African American History
How have African Americans shaped the culture of the United States throughout history? Tracing the accomplishments and obstacles of African Americans from the slave trade through emancipation, and to the modern African diaspora, you will learn about the political, economic, social, religious, and cultural factors that have influenced African American life. In African American History, you’ll come face to face with individuals who changed the course of history and learn more about slavery, racism, and the Civil Rights Movement. You will also explore how the history of African Americans influences current events today
PROMPT FOR SYLLABUS
Develop a detailed syllabus for a comprehensive high school level African American History course. Include the main themes and topics that should be covered throughout the semester, along with specific readings, assignments, and projects that will help students gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Consider incorporating a variety of learning methods, such as group discussions, guest speakers, and multimedia resources, to ensure that students are engaged and invested in the material. Additionally, emphasize the cultural and societal significance of African American history and its impact on current events and contemporary issues.
Course Title: African American History
Course Description: This course explores the history and experiences of African Americans from the pre-colonial era to the present day. Students will study the successes and challenges of black Americans in various aspects of life, including politics, education, business, sports, and the arts. The course will also examine the impact of African American history on American society as a whole.
Course Goals:
1. To develop a comprehensive understanding of African American history and culture
2. To analyze the ways in which African American history has influenced contemporary American society
3. To explore the role of African Americans in American politics, culture, and economy
4. To cultivate critical thinking, research, and communication skills through various learning methods
5. To raise awareness of the ongoing issues of racial discrimination and inequality
Course Outline:
Unit 1: The Pre-Colonial Era to the Early 1800s
- The origins of slavery in America
- The transatlantic slave trade
- The slave life and resistance
- The impact of the Haitian Revolution
- The emergence of African American culture
- Readings:
- Olaudah Equiano, The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano
- Frederick Douglass, Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
Unit 2: The Civil War, Reconstruction, and Jim Crow Era
- The Civil War and Emancipation
- Reconstruction and its challenges
- The rise of segregation and discrimination under Jim Crow Laws
- The Harlem Renaissance and its impact
- The Great Migration
- Readings:
- W.E.B. DuBois, The Souls of Black Folk
- Booker T. Washington, Up From Slavery
Unit 3: Civil Rights and Black Power Movements
- The Civil Rights Movement and its leaders and goals
- Student activism and organizing
- The Black Power Movement and its influence
- African American women in the Civil Rights Movement
- Readings:
- Malcolm X, The Autobiography of Malcolm X
- Martin Luther King Jr., Letter from Birmingham Jail
Unit 4: Contemporary Issues
- African Americans and Politics
- Black Lives Matter movement and police brutality
- Challenges in urban centers
- The impact of African Americans on popular culture
- The future of African American communities
- Readings:
- Ta-Nehisi Coates, Between the World and Me
- Michelle Alexander, The New Jim Crow
Assignments and Projects:
- Research paper on a key figure in African American history
- Group project on the Harlem Renaissance
- Oral presentation on a contemporary issue affecting the African American community
- Blog post analyzing the impact of African American culture on American society
- Historical analysis of a current event affecting African Americans
Learning Methods:
- Discussions and debates on readings
- Guest speakers
- Field trips to relevant museums and institutions
- Multimedia resources including videos and podcasts
- Interactive assignments and projects using technology
- Student-led group work
Grading:
- Group project (20%)
- Blog post (20%)
- Research paper (20%)
- Historical analysis (20%)
- Oral presentation (20%)