Economic Growth and Black Political Representation
Adam King
10 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This AP African American Studies study guide covers political power and representation (Voting Rights Act of 1965, Black elected officials), economic disparities and progress (wealth gaps, education, entrepreneurship), and required sources (Colin Powell's speech, Obama portraits, Brookings report). It emphasizes key figures like Shirley Chisholm, Barack Obama, and Kamala Harris. The guide includes practice questions (multiple-choice, short answer, and free response) and exam tips.
#AP African American Studies: The Night Before Review 🚀
Hey there! Let's get you prepped and confident for your AP African American Studies exam. This guide is designed to be your best friend tonight, making sure everything clicks into place. We'll focus on the big picture, hit the key points, and make sure you're ready to ace this thing!
#1. Political Power & Representation ✊🏾
Let's dive into how African Americans gained political influence and the impact it had. Remember, the AP exam loves to connect political, economic, and social themes, so pay attention to those links!
#The Voting Rights Act of 1965
- Key Idea: This landmark act outlawed discriminatory voting practices. 💡
- Impact:
- Massive increase in Black voter registration and turnout.
Opened doors for Black candidates to win elections at all levels.
Led to a sixfold increase in Black elected officials between 1970 and 2006.
#Growth in Black Elected Officials
- Numbers: From about 1,500 to 9,000 officials between 1970 and 2006. * Significance: Demonstrated the power of the Black Freedom movement in transforming political representation.
#Advances in Black Federal Leadership
- Shirley Chisholm: First Black woman elected to Congress (1968). 🌟
- Founded the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) in 1971, a group that promotes Black political power and advocates for reform.
- Colin Powell: First Black Secretary of State (2001).
- Condoleezza Rice: First Black woman Secretary of State.
- Barack Obama: First Black President of the United States (2008). 🇺🇸
- Kamala Harris: First Black Vice President of the United States (2020).
Practice Question
Multiple Choice:
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The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was primarily intended to: (A) Increase the number of Black elected officials (B) Outlaw discriminatory voting practices (C) Promote economic equality (D) Establish affirmative action programs
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Which of the following best describes the significance of Shirley Chisholm's election to Congress? (A) It marked the beginning of the Civil Rights Movement (B) It led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act (C) It made her the first Black woman to serve in Congress (D) It established the Congressional Black Caucus
Short Answer Question:
Briefly explain how the Voting Rights Act of 1965 impacted the political representation of African Americans in the United States.
FRQ:
Analyze the impact of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 on African American political representation and discuss the significance of the election of Barack Obama as the first Black president of the United States. In your response, consider the historical context, key figures, and the long-term implications of these events.
Scoring Guide
- Thesis (1 point): A clear, historically defensible thesis statement that addresses the impact of the Voting Rights Act and the significance of Obama's election.
- Impact of the Voting Rights Act (2 points): Discussion of the act's effects on voter registration, political participation, and the increase in Black elected officials.
- Significance of Obama's Election (2 points): Explanation of the historical context, symbolic importance, and long-term implications of Obama's presidency.
- **Historical Context and Key Figures (2 p...
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