Dismantling of the African American Nuclear Family

Abstract

This paper discusses the demolition of the black nuclear family through three different eras of American history including slavery, the great migration, and the current era of mass incarceration caused by the war on drugs and war on crime initiatives from the late 20th century. It aims to explore the many ways that preexisting systems of oppression in America have made it difficult for black families to obtain the ideal family structure and create a stable foundation for their children.