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Why was it important that African Americans distinguish their production of minstrel shows from those of European Americans?

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Final answer:

African Americans wanted to distinguish their production of minstrel shows from those of European Americans because blackface entertainment perpetuated racist stereotypes and justified discrimination against African Americans.

Step-by-step explanation:

African Americans found it important to distinguish their production of minstrel shows from those of European Americans due to the racist nature of blackface entertainment. Blackface minstrel shows were a form of entertainment in which white actors painted their faces black and mocked black people. These shows perpetuated stereotypes and justified segregation and discrimination against African Americans. By distinguishing their own shows, African Americans sought to challenge these stereotypes and promote their own cultural heritage.

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