African American History: The Modern Freedom Struggle

Course Lectures

• Course Introduction and W.E.B. Du Bois

  Clayborne Carson

  Play

  This introductory module sets the stage for the course, providing an overview of African-American history and the significance of W.E.B. Du Bois in shaping modern thought. It will cover:

  • Du Bois's early life and education.
  • His impact on African-American leadership.
  • The importance of his works in the context of the struggle for civil rights.
• Du Bois and the Great Depression

  Clayborne Carson

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  This lecture delves into the life and work of W.E.B. Du Bois during the Great Depression. It examines:

  • The socio-economic challenges faced by African Americans during this period.
  • Du Bois's critiques of capitalism and his advocacy for social justice.
  • His role in shaping responses to oppression and economic inequality.
• Shirley Graham: Transformation of an Artist/Intellectual

  Clayborne Carson

  Play

  This module explores the life of Shirley Graham, an artist and intellectual who made significant contributions to African-American culture. Key points include:

  • Her role as a writer and activist.
  • Her influence on the Harlem Renaissance and beyond.
  • The transformation of her artistic vision in response to social issues.
• Paul Robeson: Star to Outcast

  Clayborne Carson

  Play

  This lecture discusses Paul Robeson, highlighting his journey from stardom to being an outcast. Key topics include:

  • Robeson's contributions to music, theater, and activism.
  • The political climate that led to his ostracism.
  • His legacy and impact on civil rights movements.
• Bayard Rustin: Radical Outsider

  Clayborne Carson

  Play

  This module focuses on Bayard Rustin, a key figure in civil rights activism who was often marginalized for his sexual orientation. The discussion includes:

  • Rustin's role in organizing the 1963 March on Washington.
  • His philosophy of nonviolence and grassroots organizing.
  • How he navigated his identity within the civil rights movement.
• Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Social Gospel

  Clayborne Carson

  Play

  This lecture examines Martin Luther King Jr.'s social gospel, detailing his theological beliefs and how they influenced his activism. Key points include:

  • King's interpretation of Christianity and justice.
  • His commitment to nonviolent protest.
  • How his faith informed his vision for racial equality.
• The Women Who Made the Montgomery Movement

  Clayborne Carson

  Play

  This guest lecture by Awele Makeba highlights the critical roles women played in the Montgomery Movement. Topics include:

  • Key female figures in the movement.
  • Their strategies for mobilizing communities.
  • The long-term impact of their contributions on civil rights.
• Ella Baker Inspires the Student Movement

  Clayborne Carson

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  This module focuses on the influence of Ella Baker in inspiring the Student Movement. It covers her philosophies and methods, including:

  • Her emphasis on grassroots organizing.
  • How she empowered young activists.
  • The legacy of her work in the civil rights movement.
• Bob Moses: Mississippi Organizer

  Clayborne Carson

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  This session looks at Bob Moses's work as a Mississippi organizer during the civil rights movement. Key areas of focus include:

  • The challenges faced in voter registration efforts.
  • Moses's strategies for community engagement.
  • The significance of his contributions to the broader civil rights agenda.
• Vincent Harding on Martin Luther King Jr.

  Clayborne Carson

  Play

  In this guest lecture, Vincent Harding discusses the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Key points include:

  • King's philosophy of nonviolence.
  • His vision for society and equality.
  • The enduring impact of his work on future generations.
• Clarence Jones on Martin Luther King Jr.

  Clayborne Carson

  Play

  Clarence Jones provides insights into Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s life in this guest lecture. Key topics include:

  • Jones's personal experiences with King.
  • The development of King's strategies for activism.
  • The challenges and triumphs of their collective efforts.
• Malcolm X and his Ambiguous Legacy

  Clayborne Carson

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  This lecture addresses the complex legacy of Malcolm X, exploring his philosophies and their implications for the African-American struggle. Key points include:

  • His transition from a controversial figure to a symbol of empowerment.
  • The contrast between his views and those of other civil rights leaders.
  • How his legacy continues to influence contemporary movements.
• Stokely Carmichael Defines Black Power

  Clayborne Carson

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  This module focuses on Stokely Carmichael's definition of Black Power. The discussion includes:

  • His role in the civil rights movement and the Black Power movement.
  • The significance of his slogans and rhetoric.
  • The impact of his ideas on subsequent activism.
• The Black Panther Party

  Clayborne Carson

  Play

  This guest lecture by Elaine Brown provides insights into the Black Panther Party's formation and impact. Key topics include:

  • The goals and philosophies of the Black Panther Party.
  • Its community programs and outreach efforts.
  • The challenges the party faced from law enforcement and society.
• Outlaw Feminist Angela Davis

  Clayborne Carson

  Play

  This lecture focuses on Angela Davis and her role as an outlaw feminist. Topics include:

  • Davis's activism and contributions to the feminist movement.
  • The intersectionality of race, gender, and class in her work.
  • Her legacy in contemporary feminist discourse.
• Tupac Shakur's 'Thug Life'

  Clayborne Carson

  Play

  This module examines Tupac Shakur's concept of 'Thug Life' and its cultural implications. Key areas of focus include:

  • The origins and meaning of 'Thug Life' in Tupac's work.
  • How his life experiences shaped his music and message.
  • The ongoing relevance of his themes in today's society.
• Barack Obama's American Dream

  Clayborne Carson

  Play

  This lecture covers Barack Obama's vision of the American Dream, recorded on December 6, 2007. Key discussion points include:

  • Obama's perspective on opportunity and equality.
  • How his background influenced his ideas.
  • The implications of his vision for the future of America.