African American Politics
African American Politics is a cutting-edge introduction to the political successes, failures, and persistent challenges of African American political participation in the United States. Exploring both historic and present day political phenomena, the book draws on a wide range of sources, including U.S. Census data, Gallup Polls, landmark court opinions, speeches and first-hand interviews to provide the reader with a comprehensive and up-to-the-minute analysis of what often appear to be "irreconcilable differences" between the American political system and one of its most historically subjugated constituency groups.
Amongst the key topics covered are:
- symbolic versus substantive politics
- the impact of race on socio-economic status
- the post -Civil Rights leadership vacuum
- the rise of Black Conservatism and "New Black Politics"
- the political significance of Black Mega-Churches
- the emergence of "Hip Hop" as an alternative political voice
- the future of African American Politics
This book will be essential reading for students of American and minority politics, African American studies and related disciplines. It will serve as a catalyst for dialogue for anyone interested in the role of African Americans in contemporary US political life.
Kendra King's text captures the complex interaction between African Americans and US political institutions.