black power movement essay for grade 12

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

Gr. 12 HISTORY REVISION: THE BLACK POWER MOVEMENT

REVISION: THE BLACK POWER MOVEMENT

Do you have an educational app, video, ebook, course or eResource?

Contribute to the Western Cape Education Department's ePortal to make a difference.

Home Contact us Terms of Use Privacy Policy Western Cape Government © 2024. All rights reserved.

• Free Teaching Resources
• Universities
• Public Colleges
• Private Colleges
• N6 Question Papers and Memorandums with Study Guides
• N5 Question Papers and Memorandums with Study Guides
• N4 Question Papers and Memorandums with Study Guides
• N3 Question Papers and Memorandums with Study Guides
• N2 Question Papers and Memorandums with Study Guides
• N1 Question Papers and Memorandums with Study Guides
• Latest Updates
• Learning Content

• History Grade 12 Study Resources Directory

Civil Rights Movement 1950 to 1970 essay: Black Power Movement History Grade 12

Civil Rights Movement 1950 to 1970 essay: Black Power Movement History Grade 12 memo and answer guide.

Table of Contents

CIVIL SOCIETY PROTESTS FROM THE 1950s TO THE 1970s: BLACK POWER MOVEMENT

Explain to what extent did Black Power Movement influence the actions of African Americans in the 1960s. Use relevant examples to support your line of argument.

[Plan and construct an original argument based on relevant evidence using analytical and interpretative skills.]

Candidates should indicate to what extent the Black Power Movement influenced the actions of African Americans in the 1960s. Candidates should use relevant examples to support their line of argument.

MAIN ASPECTS

Candidates should include the following aspects in their response:

Introduction: Candidates should indicate to what extent the Black Power Movement influenced the actions of African Americans in the 1960s.

ELABORATION

Origins of the Movement:

• The Black Power Movement came out of dissatisfaction with the Civil Rights Movements.
• The Civil Rights Movement had focused on black and white Americans working together but inequalities remained. African Americans still faced poverty and racial discrimination.
• Some African American were disappointed with the Civil Rights Movement and believed that King was too moderate
• They wanted change in the USA to happen faster and they were prepared to use violence to do this.
• Black Power Movement promoted black pride, unity and self- reliance
• Black nationalists believed that the use of force was justified in order to gain social, political and economic power for Black Americans

Role of Malcolm X:

• Malcolm X, leading figure in the Black Power Movement, powerful speaker and dedicated human rights activist
• In 1952 he became a leading member of the nation of Islam, a black Muslim group which believed that white society was holding African Americans back and they desired separation of races
• Eloquence and charisma attracted many new members to this organisation membership grew from 500 in 1952 to 30 000 in 1963
• Promoted the use of violence to achieve the aims of Black Power
• Challenged the peaceful approach of Martin Luther King Jnr
• After a pilgrimage to Mecca in 1963-1964, Malcolm X changed his ideas about integration as he had seen how Muslims of all nationalities and races could live together peacefully
• Founded the Organisation of Afro-American unity in 1964. He became less militant and adopted views that were not popular with black nationalists

The Black Panther

• Huey Newton and Bobby Searle formed the Black Panther Party (BPP) for Self Defence in 1966
• They aimed to protect African American neighbourhoods from police brutality and racism
• The Black Panthers promoted African Americans carrying guns to defend themselves
• The idea of Black Power scared many white Americans
• The BPP started programmes to help ease poverty in Black communities such as Free Breakfast for Children, feeding thousands of poor and hungry black children everyday
• Clinics where adults and children could get free medical care
• A tutoring scheme to help black children succeed at school
• The BPP drew up a ten-point programme that included the following demands:
• Full employment and an end to capitalism that preyed on the African American community
• Descent housing and education for African Americans
• An end to police brutality
• The Black panthers were very popular in the 1960s as they were involved in defending the rights of both workers and ethnic minorities like the African American communities in the ghettoes

The role of Stokely Carmichael

• Stokely Carmichael joined the Civil Rights Movement when he saw the bravery of those involved in a sit-in
• Became a member of SNCC and a Freedom Rider
• His commitment to Martin Luther King’s passive resistance ideals changed in 1966 after James Meredith, a civil rights activist engaged in a peaceful protest march, was shot
• Carmichael and other activists continued on the march to honour Meredith and during the march he was arrested
• When he was released from jail, Carmichael made a famous speech using the term ‘Black Power’ for the first time and he urged African Americans to take pride in being black
• He was in favour of African dress and Afro hairstyles
• He wanted African Americans to recognise their heritage and build a sense of community
• He also adopted the slogan ‘Black is beautiful’ which promoted pride in being black
• Carmichael started to criticise other leaders, like King, and how they wanted to work with whites
• He later left the SNCC and joined the BPP where he promoted the Black Power Movement as a leader, speaker and writer
• He later wrote a book linking Black Power to Pan-Africanism
• Any other relevant answer Conclusion: Candidates should tie up their argument with relevant conclusion

Did You See These?

Steve Biko and the Black Consciousness Movement Grade 12 Essay Guide (Question and Answers)

Important History Grade 12 Essays Questions and Answers to Prepare for Exams

History Grade 12 2023 November Structured Past Question Papers To Simulate Real Exam Conditions

Anglo-Boer War Questions and Answers History Grade 12

History Grade 12 November 2022 Strategically Chosen Past Question Papers To Maximize Learning

History Grade 12 May – June 2018 Past Question Papers With Integrated Memos For Detailed Study

History Grade 12 2021 June Past Papers and Memos

History Grade 12 exam guidelines – 2024 Scope pdf download

• Share This Post:

Add a Comment

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Reset Password

• International
• Schools directory
• Resources Jobs Schools directory News Search

Grade 12 History Essay: Black Power Movement USA

Subject: History

Age range: 16+

Resource type: Assessment and revision

Last updated

13 February 2024

• Share through email
• Share through twitter
• Share through linkedin
• Share through facebook
• Share through pinterest

The Black Power Movement Essay explores the historical and social significance of the Black Power Movement that emerged in the 1960s. This essay examines the key ideologies, leaders, and activities that shaped the movement and analyzes its impact on the African American community and the broader civil rights movement.

The essay begins by providing a brief overview of the historical context in which the Black Power Movement emerged, including the Civil Rights Movement and the socio-political climate of the time. It then delves into the core principles of the movement, such as self-determination, racial pride, and the rejection of nonviolence as the sole strategy for achieving racial equality.

The essay explores the influential figures within the Black Power Movement, including Stokely Carmichael, Angela Davis, and Huey P. Newton. It discusses their roles as leaders and their contributions to the movement’s ideology and activism. Additionally, the essay highlights significant events and organizations associated with the movement, such as the Black Panther Party and the National Black Power Conferences.

Furthermore, the essay examines the impact of the Black Power Movement on the African American community and the broader civil rights movement. It analyzes how the movement challenged traditional civil rights strategies and redefined notions of Black identity and empowerment. The essay also discusses the movement’s influence on subsequent activist movements and its lasting legacy in contemporary social and political discourse.

Overall, the Black Power Movement Essay provides a comprehensive analysis of this significant chapter in American history, shedding light on its ideologies, leaders, impact, and lasting relevance in the fight for racial justice and equality.

Tes paid licence How can I reuse this?

Your rating is required to reflect your happiness.

It's good to leave some feedback.

Something went wrong, please try again later.

This resource hasn't been reviewed yet

To ensure quality for our reviews, only customers who have purchased this resource can review it

Report this resource to let us know if it violates our terms and conditions. Our customer service team will review your report and will be in touch.

Not quite what you were looking for? Search by keyword to find the right resource:

• South Africa
• Grade 12 Free Learning Resources
• History Grade 12 Notes and Past Exam Papers for Revision

Civil Rights Movement 1950 to 1970 essay: Black Power Movement History Grade 12

Civil Rights Movement 1950 to 1970 essay: Black Power Movement History Grade 12 memo and answer guide.

CIVIL SOCIETY PROTESTS FROM THE 1950s TO THE 1970s: BLACK POWER MOVEMENT

Explain to what extent did Black Power Movement influence the actions of African Americans in the 1960s. Use relevant examples to support your line of argument.

[Plan and construct an original argument based on relevant evidence using analytical and interpretative skills.]

Candidates should indicate to what extent the Black Power Movement influenced the actions of African Americans in the 1960s. Candidates should use relevant examples to support their line of argument.

MAIN ASPECTS

Candidates should include the following aspects in their response:

Introduction: Candidates should indicate to what extent the Black Power Movement influenced the actions of African Americans in the 1960s.

ELABORATION

Origins of the Movement:

• The Black Power Movement came out of dissatisfaction with the Civil Rights Movements.
• The Civil Rights Movement had focused on black and white Americans working together but inequalities remained. African Americans still faced poverty and racial discrimination.
• Some African American were disappointed with the Civil Rights Movement and believed that King was too moderate
• They wanted change in the USA to happen faster and they were prepared to use violence to do this.
• Black Power Movement promoted black pride, unity and self- reliance
• Black nationalists believed that the use of force was justified in order to gain social, political and economic power for Black Americans

Role of Malcolm X:

• Malcolm X, leading figure in the Black Power Movement, powerful speaker and dedicated human rights activist
• In 1952 he became a leading member of the nation of Islam, a black Muslim group which believed that white society was holding African Americans back and they desired separation of races
• Eloquence and charisma attracted many new members to this organisation membership grew from 500 in 1952 to 30 000 in 1963
• Promoted the use of violence to achieve the aims of Black Power
• Challenged the peaceful approach of Martin Luther King Jnr
• After a pilgrimage to Mecca in 1963-1964, Malcolm X changed his ideas about integration as he had seen how Muslims of all nationalities and races could live together peacefully
• Founded the Organisation of Afro-American unity in 1964. He became less militant and adopted views that were not popular with black nationalists

The Black Panther

• Huey Newton and Bobby Searle formed the Black Panther Party (BPP) for Self Defence in 1966
• They aimed to protect African American neighbourhoods from police brutality and racism
• The Black Panthers promoted African Americans carrying guns to defend themselves
• The idea of Black Power scared many white Americans
• The BPP started programmes to help ease poverty in Black communities such as Free Breakfast for Children, feeding thousands of poor and hungry black children everyday
• Clinics where adults and children could get free medical care
• A tutoring scheme to help black children succeed at school
• The BPP drew up a ten-point programme that included the following demands:
• Full employment and an end to capitalism that preyed on the African American community
• Descent housing and education for African Americans
• An end to police brutality
• The Black panthers were very popular in the 1960s as they were involved in defending the rights of both workers and ethnic minorities like the African American communities in the ghettoes

The role of Stokely Carmichael

• Stokely Carmichael joined the Civil Rights Movement when he saw the bravery of those involved in a sit-in
• Became a member of SNCC and a Freedom Rider
• His commitment to Martin Luther King’s passive resistance ideals changed in 1966 after James Meredith, a civil rights activist engaged in a peaceful protest march, was shot
• Carmichael and other activists continued on the march to honour Meredith and during the march he was arrested
• When he was released from jail, Carmichael made a famous speech using the term ‘Black Power’ for the first time and he urged African Americans to take pride in being black
• He was in favour of African dress and Afro hairstyles
• He wanted African Americans to recognise their heritage and build a sense of community
• He also adopted the slogan ‘Black is beautiful’ which promoted pride in being black
• Carmichael started to criticise other leaders, like King, and how they wanted to work with whites
• He later left the SNCC and joined the BPP where he promoted the Black Power Movement as a leader, speaker and writer
• He later wrote a book linking Black Power to Pan-Africanism
• Any other relevant answer Conclusion: Candidates should tie up their argument with relevant conclusion

Independent Africa comparative case study: the Congo and Tanzania Essay

History grade 12 2021 june past papers and memos for download, related posts, find history grade 12 september 2023 trial exam question papers and memos: pdf download.

History Grade 12 November 2021 Final NSC Exams question papers and memorandums

History Grade 12 May – June Mid Year Exams 2021 previous Papers for downloads

List of History Grade 12 September 2020 Past Papers and Memos

Questions and answers based on bantu education act for revision, leave your thought here cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Latest Posts

Hospitality Studies Grade 12 June Question Papers and Memos pdf Download

Visual arts grade 12 june 2023 question papers and memos pdf download, dramatic arts grade 12 june 2023 question papers and memos pdf download, setswana home language grade 12 june 2023 question papers and memos pdf download, tourism studies grade 12 june 2023 question papers and memos pdf download, electrical technology grade 12 june 2023 question papers and memos pdf download, engineering graphics and designs grade 12 june 2023 question papers and memos pdf download, english home language grade 12 june 2023 question papers and memos pdf download, civil technology grade 12 june 2023 question papers and memos pdf download, siswati home language grade 12 june 2023 question papers and memos pdf download.

More Learning Resources @ My Courses

• Availability
• Add to cart
• Description
• Additional information
• Custom attributes
• Custom fields

• Grade 12 Learning Resources Study Notes and Previous Papers
• Grade 11 Learning Resources
• Grade 10 Learning Resources
• IGCSE Syllabus
• Latest Updates

Insert/edit link

Enter the destination URL

Or link to existing content

• Society and Politics
• Art and Culture
• Biographies
• Publications

Grade 12 - Topic 3 - Civil Society protests 1950s to 1990s

Topic 3: Civil society protests 1950s to 1970s

Online Resource:

http://learn.mindset.co.za/resources/history/grade-12/civil-society-protests-1950s-1970s [Accessed 25 February 2015]

The above video resource provides useful hints / study tips before embarking on grade 12 History.

Before we begin, and to clear any confusion, we must understand what the term ‘civil society’ means.

“ community  of  citizens  linked by  common   interests  and  collective activity .”

http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/civil-society  [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

What forms of civil society protest emerged from the 1960s to 1990?

Background and focus

The Second World War had been fought to attain democracy but it did not deliver lasting peace or a better society.

After the war:

women in growing economies were beginning to do paid work outside the home,

youth were more critical of their parents ‘generation and increasingly became aware of injustices, racism and human rights violations;

a counter culture started to emerge.

The section on women’s identity in South Africa is closely linked with the study of Apartheid in Grade 11 (Topic 5). In this section, learners should analyse the civic action taken in the context of the overall theme of this topic.

The following is to be covered in this topic:

Introduction: Overview of civil society protests

”Women’s liberation and feminist movements in the 1960s and 1970s: a middle class movement in industrialised countries;

http://womenshistory.about.com/od/feminism-second-wave/a/Womens-Liberation.htm [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

”Women’s identity in South Africa from the 1950s to 1970s – black women see themselves first as black, and white women see themselves first as white; trade unionism, women workers, their economic role in the rural areas and in the informal sector; as political anti-pass campaigners, initiatives taken within the liberation struggle, including the middle class Black Sash;

http://www.sahistory.org.za/topic/turbulent-1950s-women-defiant-activists  [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

Women and the anti-pass campaign

The Defiance Campaign is launched and women step forward

The Federation of South African Women ( FSAW or FEDSAW)

Women’s role in the Congress of the Party and the Freedom Charter

The women’s 1955 anti-pass campaign

Preparations for the 1956 Women’s March

Source: http://www.sahistory.org.za/topic/black-sash  [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

“The Black Sash was formed in 1955 and it began as a tea party of six women, Jean Sinclair, Ruth Foley, Elizabeth McLaren, Tertia Pybus, Jean Bosazza and Helen Newton-Thompson. The women were opposed to the Senate Bill which asked for a two thirds majority of both houses of parliament to remove people described as 'coloured' from the common voters’ role. The organisation grew into an avenue for liberal women to oppose government policies by means of marches, convoys, demonstrations and vigils. This was the founding of the Women’s Defence of the Constitution, the symbol of the organisation, a constitution draped in a black sash, showed their mourning of the constitution. The media soon nicknamed the organisation the “Black Sash” referring to the black sashes that members draped over their right shoulder during protest demonstrations.”

Source: http://www.sahistory.org.za/topic/black-sash  [Accessed 25 February 2015]

”the peace movements: disarmament; students and anti-war movements; and

Online Resources:

https://www.marxists.org/glossary/events/p/e.htm  [Accessed 25 February 2015]

http://learn.mindset.co.za/resources/history/grade-12/civil-society-protests-1950s-1970s/learn-xtra-exam-revision-2013/civil-society-protests  [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

Civil rights movements.

Case Study : the US Civil Rights Movement

Source: http://rapaulsen.iweb.bsu.edu/images/large/civilrights.jpg [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

This section includes:

Reasons and origins of the Civil Rights Movement in the USA (background information only);

http://www.answers.com/Q/What_are_the_causes_of_the_civil_right_movements[Accessed [25 February 2015]

http://www.english-online.at/history/civil-rights-movement/civil-rights-movement-history-and-causes.htm [25 February 2015]

http://www.isreview.org/issues/45/civilrights.shtml  [25 February 2015]

The role, impact and influence of Martin Luther King Junior; and the influence of passive resistance (Gandhi) on MartinLuther King;

Gandhi ...influencing Martin Luther King Junior

http://www.michaellewin.org/articles/gandhi/martin-luther-king-jnr/ [25 February 2015]

http://peacemagazine.org/archive/v17n2p21.htm [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

Forms of protest through civil disobedience: Montgomery bus boycott, sit-ins, marches including to Lincoln Memorial,

Source : http://www.socialwelfarehistory.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/cincinnati_flyer_march_on_washington.jpg [Accessed 25 February 2015]

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2012/aug/20/civil-disobedience-sanchez-gordillo [Accessed 25 February 2015]

Montgomery Boycott

http://www.montgomeryboycott.com/overview/ [Accessed 25 February 2015]

http://www.socialwelfarehistory.com/eras/march-on-washington-august-28-1963/ [Accessed 25 February 2015]

www.criticalpast.com/.../65675022808_Historical-o . [Accessed 25 February 2015]

Birmingham campaign and Selma-Montgomery marches;

www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejKhuRZlRQE [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

www.history.com/topics/.../selma-ontgomery-mar ... [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

School desegregation: case study (Little Rock, Arkansas); and

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qk1tTCk2Kks [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

Short-term and long-term gains.

Case Study: the Black Power Movement

Source : http://s3.amazonaws.com/rapgenius/312a_43.jpg [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

Reasons for the movement;

www.teachertube.com/.../roots-of-the-black-power-o .. [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

Black Panther

http://www.historylearningsite.co.uk/black_panthers.htm [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

Roles of Stokely Carmichael and Malcolm X; and

1. http://www.history.com/topics/black-history/stokely-carmichael [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

2. http://www.biography.com/people/malcolm-x-9396195 [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

3. http://www.malcolmx.com/ [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

Source: http://ionenewsone.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/malcolm-x-1.jpg [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

Overview of the progress, if any, that was made towards equality and civil rights by the civil rights and Black Power movements.

While African-American members of the US population have made great strides, recent events in the USA have suggested that unhealthy tension (violent) still exists in the USA today.

It would be useful for educators to divide students into groups to debate this topic. Instead of using such a general approach, perhaps categorise the advancement of people of colour in the USA in different spheres of private and public life.

Constructive debate should be encouraged, as well as a safe environment for learners to ventilate their views, in a respectful manner. This topic is particularly relevant for South Africa. If History is meant to teach us about the further, then we need to pay attention to it.

Exam preparation

http://learn.mindset.co.za/sites/default/files/resourcelib/emshare-show-note-asset/899_fdoc.pdf [ Accessed 25 February 2015]

Collections in the Archives

Know something about this topic.

Towards a people's history

Home — Essay Samples — Social Issues — Social Movements — Black Power Movement

Essays on Black Power Movement

The origins of the black power movement.

The Black Power Movement emerged in the mid-1960s as a response to the ongoing struggle for civil rights and racial equality. An essay on this topic could delve into the historical context that gave rise to the movement, including the impact of the Civil Rights Movement, urbanization, and the influence of prominent leaders such as Malcolm X and Stokely Carmichael.

Another essay topic could focus on the ideology and goals of the Black Power Movement, exploring its emphasis on self-determination, community empowerment, and the rejection of assimilationist strategies. This essay could also examine the diversity of perspectives within the movement, including the role of women and LGBTQ individuals.

The Impact of the Black Power Movement on Society and Culture

The Black Power Movement had a profound impact on American society and culture, influencing everything from music and art to politics and education. An essay on this topic could explore how the movement reshaped public perceptions of race, inspired a new generation of activists, and contributed to the emergence of Black Studies programs in universities.

Finally, an essay could examine the lasting legacy of the Black Power Movement and its continued relevance in contemporary discussions of race, power, and activism. This essay could explore how the movement paved the way for future social justice movements, and how its key principles continue to inform debates about racial inequality and systemic oppression.

In addition to these specific essay topics, students may also consider exploring related issues such as the role of the Black Panther Party, the impact of the Black Power Movement on international liberation struggles, and the intersection of race, gender, and class within the movement. By choosing a topic that aligns with their interests and expertise, students can produce a compelling and well-researched essay that contributes to our understanding of this crucial period in American history.

The Black Power Movement offers a wealth of essay topics for students to explore, from its origins and ideology to its impact on society and culture. Students can ensure that their essays reach a wide audience and contribute to ongoing discussions about race, power, and activism. Whether focusing on the historical context of the movement or its contemporary relevance, students have the opportunity to produce insightful and impactful essays that shed light on this pivotal moment in American history.

The Best Black Power Movement Essay Topics for 2024

• The Influence of the Black Power Movement on Contemporary Social Justice Initiatives
• Comparative Analysis of the Civil Rights Movement and the Black Power Movement
• Black Power Movement: Gender, Class, and Power
• The Role of Women in the Black Power Movement
• Black Power and its Impact on African American Art and Culture
• The International Influence of the Black Power Movement on Anti-Colonial Struggles
• Black Power's Impact on African American Community & Empowerment
• Media Representation of the Black Power Movement: Between Demonization and Idealization
• The Evolution of Black Power Ideology: From Civil Rights to Black Lives Matter
• Examining the Legacy of the Black Panther Party within the Black Power Movement

The Black Panther Party as The Leaders of Black Power Movement

Black arts era as the origin of the black power movement, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences

+ experts online

The Presence of Black Theology in Black Power Movement

Relevant topics.

• Civil Disobedience
• Emmett Till
• Me Too Movement
• Montgomery Bus Boycott
• Arab Spring
• Iran Protests
• Occupy Wall Street
• Gun Violence
• Pro Choice (Abortion)

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free