Historical Context Flashcards
How were Africans seen/treated by the Europeans from the 15th to the 20th century?
European powers colonised African countries and exploited the continent for both resources and slave Labour. Africans were branded savages by the European invaders, their cultures dismissed as primitive, and subsequently othered.
What did African Americans attempt to establish during the early 20th century in the western world?
A new black cultural identity with movements such as the Harlem Renaissance.
What was The Black Panther Party?
It was a political activist group (1966-82) established initially to provide armed monitoring of police behaviour and prevent police brutality in the US. It was controversial, with many Panthers being arrested or killed in confrontations with police.
What is one of the most recognised incidents in history for displaying ‘Black Power’ on a global stage?
During their medal ceremony in the Olympic stadium in Mexico City, on October 16, 1968, two African-American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos each raised a black-gloved fist during the playing of the US national anthem, “The Star - Spangled Banner”.
While on the podium, Smith and Carlos, who had won gold and bronze medals respectively in the 200 meter running event of summer Olympics, turned to face the US flag and then kept their hands raised until the anthem had finished.
They were largely ostracized by the US sporting establishment and they were subject to criticism, receiving abuse and death threats to themselves and their families.
Expelled from Olympic City.
