Sunday 23 December 2012

Black History Books Are A Source Of Invaluable Information

By Brandi Little


The growing number of new Black history books that are being published is an indication of the rising interest in the subject. Both hard cover and e books allow a broader readership to tap into this resource of information that was unknown for so many generations. Additional translations into different languages allows many more cultures to eliminate prejudices and allow for a better world for us to live in.

The dual approach is replacing the more traditional one where a unique single cultural treatment of the subject took place. A one culture approach cannot help but be biased and needs to be supplemented with the information that has been either intentionally or unintentionally left out.By doing so the reader will be less inclined to be vulnerable to racial prejudice no matter what the racial demographic may be.

Books are targeted to a variety of readerships starting from young children to adults. For the younger reader the storytelling approach is both entertaining as well as informative. Coupled with pictures this is a quick and effective approach to get the message across.

Storytelling is appealing to all age groups. Impressions start early in life and that is why it is important to expose young listeners and readers to these history books early in life. As they learn about history they will also gain insights on how communication breakdowns occur and what the end results will be.

It is interesting to note how much people of African descent have contributed to the societies in which they live. The industries of entertainment, sports and politics are just a few of the areas that have benefited from these contributions. Many individuals earned great achievements under trying circumstances such as slavery and apertheid.

These contributions reverberate in European countries as well as North America. The scope of this can be more easily imagined through the content books have to offer. For too many years this information was simply not included in the traditional approach to writing history books.

Many stories have been written about athletes from African descent who still maintain the world record in sports accomplishments. A mono cultural approach will often focus only on the accomplishments of the majority and not minority race. Certain sports such as basketball in the US are extremely popular. The players are Black and have become positive role models for many adults and children.

In the world of music new genres such as Motown and jazz were created by African Blacks in the US. Many have been inducted into the Hall of Fame such as Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald. Their music continues to be popular long after they have died and indicates the huge talent that these individuals evoked.

Historical facts help to destroy misconceptions and stereotypes that tend to permeate our way of thinking about people. Unless the readers are well informed they will tend to believe that the stereotype is true. Believing in stereotypes will often lead to conflict since there will be important gaps of understanding between Blacks and other races and cultures.

A more peaceful world is possible when Black history books are made available to everyone to enjoy and digest. A greater appreciation for the accomplishments that were unrecognized is the result and everyone benefits. The best benefit is less conflict and more harmony.




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