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  1. AP African American Studies
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HBCUs, Black Greek Letter Organizations, and Black Education

Maya Hall

Maya Hall

8 min read

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Study Guide Overview

This study guide covers Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), including their origins (as a response to discriminatory practices), founding (post-Civil War and Jim Crow eras, including specific early institutions and the Second Morrill Act's impact), educational models (liberal arts vs. vocational, and key figures like Washington and Du Bois), and impact (on African American education, culture, activism, the Civil Rights Movement, and global influence). It also discusses Black Greek Letter Organizations (BGLOs) and provides visual aids for analysis. Finally, it offers practice questions and exam tips covering multiple-choice, short answer, and free-response formats.

#AP African American Studies: HBCUs - Your Ultimate Study Guide 🚀

Hey there! Let's get you prepped and confident for your AP exam. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, especially the night before the test. We'll break down everything you need to know about Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in a clear, engaging way. Let's do this!

#1. Introduction to HBCUs

#What are HBCUs?

  • Historically Black Colleges and Universities are institutions of higher education established before 1964 with the primary mission of serving the African American community. They played a pivotal role during times of segregation and continue to be vital centers of Black education and culture.

Key Concept

HBCUs were not just schools; they were safe havens, cultural hubs, and training grounds for future leaders.

  • Impact: HBCUs have shaped generations of African American professionals, activists, and leaders, significantly impacting social progress and global influence.

#2. The Founding of HBCUs

#2.1 Origins of Black Colleges

  • Response to Discrimination: HBCUs emerged because of the systemic racism that denied African Americans access to predominantly white institutions. 💔

  • Post-Civil War Era: Most HBCUs were founded after the Civil War to educate newly freed African Americans.

  • Jim Crow Era: They were crucial in providing educational opportunities during the Jim Crow segregation period.

#2.2 First HBCUs vs. Later Institutions

  • Early Support: White philanthropists initially established some HBCUs as private colleges.

  • First HBCUs:

    • Cheyney University (1837): The very first HBCU, founded by Quaker philanthropist Richard Humphreys. 🥇
    • Avery College (1849): Founded by the Avery family.
    • Wilberforce University (1856): The first HBCU fully owned and operated by African Americans, established by the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Named after British abolitionist William Wilberforce.
  • Second Morrill Act (1890): Led to the creation of 18 land-grant HBCUs with federal funding. States had to either desegregate or create separate institutions for Black students.

    • Examples: Florida A&M University, North Carolina A&T State University.

#2.3 Land-Grant HBCUs

  • Purpose: Established under the Second Morrill Act (1890) to provide agricultural and mechanical education.

  • Focus: Practical skills and trades to prepare African Americans for employment.

  • Examples: Tuskegee University (Alabama), Prairie View A&M University (Texas).

#2.4 Educational Models at HBCUs

  • Two Main Models:
    • Liberal Arts: Focused on classical studies, literature, and humanities. Example: Fisk University.
    • Vocational-Industrial: Em...
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Question 1 of 12

What is the primary mission of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)? 🎓

To serve as exclusive institutions for the elite

To provide higher education primarily for international students

To serve the African American community by providing higher education

To focus solely on vocational training