- The Black Athlete in the U.S.

Catalog description

This course, grounded in history, Black studies, and sport studies frameworks, focuses on the experiences of Black athletes in the United States from the 18th century to the 21st century. Great emphasis is placed on the 20th and 21st centuries. Through an examination of personal narratives and social movements, students will explore the numerous factors that have shaped the individual and collective experiences of athletes of African descent in sports. The aim is for students to gain an understanding of the role sports have played in the lives of Black athletes in the United States based on their varying social identities that have shaped their lives. The class will place certain themes such as race and racism, slavery and freedom, and oppression and resistance, through the prism of athletics in the context of U.S. society.