These performances were a form of American entertainment, popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries, that involved white performers darkening their skin with burnt cork and mimicking African Americans. These acts often portrayed Black individuals as lazy, ignorant, or buffoonish, reinforcing harmful stereotypes. For example, characters like “Jim Crow” became widely recognized and symbolized derogatory depictions of African Americans.
The significance of understanding this theatrical genre in the context of United States history lies in its reflection and perpetuation of racial prejudice and discrimination. It reveals the societal attitudes and biases prevalent during that era, influencing public perception and contributing to the justification of discriminatory practices, including segregation and disenfranchisement. Studying it provides crucial insight into the complex history of race relations and its enduring impact on American society.
