.3 pages), 10 sources, APA, $ 78.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses songs sung by African-Americans during the time of slavery. It interprets the meanings behind the songs "Follow the Drinking Gourd", "Wade in the Water"," Hoe Emma Hoe", "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" and "Roll, Jordan, Roll". The paper concludes that some songs were used to communicate during the time of the underground railroad, while others were coded and allowed the slaves to talk to one another and voice their opinions about the way that they were being treated without being punished.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
"Follow the Drinking Gourd"
"Wade in the Water"
"Hoe Emma Hoe"
"Swing Low, Sweet Chariot"
"Roll, Jordan, Roll"
Conclusion
From the Paper
"According to Greenway this particular song is actually a map for the local branch of the Underground Railroad which led slaves from Alabama and Mississippi into freedom in the North. According to the official website for the history of the Underground Railroad, the first line of the song, "When the sun comes back and the first quail calls" refers to winter and the southern migration of quail. The article explains that because most of the slaves coming from the south had to cross the Ohio River which was difficult to do most of the year, the leaders of the Underground Railroad found that it was easier to cross in winter. The winter crossing was easier because the river was frozen and people could walk across as opposed to having to swim."
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Ralph Ellison's "The Invisible Man", 2006.
This paper discusses Ralph Ellison's "The Invisible Man" and some of the critiques of this classic.
1,415 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Ralph Ellison's protagonist in his "The Invisible Man" is a young African-American male from the segregated South whose main goal is to overcome the invisibility of social responsibility in order to unite the black community. The author points out that many of the problems with which the narrator of "The Invisible Man" struggles still have not disappeared from the American culture. The paper relates that, while generally reviewing this book favorably, critics find it difficult to separate Ellison from the narrator because the book was written in the first person, making it somewhat confusing as to whether the narrator is feeling a particular way or if Ellison is feeling a certain way and projecting it onto the narrator.
From the Paper
"In the beginning of the book, this narrator finds himself expelled from the Southern Negro college that he was attending for accidentally showing one of the white trustees some of the reality of black life within the south, which included a whorehouse in a rural area and a farmer that was incestuous. The director of the college chastises him and tells him, "Why, the dumbest black bastard in the cotton patch knows that the only way to please a white man is to tell him a lie! What kind of an education are you getting around here?" Mystified by what has happened to him, the narrator decides to move up north, to New York City, where the truth that he perceives is again challenged. "
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