Course focuses on the evolution, nature, and role of African-Americans within the American political system. The concern is with African Americans as actors, creators and initiators in the political process. Beginning with an exploration of the historical antecedents of blackness in America, we will explore how the black experience in America has shaped the American political system (specifically public opinion, political institutions, political behavior, and salient public policy debates) and how black Americans have come to understand their position within the American political system.