From oppression to resistance: African American history

This course on African American history explores the struggle for freedom and civil rights from 1865 to the 1940s, highlighting key figures and the persistence of white supremacy.For over a century, African Americans have struggled against the pervasive oppression and institutional racism that has shaped their lives in the United States. From slavery and Jim Crow segregation to systemic discrimination and police brutality, the story of African American history is a testament to the incredible resilience and courage of Black people in the face of overwhelming obstacles. This course takes a deep dive into the African American struggle for freedom and civil rights. You will explore the myriad ways in which white Americans disenfranchised and discriminated against their fellow Black countrymen after the Civil War. You will learn about the key Black figures who fought for equality and justice, from Black Nationalist Marcus Garvey to socialist activist A. Philip Randolph.

This course also examines how Reconstruction failed to establish a more equitable society in the South and how extrajudicial violence swept across American cities, destroying the lives of so many Black men, women, and children who were searching for safety, security, and opportunity. You will investigate the pivotal court decisions that rolled back key African American rights and see how discrimination and segregation impacted Black athletes and soldiers. And you will study the commitments to white supremacy that loomed in the background of politics and public policy, from Reconstruction right up until the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s.

This course is designed for anyone interested in African American history and the ongoing struggle for racial justice in the United States. By the end of the course, you will have a greater understanding of the challenges and triumphs of African Americans throughout history and the impact of systemic racism on contemporary society.

What you’ll achieve:

• A deeper understanding of the African American struggle for freedom and civil rights from 1865 to the 1940s;
• Knowledge of key Black figures who fought for equality and justice, including Marcus Garvey and A. Philip Randolph;
• An understanding of how white supremacy persisted in many forms after slavery and how it impacted African Americans’ lives;
• An appreciation for the incredible resilience and courage of Black people in the face of overwhelming obstacles;
• A greater understanding of the challenges and triumphs of African Americans throughout history.

Who should take this course:

• Anyone interested in African American history;
• Students of history, sociology, political science, and related fields;
• Educators looking to expand their knowledge and understanding of African American history;
• Individuals looking to deepen their understanding of systemic racism and social justice issues;
• Community organizers and activists seeking to learn more about the history of resistance and struggle for Black liberation.