Great Migration

Definition

The Great Migration refers to the mass movement of African Americans from the rural Southern United States to urban centers in the North and West during the early to mid-20th century. This migration was driven by a combination of economic opportunities, escaping racial discrimination, and seeking better living conditions, significantly transforming the social landscape of America.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Migration occurred in two major waves: the first from about 1916 to 1940 and the second from 1941 to 1970.
2. Approximately six million African Americans migrated northward during this period, seeking jobs in industrial cities like Chicago, Detroit, and New York.
3. The migration led to significant demographic shifts, with many cities experiencing rapid growth in their African American populations, altering social dynamics.
4. African Americans who moved north often faced discrimination in housing and employment despite seeking better opportunities.
5. Cultural movements such as the Harlem Renaissance flourished as a result of this migration, highlighting the contributions of African Americans to art, literature, and music.

Review Questions

• How did economic factors contribute to the Great Migration of African Americans from the South?
  • Economic factors played a crucial role in the Great Migration as African Americans sought better job opportunities in Northern industrial cities. Many left agricultural jobs in the South due to low wages and poor working conditions, while factories in the North were actively recruiting laborers during World War I and the subsequent economic boom. The promise of higher wages and more stable employment attracted millions, creating a significant demographic shift.
• Analyze how the Great Migration impacted social dynamics in Northern cities during the early 20th century.
  • The Great Migration significantly altered social dynamics in Northern cities as large numbers of African Americans settled in urban areas. This influx created vibrant communities with distinct cultural identities but also led to increased racial tensions and competition for jobs and housing. White residents often reacted with hostility, leading to racial conflicts and contributing to the establishment of segregated neighborhoods.
• Evaluate the long-term cultural impacts of the Great Migration on American society and identity.
  • The long-term cultural impacts of the Great Migration reshaped American society by fostering a rich cultural identity among African Americans. The movement contributed to the Harlem Renaissance, which showcased African American art, literature, and music on a national stage. Additionally, it laid the groundwork for future civil rights movements by increasing awareness of racial injustices and strengthening community solidarity among African Americans across the country.

Related terms

Jim Crow Laws:

State and local laws enforcing racial segregation in the Southern United States, which restricted African Americans' rights and opportunities.

Urbanization:

The process by which rural areas become urbanized as people migrate to cities, leading to increased population density and changes in lifestyle.

Harlem Renaissance:

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