Final answer:
The Great Southern Migration, or Great Migration, was driven by racial discrimination, economic opportunities, and the desire for education and social change. African Americans moved from the rural South to urban Northern and Western cities between the early 1900s and mid-1970s, seeking better living conditions and job prospects.
Step-by-step explanation:
Causes Behind the Great Southern Migration
The Great Southern Migration, also known as the Great Migration, refers to the movement of millions of African Americans from the rural Southern states to the urban Northern and Western cities between the early 1900s and mid-1970s. There were several key causes behind this significant demographic shift:
- Racial Discrimination: African Americans faced widespread racial discrimination and violence in the South, including Jim Crow laws, lynching, and limited economic opportunities. They sought better living conditions and job prospects in the North and West, where discrimination was relatively less intense.
- Economic Opportunities: The Industrial Revolution and World Wars created a demand for labor in Northern and Western cities. African Americans moved to these areas in search of better-paying jobs and improved living standards.
- Education and Social Change: Black communities in the South faced limited access to education and political power. The migration provided opportunities for African Americans to access better schools, voting rights, and participate in the Civil Rights Movement.
The Great Southern Migration had a profound impact on American society and culture, contributing to the growth of urban African American communities and shaping the trajectory of the Civil Rights Movement.
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