Abstract This paper describes the daily lives and culture of the black American Muslim and Nation of Islam communities. The paper defines these groups and their customs and religious rituals. It illustrates the historical leaders of the black Muslim movements, including in depth biographies of Malcolm X and Louis Farrakhan. The paper discusses the missionary and racist elements in these movements.
From the Paper "Religion is important to many Americans not simply because they believe that their faith will bring them to a better world in the afterlife or because it will guide their actions as a moral and good individual here on earth but also because it provides them with a sense of self-identity. Religion tells people who they are, how they are different from other people, to which community they belong. This may be especially true for black Muslims. This paper examines the black Muslim and Nation of Islam movements within the larger context of religious life in contemporary America and the context of the daily lives of black Americans as we enter the 21st century.
It may be helpful for us toe begin with some basic definitions. Black Muslims are simply those followers of a predominantly black religious movement in the United States who profess Islam as their faith. Not all of the followers of this movement are in fact black, although nearly all of them are black or have a black member of their family (such as a spouse or child) who is involved. The movement encompasses not only spiritual and liturgical aspects of life but political and wide-ranging cultural as well, including an emphasis on economic cooperation and self-sufficiency for black communities and individuals. "
Tags:black, muslim, nation, islam, regilion, contemporary, america, identity, 21st, century, united, states, spiritual, political, cultural, farrakhan, malcom, x
Abstract This paper explains that, during the black civil rights movement, some leaders favored integrationism, which meant that these activists were willing to work with sympathetic whites to achieve their goal of civil rights. The paper points out that other leaders favored African-American nationalism, which meant the opposite of integrationism. The paper relates that, during the first ten years, the movement was mainly integrationist, as modeled by Martin Luther King Jr. King, who favored using non-violent methods, such as sit-ins, to oppose discrimination. The author continues that, by around 1966, the Black Power movement with activists, such as Malcolm X, who favored black self-determination, was growing. The paper states that the African-American nationalism has been accused of being in favor of black supremacy.
From the Paper "There is a sad but interesting common factor that is shared by the integrationist movement and African American Nationalism. Although integrationism was much more moderate than African American Nationalism, both were threatening enough to some people in the USA that the most prominent leaders of both movements were assassinated. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968 in Memphis, Tennessee; while Malcolm X was assassinated in 1965, at the Audubon Ballroom in Harlem."
Tags: whites sit-in, malcolm x, black history, king
Abstract This paper takes a look at the accomplishments of the Black Muslims offering an alternative to the peaceful, pacifistic teachings of leaders such as Martin Luther King, Jr. The author of this paper shows that the Nation of Islam has played a major role in shaping the ideas and destinies of those of African descent, regardless of their religion.
From the Paper "Brooklyn Congressman Major R. Owens, referring mainly to Black Muslims, in 1994, stated, ?There are a lot of frustrated, angry, bitter people who are looking for a leader. In some cases they are looking for something to hate.?[1] This sentiment strongly reflects the origins and ideas of Islamic African-Americans throughout their existence. Members of The Nation of Islam, and its factions, believe strongly in black pride, nationalism, and separation."
Abstract This paper examines why so many Afro-Americans turned from Christianity to become Black Muslims in America and how the Nation of Islam offered these disgruntled individuals a different way of dealing with discrimination and hate.
From the Paper "The Nation of Islam offered some African Americans a sharp contrast to the mainstream civil rights movement. Specifically beginning in the late 1920's, and continuing up into the 1960's, blacks living mainly in northern cities across America abandoned many aspects of their previous lives to embrace an organization and ideology with "radical" ways of acting and thinking. Why would a person become a Black Muslim? The answer is found in considering the types of individuals who accepted the Nation and the atmosphere which surrounded them. Anger and frustration can be found in the hearts of many converts to the Nation of Islam. Faced with discrimination and hate, some blacks chose extreme, violent separation over the more readily accepted non-violent call for integration."
Abstract In addition to looking at the reasons for the disintegration of the Black Panthers, this paper also traces the origins of the Party, examines how and why it started, describes its program and activities, the FBI's campaign against the Black Panthers, the trial of Black Panther members in court, the role of women in BPP, and the impact of the Party on the country.
Table of Contents
The Black Panther Party
Origin
Why was the Party Started?
The Ten-Point Program
Activities of the Black Panthers
War Against the Panthers
Black Panthers in Court
Black Panther Women
Alliances and Coalitions
Mistakes Made by the Black Panthers
Impact of the Party on the Country
From the Paper "The black community of Oakland, California was greatly perturbed due to the failure of Southern white policemen to provide adequate protection for its black residents and the increasing incidents of police brutality targeted at the blacks. The organizers of the Panthers, therefore, aimed to gain justice for black people and dedicated themselves to defend the black community from racist police oppression and brutality. Besides being considered as the perpetrators of injustice and violence against the black community, the police was perceived by the Panthers as the representatives of the status quo and the "establishment" who implemented its anti-Black agenda. Since the Panthers believed that they were fighting the "status quo" the BPP considered itself to be a "revolutionary" party, which was committed to wage a class struggle to overthrow the existing order. (Harris 169)"
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses that throughout history the Black Plague has emerged in some societies and then laid dormant, only to become active again, killing massive numbers of populations. The writer points out that primarily carried by rats and the fleas that feed from them, the Black Plague has been cited as existing in a growing number of cases in modern times, although its roots began centuries earlier. The writer notes that there have been several pandemics of the Black Plague, which is the most devastating infection that the world has ever known. The writer maintains that statistics indicate that the Black Plague still exists and is increasing in the numbers of the population that it kills each year. The writer concludes that it is for this reason society, medical science and those that lead nations must begin to act on the plague in order to save millions more within societies today and in the future.
Outline:
Introduction
Beginning of the Plague
Emergence
Affects on Society
How it Spread
Second Mass Occurrence
Origins
Countries it Impacted
Affects on Society
New Types
London
Appearance in London
How it Impacted Society
How it Ended
Modern Society
Existence of the Plague in the 20th Century
Existence of the Plague in Modern Society
Statistics
Conclusion
From the Paper "In the 1300s the Black Plague emerged in Asia and quickly spread throughout Europe and once again in Italy. This pandemic was directly related to the trade that existed between these countries, as it followed the waterways that carried goods from one port to another. In this pandemic the plague was capable of taking in excess of 20 million lives and adversely impacted all civilizations that it spread to. This occurred through the inability of farmers to harvest their crops and workers to produce goods that were required to maintain businesses. Bishop contends that the affect of the plague on the populations where it existed included families abandoning their children, physicians refusing to care for patients and the Catholic Church proclaiming massive forgiveness for all who died because of the lack of clergy to hear the confessions of the dead."
Abstract This paper analyzes the central theme of "Black Elk Speaks," while also considering its most significant images. The paper explains how Black Elk speaks not only for himself but for the fate of his tribe and also discusses his failure to achieve peace for his nation.
From the Paper "In the book "Black Elk Speaks" John Neihardt tells the story of a Lakota Sioux holy man and how his visionary experiences impacted both his Native American nation and the world in general. Indeed the book is not simply Black Elk's personal story or biography but instead serves as an examination of the fate of his tribe as well."
Abstract The paper muddles on the evolution of the African American struggle coupled with civil right movements formulated- specifically the Black Panther Party- and focuses on the question of what the organization is, where it originated and spread, and why it was so popular.
From the Paper Amid the turbulent struggle for equal rights for the black community in America numerous organizations and arenas emerged as potential facilitators of that laudable goal. The struggle was long and arduous, and various approaches arose as potential modalities to pursue the end most effectively. The Black Panther Party, which was established in 1966, was one such tactical approach. In its brief sojourn on the American scene, it attracted mega attention and an almost mythical status and reputation. Actions to cope with the potential repercussions of the Black Panther Party were numerous, and often violated associated constitutional norms within the American psyche for fairness and legal protection. Nevertheless to some powers that be on at that time, no more dangerous cadre of proponents of black rights existed then the Black Panther Party (Summers, 1993, 21). To those who opposed the methods, philosophy, and personas of the Black Panther Party, the need to crush the organization and nullify their influence within the societal complex of the United States was considered a crusade for the survival of this country itself. To truly analyze and come to terms with the importance and problematic issue of the Black Panther Party, it is necessary to review in some depth the overall complex involved in the struggle for black liberation in this country. The Black Panther Party occupies a decided niche in this puzzle, but it did not exist in a vacuum. It is a clear product and reaction to what preceded it.
Abstract This paper explores the various nations of Africa, including Ghana, Egypt, Sudan, Chad, Uganda, Ethiopia, and others. The paper looks at the significant events that shaped some of their histories, as well as the political and economic consequences of these events.
Contents
Introduction
Africa's Post-Independent State
Egypt's Struggle for Independence
Political Struggles in Africa
Shifting to Democracy
Conclusion
From the Paper "There are many reasons for Africa's current state of political instability. For one, continuous rivalry between tribal units is a constant source of disunity (Cooper, 2002). For most of the 19th and early 20th century Africa had lived under colonial rule of the Europeans. Because the European leaders left Africa immediately after it gained independence, many African leaders are relatively inexperienced. Also, many leaders are greedy, corrupt and act entirely based on self-interest. Basically, because multi-party rule encouraged ethnic conflict, one party controlled most African states. This has largely contributed to Africa's political instability."
Abstract This paper examines how James Cone believes that if blacks, particularly African-Americans, don't wake up and change the traditional American image of Jesus, they will probably never grasp the true philosophy and mission of Jesus. It discusses how African-Americans must see Jesus as a black man that endured the struggle and how it is the duty of black preachers, pastors and theologians to advocate black theology, which includes the black image of Jesus, for the sake and survival of the African-American experience.
From the Paper "When one begins to think about God, questions arise as one lacks significant knowledge of God. When one begins to engage in such a dialogue, or entertains such questions, one has clearly entered the community of theology. The articles states: "The attempt to think about God leads immediately to a host of related question which are included under the term theology. First, there is the question of mans relationship to God, the ultimate source of things? Then we must ask about revelation to God, that is, how does man know what God is like? If God must reveal himself where and how is he revealed?" These are prospective questions that man can't escape when thinking about God or in dialogue about God. "
Abstract This paper examines the collection of essays known as "Black Witness to the Apostolic Faith" edited by David Shannon and Gayraud S. Wilmore about black and apostolic churches. It looks at how the purpose of the book is to find common ground among black Apostolic Christians and to expand their influence in the Christian and non-Christian world. It discusses how the editors believe that black Christian writers and theologians have not had the attention they deserve in the world of Christianity partly as a result of the racism of the past, which has left much power in white hands and less power in black hands. It evaluates how it seeks to take away the distortions of the Christian message which blacks were given by whites in the days of slavery.
From the Paper "In other words, in the bigger picture it should be all Christians, black and white and others, who come together in their common faith. The "confession' the authors write about is not only confession of sins but confession of faith, and that common confession can bring people together only if all sins are confessed and only if the confessor sees God as bigger than his own fears and prejudices. Wilmore is not saying that blacks should hate whites, but that whites must look at the past and accept what they did, just as blacks have had to look at the past and face what was done to them. To these Christian writers, it is God and Jesus Christ Who have allowed them to survive that past and to come out of their experiences with love and forgiveness in their hearts."
Abstract Compares Alain Locke's and Carolyn F. Gerald's proposals for a pseudo-militant black arts movement. Looks at how both authors view the self-image of the average black person as one that has been forced upon them by the white majority. The paper goes on to discuss how both authors see the need to change and recreate the black self-image, and their differing views on how to approach the task of creating this new image.
From the Paper "The main difference between Locke and Gerald is the way in which they approach the new image-making task at hand. For Locke, it is entirely a creative process. He seeks to find whatever meaning in white culture that ought to be (for black culture has, after all, left parts of its meanings floating about in white space, such as musical influences). He additionally seeks to create new meanings that can interact healthily with white culture, to create a new American culture. Gerald is far more nihilistic. Her focus is more on destruction and the (justifiable) wrath of her people. Attempted culture creation in the presence of the white discourse has only led to failure and frustration. The white discourse must be destroyed."
Tags:black, artists/writers, global, race-identification, black, people, black, literature
Abstract This is an informative paper on what exactly a black hole is and what scientists have theorized about black holes. The paper examines the formation of black holes, past research on black holes and pondering questions still unanswered today.
From the Paper "Ever since you were old enough to know what the sky, moon and stars were, you have always imagined what is actually up there? One of the most fascinating ideas of all is the mysterious and scary thought of a BLACK HOLE! This is perfectly normal because even today scientists are still pondering over that same question ? what is a black hole and does it exist? Theories that at one time seemed reasonable are now laughed at, our skies hold an infinite space which we will never be able to explore, as a result, our questions will be infinite as well."
Abstract This paper discusses how the book "The Black Jacobins", by C. L. R. James, is an not only account of the Haitian Revolution, it is a close and personal account of the only slave revolt that ultimately resulted in the founding of a black republic in the heart of the Caribbean. By closely relating the French Revolution with the Haitian Revolution, roughly from 1791 to 1803, it looks at how James is able to show the reader how the two events effected each other. It shows how James examines the struggle for independence while providing an intimate look at those involved, especially the slaves. James offers a perspective of black history that empowers black people, illustrating how they responded to and overcame slavery, especially under the leadership of Toussaint L'Ouverture.
From the Paper "Class structure was important to James, as he believed it was based more on economic needs rather than racial divisions; the economic forces proved to be more influential than the racial boundaries did. James admits that this did not erase the presence of racism, it simply points out that greed for economic and class status were often considered more important than race and can thus influence race prejudice. However, because the elite continually tries to re-implement the order and establish their elite class over and over again, according to James. Within the slave community, James also distinguishes an "upper" class of servants. These servants cultivated themselves and learned as much as they could. From their unique position, they could see the unfairness of society; their knowledge would later help them serve their people on a higher level."
Abstract In this paper, Neihardt provides a different historical perspective of pioneer history through the perspective of Black Elk, a Native American. The paper examines how this anthropological dictation not only provides evidence of the genocide and racism that Europeans forced upon the Indians, but also how much more noble and moral Black Elk was though his tradition and honor of treaties. The writer proposes that by getting another perspective to the often-biased American history of how Native Americans are seen, the story of Black Elk resonates the truth of happened during pioneering expansion from the voice of the defeated.
From the Paper "In this book review one can analyze the various anthropological dictations of the Native American, Black Elk, who was 'interviewed' by the European John Neihardt. By examining various aspects of the expansionist policy of the Europeans who moved into the Dakota tribal region, one can realize an Indian perspective of how they were treated in the ensuing wars. In essence, Neihardt acts as a anthropological investigator that discovers the non-European point of view of the "Indian" Wars' with Black Elk. The purpose of the John Neihardt's book Black Elk Speaks is to give validity to the Native American side of the story when westward expansion was at is peak in the Dakota regions of the Old West. Neihardt's mission is to convey a different story of early pioneer European expansion than those found in American history books."
