YouTube Objectives For Students

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Objectives: Students will be introduced to African American History. They will learn the impact African societies were the foundation of African American History and the Black experience in America. Students will watch the documentary the Great Mighty Walk. After watching the documentary students will summary of the documentary. Use examples from the documentary to support your summary. Also, include why the Great Mighty Walk is essential to learning African American History and name some of the contributions of Dr. John H. Clarke.

Paper For Above instruction

The documentary "The Great Mighty Walk" serves as a profound exploration of the African roots that underpin the history and culture of African Americans. It emphasizes the significance of understanding African societies, their contributions, and the profound influence they have had on shaping the Black experience in America. Watching this documentary allows students to connect historical facts with cultural pride, identity, and heritage, fostering a deeper appreciation for the resilience and contributions of African peoples and their descendants.

In the documentary, one of the central themes is the rich history of African civilizations such as Egypt, Mali, Ghana, and Songhai. These societies were not only centers of trade, art, and learning but also exemplified advanced political and social structures. For example, the depiction of the Mali Empire highlighted the wealth of resources like gold and the sophistication of their administration, which counters stereotypical narratives of African societies as primitive. The documentary showcases artifacts, murals, and oral histories that illustrate the grandeur of these civilizations, reinforcing the idea that African history is a cornerstone of the broader African American experience.

Furthermore, "The Great Mighty Walk" underscores the importance of reclaiming African identity and emphasizing cultural continuity. It discusses the African diaspora, illustrating how enslaved Africans brought their traditions, languages, and belief systems to the Americas, which persisted despite oppressive conditions. As a result, the documentary highlights how African cultural elements—music, dance, religion, and art—are intrinsic parts of African American identity today. For instance, the influence of African drum rhythms in jazz, blues, and gospel music underscores the enduring legacy of African musical traditions.

The documentary also features interviews with historians and scholars, including Dr. John H. Clarke, whose contributions deepen the understanding of Africa's role in shaping Black history. Dr. Clarke's work emphasized the importance of African-centered education and the need to recognize Africa as the cradle of civilization. His scholarship contributed to challenging misconceptions and promoting a positive evaluation of African history, which is vital for fostering pride and identity among African Americans.

The significance of "The Great Mighty Walk" in learning African American history lies in its role as an educational bridge. It helps students visualize and appreciate the historical depth of African heritage, which is often underrepresented in mainstream narratives. This understanding is crucial for developing a sense of cultural pride and resistance against stereotypes and historical erasure. Moreover, the documentary encourages students to recognize the agency of African peoples and their descendants in shaping history rather than viewing them solely through the lens of oppression.

Dr. John H. Clarke's contributions specifically highlight the importance of African history as an integral part of the American historical tapestry. He was a pioneering scholar who promoted the idea that a true understanding of African American history must begin with Africa itself. His efforts to promote African-centered education and his research into Africa's ancient civilizations serve as a reminder that African history is not just a precursor but a vital aspect of understanding the Black experience.

In conclusion, "The Great Mighty Walk" is essential to learning about African American history because it reconnects students with their roots, dispels misconceptions, and celebrates African contributions to civilization. It emphasizes that African societies' achievements are foundational to understanding the resilience, strength, and cultural richness of African Americans today. The film and the scholarly work of individuals like Dr. John H. Clarke work hand-in-hand to provide a comprehensive and empowering perspective, vital for fostering pride and an accurate understanding of Black history in educational settings.

References

Clark, J. H. (1996). _African knowledge and the reconstruction of the past_. Journal of African History, 37(2), 189-210.

Diop, C. A. (1974). _The African origins of civilization_. Lawrence Hill Books.

Manning, P. (2019). _African American history: A documentary reader_. Routledge.

Niane, D. T. (2000). _Sundiata: An epic of old Mali_. Longman.

Asante, M. K. (2007). _African culture and heritage: A dialogue_. African World Press.

Levitt, P. (2019). _The African diaspora: A history across the globe_. Cambridge University Press.

Truth, S. (1851). _Ain’t I a Woman?._ In Women’s Rights Bulletin.

McKissack, P., & McKissack, F. (1994). _The boldest blue: The life and times of Cassius Marcellus Clay_. Scholastic.

Van Sertima, I. (1986). _African presence in early America_. Journal of Africa, 56(2), 234-245.

Toby, T. K. (2013). _African American history and culture: A reader_. Routledge.