Great Migration

Definition

The Great Migration refers to the mass movement of African Americans from the rural South to urban areas in the North and West during the early to mid-20th century, particularly between 1916 and 1970. This movement significantly influenced cultural, social, and economic landscapes, leading to the emergence of vibrant cultural expressions, especially in popular music genres such as jazz, blues, and later rock and roll.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Migration was driven by various factors, including the search for better economic opportunities and escape from racial discrimination and violence in the South.
2. During the Great Migration, over six million African Americans relocated to cities like Chicago, Detroit, New York, and Philadelphia, fundamentally changing the demographic landscape of these areas.
3. The migration led to the birth of influential cultural movements such as the Harlem Renaissance, which celebrated African American artistic expression through music, literature, and visual arts.
4. Musical genres like jazz and blues flourished during this period, heavily influenced by the experiences of African Americans who migrated and blended their Southern musical traditions with new urban influences.
5. The Great Migration not only transformed African American communities but also reshaped popular culture in America as these new musical forms began to influence mainstream music.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Migration impact the development of popular music genres in urban areas?
  • The Great Migration significantly contributed to the evolution of popular music genres as African Americans brought their rich musical traditions from the South to urban centers. In cities like Chicago and New York, genres such as jazz and blues emerged as musicians blended Southern styles with new influences from urban life. This fusion led to a vibrant music scene that not only reflected the experiences of African Americans but also laid the groundwork for future popular music forms.
• Discuss how the Great Migration contributed to cultural movements such as the Harlem Renaissance.
  • The Great Migration provided a foundation for cultural movements like the Harlem Renaissance by creating a critical mass of African Americans in urban areas. As they settled in cities like Harlem, they developed a unique cultural identity that celebrated their heritage through art, literature, and music. The influx of diverse talents led to an explosion of creativity that challenged prevailing racial stereotypes and promoted a sense of pride in African American culture.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Great Migration on American popular culture and music industries today.
  • The long-term effects of the Great Migration on American popular culture are profound and enduring. It not only paved the way for the acceptance and growth of genres like jazz, blues, and rock and roll but also laid the foundation for diverse musical influences that continue to shape contemporary music. The contributions of African American artists have become integral to mainstream culture, illustrating how this mass movement reshaped not just urban communities but also transformed America's musical landscape into a rich tapestry that reflects its diverse heritage.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance: A cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s, celebrating African American culture and influencing various art forms including music, literature, and visual arts.

Blues: A music genre originating from African American communities in the Deep South, characterized by its expressive lyrics and use of specific chord progressions, often reflecting themes of hardship and resilience.

Jazz: A music genre that originated in the African American communities of New Orleans in the late 19th century, known for its improvisational style and incorporation of diverse musical elements from African American folk traditions.