African Americans Imitating Themselves

African Americans gained opportunities to move up in society by performing as racist caricatures of themselves. Although there were benefits, mostly economic, the move North perpetuated destructive stereotypes. It allowed many Blacks to move to the American North, but they still carried racist labels. It also created the idea that Blacks who moved to the North “failed” in city life and were better off and happier as slaves helping on farms. Nevertheless, the move many African Americans made to the North was a necessary step in gaining equality.