Great Migration

Definition

The Great Migration refers to the mass movement of African Americans from the rural South to urban areas in the North and West during the early to mid-20th century, particularly from around 1916 to 1970. This migration was fueled by factors such as the search for better economic opportunities, escaping Jim Crow laws, and the impacts of World War I and II, significantly shaping the cultural and literary landscape of America.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Migration is often divided into two waves: the first wave (1916-1940) and the second wave (1941-1970), each influenced by different socio-economic factors.
2. Many African Americans settled in industrial cities such as Chicago, Detroit, New York City, and Philadelphia, where they contributed significantly to the labor force.
3. The Great Migration led to significant demographic changes in both Northern cities and Southern states, reshaping cultural identities and social dynamics.
4. Literature and art flourished during this time, with many writers, musicians, and artists drawing inspiration from their experiences during the Great Migration.
5. The migration contributed to racial tensions in Northern cities as African Americans faced discrimination and competition for jobs with existing populations.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Migration influence literary movements in the United States during the early 20th century?
  • The Great Migration significantly influenced literary movements such as the Harlem Renaissance by providing a rich tapestry of experiences for writers and artists. Many authors documented their journeys and struggles, which reflected themes of identity, resilience, and cultural pride. This outpouring of creativity not only shaped African American literature but also impacted broader American culture by introducing new voices and perspectives.
• Discuss the economic factors that prompted African Americans to leave the South during the Great Migration.
  • Economic factors played a crucial role in driving African Americans from the South during the Great Migration. Many were seeking better job opportunities in northern industrial cities due to the availability of jobs in factories caused by World War I. The promise of higher wages and improved living conditions contrasted sharply with the poverty and limited opportunities under Jim Crow laws in the South, compelling many families to make the difficult decision to relocate.
• Evaluate the long-term social impacts of the Great Migration on American society and culture.
  • The long-term social impacts of the Great Migration on American society are profound. It not only transformed demographics in urban centers but also led to significant shifts in political power as African Americans began to influence local and national politics. Culturally, it catalyzed movements like the Harlem Renaissance, fostering an enduring legacy of African American art, literature, and music. Additionally, it laid groundwork for civil rights activism by creating new networks of support among displaced communities.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance: A cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s, marking a significant period of African American cultural pride and expression.

Jim Crow Laws: State and local laws that enforced racial segregation in the Southern United States, which contributed to the motivations behind the Great Migration.

Urbanization: The process of population movement from rural areas to cities, which was accelerated during the Great Migration as African Americans sought better living conditions and job opportunities.