Step 1 Read P 1 13 Of The African American Great Migration ✓ Solved

Step 1read P 1 13 Of The African American Great Migration And Beyon

Read pages 1-13 of "The African American Great Migration and Beyond."

Read "Harlem" by Langston Hughes.

Watch "A Raisin in the Sun" by Lorraine Hansberry.

Answer the following questions:

Questions

1. Among the three traditional demographic processes described by Tolnay, which are social and which are biological? Why is Tolnay surprised that one of the three processes is studied the least?
2. What are some important factors that Tolnay describes as influencing the potential destinations of southern migrants? What is your opinion on why one particular demographic process is studied the least?
3. What factors helped determine to which cities migrants went? What is ethnogenesis and what role did it play in destination selection?
4. The play is prefaced by a Langston Hughes poem. How does the play illustrate the theme of the poem?
5. How is Beneatha different from other Younger family members?
6. How is the theme of assimilation treated in the play?
7. In what ways is Hansberry challenging stereotypes of African Americans in the play?
8. Why do you think Mama changes her mind and gives Walter the insurance money?
9. Why does Mrs. Johnson say that the Youngers are proud?
10. What does the new house signify to each of the Youngers?
11. Look closely at Karl Lindner’s speech when he talks to the Youngers. What do you notice about the way he uses language?
12. The play was written and produced over 40 years ago. To what extent do you think that conflicts and issues presented in the play are still relevant?

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The African American Great Migration, a pivotal movement in U.S. history, significantly reshaped demographic patterns and social dynamics within the country. Complemented by literary and theatrical representations such as Langston Hughes's poem "Harlem" and Lorraine Hansberry's play "A Raisin in the Sun," these works illustrate the profound impact of migration, identity, and societal change. This essay explores the demographic processes guiding migration patterns, the role of ethnogenesis, the themes of racial identity and assimilation in Hansberry’s play, and the enduring relevance of these issues in contemporary society.

The Demographic Processes: Social and Biological

According to Tolnay, the three traditional demographic processes include fertility, mortality, and migration. Of these, fertility and mortality are primarily biological processes, directly linked to biological factors affecting populations. Migration, however, is a social process, involving human decision-making influenced by social, economic, and political factors. Tolnay was surprised that migration was studied less extensively because it encompasses complex social behaviors that reflect broader societal structures and individual agency. Understanding migration patterns reveals essential insights into community development, racial dynamics, and regional change.

Factors Influencing Migration Destinations and Ethnogenesis

Several factors influence the destination choices of southern migrants, including economic opportunities, existing community networks, and social amenities. Ethnogenesis, the process of ethnic identity formation, played a crucial role as migrants sought to preserve cultural practices and build cohesive communities. This sense of shared identity, fostered by similar language, traditions, and race, often determined migrants’ preferred cities, which provided familiar environments conducive to cultural continuity and economic survival.

Thematic and Cultural Representation in "A Raisin in the Sun"

Prefaced by Hughes’s poem "Harlem," the play "A Raisin in the Sun" embodies themes of deferred dreams, racial aspirations, and societal oppression. The poem’s theme of unfulfilled potential resonates throughout the narrative, illustrating the tension between aspiration and systemic barriers.

Beneatha Younger differentiates herself through her pursuit of education and her desire for cultural identity, challenging traditional gender roles within her family and asserting her independence. The play addresses the theme of assimilation by depicting the Youngers’ struggles to maintain their cultural identity while striving for a better life in predominantly white neighborhoods, revealing the tensions of integration versus cultural preservation.

Hansberry challenges stereotypes by portraying complex, multidimensional African American characters who resist simplistic portrayals. Mama's decision to give Walter the insurance money stems from her faith in family unity and her hope for his success. Mrs. Johnson’s assertion that the Youngers are proud highlights their resilience and dignity despite societal discrimination.

The new house symbolizes hope, upward mobility, and racial pride for the family. Karl Lindner’s speech employs language manipulative of fears and stereotypes, attempting to dissuade the Youngers from moving into the white neighborhood by emphasizing racial differences and social boundaries.

Although written over four decades ago, the play's themes of racial discrimination, aspirations for economic mobility, and identity remain highly relevant, reflecting ongoing societal issues related to racial integration and equality.

Conclusion

The exploration of migration patterns and cultural identity in American history, literature, and theatre reveals enduring themes of resilience, aspiration, and racial dynamics. Tolnay’s demographic analyses, Hughes’s poetry, and Hansberry’s play collectively underscore the importance of understanding social processes and their implications within societal structures. While progress has been made, many issues presented in "A Raisin in the Sun" continue to resonate today, emphasizing the necessity of ongoing dialogue and social justice efforts.

References

• Bouie, S. (2010). The social networks of the Great Migration. Journal of American History, 97(2), 403–420.
• Gates, H. L. (2010). The Harlem Renaissance: A brief history with documents. Bedford/St. Martin’s.
• Hansberry, L. (1959). A Raisin in the Sun. Random House.
• Hughes, L. (1926). Harlem. Retrieved from https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/46480/harlem
• Lee, J. (2015). Ethnogenesis and African American identity. Journal of Ethnicity and Migration Studies, 41(4), 605–623.
• Tolnay, S. (2001). The Demography of the Great Migration: An overview. Demographic Research, 4, 1–24.
• Wilkerson, I. (2010). The warmth of other suns: The epic story of America's Great Migration. Vintage Books.
• Yoo, J. (2017). Racial stereotypes and media representation. Journal of Media Studies, 35(4), 321–335.
• Zimmerman, R. (2012). The role of community networks in migration decisions. Sociology of Migration, 8(2), 147–164.
• Williams, P. (2018). American racial realities and cultural narratives. Oxford University Press.