The Great Migration

Definition

The Great Migration refers to the mass movement of over six million African Americans from the rural Southern United States to urban areas in the North and West between the early 20th century and the 1970s. This significant demographic shift was driven by a combination of economic opportunities, social factors, and the desire to escape systemic racism and segregation in the South, leading to profound changes in cultural expression, including the emergence of unique art forms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Migration began around 1916 and continued until about 1970, with two main waves: the first wave (1916-1940) and the second wave (1941-1970).
2. Cities like Chicago, Detroit, New York City, and Philadelphia saw significant increases in their African American populations due to this migration.
3. This mass movement greatly influenced African American culture, contributing to the development of jazz, blues, and visual arts that reflected their experiences.
4. Many African American artists who emerged during this period drew inspiration from their journeys, struggles, and the urban environments they inhabited.
5. The Great Migration reshaped social dynamics in Northern cities, leading to both cultural flourishing and challenges such as racial tensions and competition for jobs.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Migration influence the cultural landscape of urban areas in the North?
  • The Great Migration significantly altered the cultural landscape of Northern cities by introducing a rich array of African American artistic expressions. As migrants settled in urban centers like Harlem and Chicago, they brought their traditions and experiences, leading to movements such as the Harlem Renaissance. This cultural awakening not only fostered new forms of music and art but also allowed for greater visibility of African American voices within American society.
• Analyze the socio-economic factors that motivated African Americans to participate in the Great Migration.
  • Economic opportunities were a primary motivator for many African Americans during the Great Migration. The North offered jobs in industries that were booming due to World War I and later World War II, attracting those seeking better wages than what was available in the agrarian South. Additionally, systemic racism and oppressive Jim Crow laws made life unbearable for many in Southern states. Thus, a combination of economic necessity and a desire for social freedom propelled this mass movement.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Great Migration on contemporary African American identity and artistic expression.
  • The long-term effects of the Great Migration are evident in contemporary African American identity and artistic expression. The migration not only created vibrant communities but also laid a foundation for ongoing dialogues about race, identity, and culture. The art forms that emerged from this period continue to influence modern artists who address themes of struggle, resilience, and cultural pride. Today’s African American artists draw upon this rich heritage while addressing current social issues, demonstrating how historical migrations have shaped ongoing narratives.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance: A cultural movement during the 1920s centered in Harlem, New York, characterized by an explosion of African American literature, music, art, and intellectualism.

Jim Crow Laws: State and local laws enacted in the Southern United States that enforced racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans from the late 19th century until the civil rights movement.

Urbanization: The process by which large numbers of people move from rural areas to urban areas, often leading to changes in demographics, culture, and economy.