The Oppression Of African-Americans

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The oppression of African-American slaves in the United States existed for approximately two and a half centuries. The events that occurred during the oppression have been deeply anchored into African-American history and culture. Constituting the third largest racial and ethnic population in the United States, African-American heritage is not only observed nationally, but the African Diaspora is recognized globally and celebrated annually in both Canada and the United Kingdom. Because information about African-American heritage has travelled vast distances, it enabled many to gain an awareness in African-American culture. With cultural awareness, one can acquire knowledge, perspective, and understanding that can influence the way in which …show more content…
"I built my hut in Congo and it lulled me to sleep/ I looked upon the Nile and raised the pyramids above it," (6-7). Both lines are following the path taken by civilization which is exemplified by the construction of huts and pyramids. However, key differences in the types of structures being built further explain how those structures were culturally significant. The hut is a symbol of simplicity and peace. Huts are a form of shelter though the subtext implies that these huts were more than just refuge, they were a home to all whom resided in one. These were humble homes- small comfortable dwellings made of natural materials, and it was these homes that provided them with a sense of peace and security thus lulling them to …show more content…
They did not receive the same benefits, where they resided was on the outskirts of pyramid village, and their deaths were not nearly as notable as the upper-class. Therefore it becomes clear why this community of African-Americans looked upon the Nile as opposed to just looking at the pyramids themselves. The significance of them observing from a distance all of their work raising the pyramids is reflective of their low social class and their role as outsiders. Altogether, those whom lived in huts depicted when the African-American culture was undemanding and simplistic, and the proceeding generations whom built the pyramids portrayed the transition from that simple life to social stratification- a foreshadow of what was yet to
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