Great Migration

Definition

The Great Migration refers to the mass movement of African Americans from the rural South to urban centers in the North and West during the early to mid-20th century, primarily between 1916 and 1970. This migration was largely driven by the search for better economic opportunities, escape from racial discrimination, and the desire for a better quality of life. The migration had profound effects on urbanization patterns, cultural dynamics, and demographic changes in various regions, including Texas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Migration saw approximately 6 million African Americans move from the rural South to cities like Chicago, Detroit, New York, and Houston, significantly altering demographic landscapes.
2. In Texas, cities like Dallas and Houston experienced population booms due to this migration, leading to increased cultural diversity and economic growth.
3. African American migrants played a crucial role in filling labor shortages during World War I, contributing to Texas's industrial development.
4. The migration also led to the establishment of vibrant African American communities and cultural institutions in urban areas, enriching the cultural fabric of Texas.
5. The Great Migration resulted in significant political changes as African Americans began to assert their rights and influence in local and national politics, leading to increased civil rights activism.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Migration impact urban development in Texas cities during the early 20th century?
  • The Great Migration significantly impacted urban development in Texas cities by increasing the population and workforce. As African Americans moved into cities like Houston and Dallas, they contributed to labor shortages filled during World War I. This influx not only stimulated economic growth but also led to the establishment of new neighborhoods and cultural hubs, ultimately shaping the social and economic landscape of Texas.
• Discuss the role that Jim Crow laws played as a factor in driving the Great Migration.
  • Jim Crow laws enforced racial segregation and discrimination in the South, creating oppressive conditions for African Americans. These laws restricted their access to quality education, jobs, and public services while fostering an environment of violence and intimidation. Such circumstances pushed many African Americans to seek better opportunities elsewhere, prompting their migration to urban centers where they hoped to find greater freedom and equality.
• Evaluate the long-term cultural effects of the Great Migration on Texas society.
  • The long-term cultural effects of the Great Migration on Texas society were profound. The influx of African Americans into urban areas fostered vibrant communities rich in cultural expression through music, art, literature, and social activism. Events like the Harlem Renaissance resonated with Texas migrants, influencing local culture. Over time, this migration laid the groundwork for civil rights movements in Texas as these communities organized politically and socially to demand equality, leaving a lasting legacy on Texas's cultural landscape.

Related terms

Jim Crow Laws:

State and local laws enforcing racial segregation in the Southern United States, which contributed to the push factors of the Great Migration.

Harlem Renaissance: A cultural movement in the 1920s that celebrated African American cultural expression and was influenced by the influx of migrants to urban centers.

New Deal:

A series of programs and policies implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Great Depression that provided economic relief and jobs, affecting migration patterns and urban development.