Blacks lived in America for hundreds of years.

Black culture is a blend of African, American, and African American ways.

Blacks worked & fought side by side with Whites, but they were separated in other parts of life.

Blacks, therefore, created their own culture.

Today, Black Culture is woven into every part of the fabric of American Culture and many African American ways and contributions are embraced worldwide.

Slaves brought many African ways to the New World

 African women wrapped their heads in kerchiefs

African women braided their hair in rows and patterns

Out of respect, African children were taught to look down when being spoken to by older persons.

Ancient Egyptians developed writing, collected scientific and technical knowledge in Libraries

Ancient Egyptians studied astronomy, geology, geometry and invented a 365-day calendar.

Africans brought with them the gift of math, science, engineering, and invention.

Storytelling was always to entertain, teach values, traditions, and pass on culture.

In Africa there were tales about a clever rabbity the got the best of bigger animals.

In America the clever rabbit stood for the slave, while the animal he outwits was the slave’s master.

Slaves’ inventions were stolen by Slave Masters

Counting Games: “One potato, two potato, three potato, four…”

Hand-Clapping Games: “Miss Mary Mack…all dressed in black…with silver & gold buttons up and down her back..”

Riddles were Popular: “kicking, but not high…"

Hand Play: “High Five”, and many others.

African art, music, religion, and dance all work together in celebrating the traditional way of life.

Blacks made music a part of their daily activities in both Africa and America.

Many musical instruments are used in Africa but most Africans dance by the drumbeats.  

Many dances in which people engage today had their beginnings in Africa.

Africans sang “call and response” songs.

Blacks gave the world Negro Spirituals:

Blues

Jazz

Rhythm & Blues

Rap & Hip-Hop

Rock & Roll

Black Gospels

The sounds all came from African roots

African American music is popular around the world.

Black music is the world’s music!