History of Race

Historical Report on Race: African Americans

Frederik Seixas

ETH 125

Jennifer Friedrich, Ph.D.

01/26/2014

It is an undeniable fact that, throughout history, the African American community has dealt with its fair share of discrimination. This is of particular historical significance to those living in the United States because it is an essential component of the founding of this country, and will continue to be a reoccurring theme in the curricula of educational institutions and in the headlines of current events. Historically, Africans were first brought into the Jamestown colony in 1619 for the purpose of harvesting tobacco (Slavery in America, 2012). Their arrival had a huge influence on the course of American history, so much so that it is no exaggeration to say that, without the presence of the African American people, our country would not be what it is today. Unfortunately theirs is a tale of enslavement and mistreatment, and with current-day discrimination still posing a threat to this particular race, it is impossible to deny that African Americans have weathered some of the most horrifying struggles possible. In many ways, the battle for freedom and equality is still very much alive, and, as a historian, I simply cannot ignore my duty to share the story of one of the most resilient races our country as ever known.

Let us begin with some historical references on the matter of the African American community's experience in the United States. In terms of politicAfrican Americans were enlisted and were forced to join the Army when Civil War came but refused to because of a law that was being upheld to keep them from enlisting. This was changed when President Lincoln submitted the Final Proclamation. There were still discrimination and segregation even though African Americans were already allowed to enlist in the army (The Civil War and Emancipation, 2012). There have been many concerns regarding African Americans participating in political causes...