African American History

The history, politics and cultures of people of African decent is known as Black Studies. The four major movements that lead to the establishment of Black Studies curriculum at Colleges and Universities are: the Civil Rights Movement, the Free Speech Movement, the Anti-Vietnam War Movement and the Black Power Movement. [1] Essentially, the Civil Rights Movement sought to break down barriers of legal segregation in public places, achieve equality and justice for blacks and organize blacks into a self-conscious social force capable of defining, defending, and advancing their interests. Though there were many trials and tribulations along the way, many blacks were determined to be equal and they were determined to have a voice. They were lead by notable African Americans such as Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Jesse Jackson and a host of other individuals.
  The Free Speech Movement was started by a group of white students on the campus of UC Berkeley. They were protesting against the unresponsive character of the university and they demanded civil rights on campus. The Anti-War Movement was initiated by a white student with African American followers and they protested against the Vietnam War. They were opposed to the war because of the government’s war against Third World liberation, the threat to draft blacks and other males of colors and fighting an unjust war for a nation depriving blacks of basic civil and human rights. [2] The struggle soon brought change to the university due to student’s power and activism.
  Lastly, was the Black Power Movement which marked the beginning of a series of revolts across the country through the latter parts of the 60’s. [3] The movement brought about relations of power in society, the pervasive character of racism and the need to establish order and create a better society. They stressed the importance of self-determination and an education that was meaningful to the students, useful to the community, and reflective of...