Final answer:
The correct option is A) Economic disparities and slavery.
Anti-black sentiment has been historically fueled by systemic economic disparities stemming from slavery, along with mass media portrayals and widespread discrimination that contribute to ongoing racial prejudices and inequalities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Historical factors that contributed to anti-black sentiment in popular and political culture include economic disparities and slavery. These factors created a foundation for systemic racism, where the forced labor and subsequent dehumanization of African Americans were justified based on a perceived racial inferiority. Economic disparities perpetuated by slavery led to widespread discrimination and segregation, which were institutionalized through Jim Crow laws and other forms of legal disenfranchisement. This legacy has echoed throughout generations, affecting the socioeconomic standing of Black Americans, often relegating them to poorer neighborhoods with limited access to quality education, thereby impacting employment opportunities.
Additionally, these historical inequities have been reinforced by mass media portrayals, which have often depicted African Americans in a negative light. Through stereotyping and a lack of representation in positive roles, the media has played a role in cementing racist attitudes within society. Similarly, discrimination in various forms, whether in the labor market, housing, or the broader societal interactions, has further contributed to the perpetuation of racial disparities and prejudices.