History of terms used to describe the African American
The terms used to describe African Americans have evolved significantly over time, reflecting changes in societal attitudes, political contexts, and cultural self-perception. Here’s a brief overview of the history and evolution of these terms:
### 1. **African** (Early 17th Century)
- **"African"**: The earliest term used to describe people of African descent in the American colonies. This term was used to describe individuals who were brought to America from Africa through the transatlantic slave trade.
### 2. **Negro** (17th to Mid-20th Century)
- **"Negro"**: This term was commonly used from the 17th century through the mid-20th century. It was derived from the Spanish and Portuguese word for black, "negro," and was used in both formal and informal contexts. It was the standard term used in documents, literature, and speech.
### 3. **Colored** (Late 19th to Mid-20th Century)
- **"Colored"**: This term was used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and was adopted by organizations such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), founded in 1909. It was a common term but fell out of favor due to its association with segregation and discriminatory practices.
### 4. **Black** (Mid-20th Century to Present)
- **"Black"**: Gained prominence during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. It was embraced as a term of empowerment and solidarity, reflecting a growing sense of pride and identity among African Americans. The term "Black" also encompasses cultural and historical connections to Africa.
### 5. **Afro-American** (1960s-1980s)
- **"Afro-American"**: Used particularly in the 1960s and 1970s as a way to emphasize the connection to African heritage. It was commonly used in academic and cultural contexts but gradually fell out of favor.
### 6. **African American** (1980s-Present)
- **"African American"**: Became widely accepted and preferred in the 1980s. It reflects a dual heritage of African ancestry and American citizenship. This term is used in formal contexts, including official documents and academic writing, and is seen as respectful and inclusive.
### 7. **People of Color** (Late 20th Century-Present)
- **"People of Color"**: While not exclusive to African Americans, this term is used to describe individuals who are not white and encompasses a broad range of racial and ethnic identities. It is often used in discussions about race and social justice.
### 8. **Black American** (Contemporary Usage)
- **"Black American"**: Used interchangeably with "African American" in contemporary contexts. It emphasizes the American aspect of identity while acknowledging the African roots.
### 9. **BIPOC** (Late 2010s-Present)
- **"BIPOC"**: Stands for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. It is used to recognize the specific experiences of Black and Indigenous people while also including other people of color in discussions about racial justice.
### 10. **Other Context-Specific Terms**
- **"Diasporic" Terms**: In specific contexts, terms reflecting the African diaspora or cultural heritage might be used, such as "African Caribbean" or "African British."
The evolution of these terms reflects shifts in societal attitudes and the ongoing efforts of African Americans and their allies to assert identity, dignity, and political power.
