| America, from its very beginning
as an English colony, was known as the land of opportunity. For those individuals willing
to roll-up their sleeves and work to earn the gifts America offered - freedom, equality,
and opportunity - came a status and satisfaction that they had risen beyond the political
oppression, religious persecution, poverty and social indignities suffered in their
homelands. For most of those who came to America to grab the American dream, the basis for
all that they achieved in their new land was rooted in the country’s greatest
gift...freedom. Tragically, America’s promise was dispensed unevenly. For those men, women and children brought to America from Africa against their will, the realities of life here sprang from the same elements others came to these shores to escape. America’s dream, for the black man and his family, was replaced by oppression, persecution, poverty and social indignities. And yet, his attachment to this new land, with a determination that he, too, should reap its rewards, was no less than other early immigrants who were proud to be called Americans. The black legacy to this nation, given willingly, is a culture rich in style, substance and music, that has become an integral part of what America is today. From slaves to free men, poets to politicians, and great men to those who support and nurture family and community, all are now part of that mosaic society that is proud to be known as American. The black experience in America spans almost 500 years stained with the blood, sweat and tears of those who only wanted for themselves, their families, and those who would follow them, simply that which was given to all other residents of this America...freedom. [Back] [Next] [Up] [New Search] 'Black History' segment written in June, 1998 by David Lodge |