The 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 between 1916 and 1970, driven by a search for better economic opportunities and escaping racial segregation. This migration significantly influenced American culture, economy, and society, leading to the emergence of vibrant African American communities in cities, which fostered cultural movements and artistic expressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Migration is generally divided into two waves: the first wave (1916-1940) saw approximately 1.6 million African Americans moving to northern cities, while the second wave (1941-1970) involved another 5 million migrating to cities across the U.S.
2. Major destinations for migrants included cities like Chicago, Detroit, New York, and Philadelphia, where they sought jobs in factories and other industries.
3. This migration contributed to significant demographic changes in American cities, leading to increased cultural diversity and the establishment of thriving African American neighborhoods.
4. The Great Migration played a crucial role in shaping the civil rights movement by raising awareness of systemic racism and fostering a sense of community among African Americans in urban areas.
5. Artistic and cultural expressions that emerged during this period were heavily influenced by the experiences of migration, including literature, music, and visual arts reflecting both struggles and achievements.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Migration influence cultural developments such as the Harlem Renaissance?
  • The Great Migration significantly contributed to the Harlem Renaissance by bringing a large number of African Americans to urban centers where they could freely express their cultural identities. As migrants settled in cities like New York, they created vibrant communities that fostered artistic expression through literature, music, and visual arts. The influx of talent and creativity played a key role in making Harlem a cultural hub during the 1920s, showcasing African American achievements and challenging stereotypes.
• Discuss the impact of Jim Crow laws on the decisions made by individuals during the Great Migration.
  • Jim Crow laws created oppressive conditions for African Americans in the South, enforcing segregation and limiting economic opportunities. These discriminatory practices were a major driving force behind the Great Migration as individuals sought to escape systemic racism and find better lives in northern cities. The desperation for freedom from oppression pushed many to leave their homes in search of employment, education, and social justice elsewhere.
• Evaluate how the Great Migration shaped modern-day African American identities and societal structures within urban settings.
  • The Great Migration has had lasting effects on modern-day African American identities by establishing strong cultural centers within urban environments that continue to thrive today. As communities formed during this migration solidified their presence in cities, they developed unique cultural expressions that reflect their shared history. This movement also laid groundwork for future civil rights activism by creating a politically engaged populace that continues to advocate for social justice and equality within these urban settings.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance:

A cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s, celebrated African American culture and creativity.

Jim Crow Laws:

State and local laws enacted in the Southern United States that enforced racial segregation and disenfranchised African Americans from the late 19th century until the civil rights movement.

New Negro Movement:

A term used to describe a period during the early 20th century when African Americans embraced racial pride, cultural expression, and political activism following the Great Migration.