Question

Why did some African American intellectuals and activists imagine the Cold War as beneficial to the struggle for racial equality in America?

Answer 1

During the Cold War, some African American intellectuals and activists saw it as beneficial to the struggle for racial equality in America due to the efforts to improve America's global image, the appeal of Soviet propaganda, and the influence of communist ideals.

Step-by-step explanation:

During the Cold War, some African American intellectuals and activists saw it as beneficial to the struggle for racial equality in America for a few reasons:

1. Global Image: The federal government, motivated by the need to improve America's global image, ended segregation and increased efforts to secure civil rights as a way to gain allies in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
2. Soviet Propaganda: Soviet propaganda highlighted a desire for equality regardless of race or gender, which appealed to some African Americans who faced racism and segregation in the United States.
3. Communist Influence: Opponents of the civil rights movement often denounced it as communist, leading to some African Americans being attracted to communist ideals that promised a classless society with equality.