Publishing, recording, and broadcasting beyond state and local borders allowed African American Tennesseans to make their mark on national audiences. Artists, composers, musicians, actors, and writers proclaimed their presence and voiced their aspirations through their creative output. The efforts of radio and television station owners, record producers, newspaper editors, and book and music publishers invented new categories of American popular culture. Their efforts paralleled that of ministers, political activists, and grass-roots organizations in a cavalcade of public events and activities aimed toward advancement of the race.
"Jim Crow Train" performed by Josh White, 1941. Full item record.
African American artists and writers joined the ranks of modernists who re-shaped American culture in the early twentieth century. ... More.
After New Deal programs constructed modern gymnasiums and improved athletic fields, African American teenagers created new sport legacies in baseball, basketball, football, and track and field. ... More.
Community festivals and seasonal events can be found across the state of Tennessee. ...More