Great Migration
The movement of 6 million African Americans out of the Southern US to the Northeast, Midwest and West
Real World Example
The Great Migration was important because it allowed African Americans to escape the harsh racial segregation and limited economic opportunities of the South for better jobs and living conditions in other parts of the U.S. This movement highlighted ongoing racial tensions and inequalities, as African Americans faced discrimination in housing and employment even in the North. These tensions are still relevant today as discussions about racial equality and justice continue. The Great Migration influenced the cultural landscape, leading to the Harlem Renaissance and enriching American culture with new art, music, and literature. For an average person today, understanding this event helps in recognizing the roots of cultural diversity in cities and appreciating the ongoing struggle for racial equality and justice in everyday life.
