Trying to capture the essence of 100 years of American history is indeed a challenge, yet an interesting and somewhat overwhelming commemorative fête. The growth of America within this century's range showed a nation going through vast amounts of changes. The democratic principles of America during this era were being tested and constantly on display before other nations around the world. The ideal vision was that American democracy could work for all classes and races of people. Therefore America had become a testing ground where people from different nationalities and cultures were perceived homogeneously as living and enjoying the benefits of individual freedom and social justice.

Looking back 100 years ago, that picture was inexplicably tainted, and the citizens of African-American descent were denied basic civil rights due to their race. Race became the dividing line which disavowed African-Americans their rightful place as full citizens in a nation espousing American citizenship and the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness under the United States Constitution.

The paradox of two separate societies was endured for years and well into the mid part of this past century. Being able to maximize individual achievement was extremely difficult due to restrictive laws and opportunities for most African-American citizens during this era. African-Americans as a racial minority of color could easily be identified and isolated. It has always been difficult to understand historically why the stigma of race as a justification for the denial of basic civil rights for African-Americans was used for so long. To be inclusive in this democracy, most African-Americans had to live in a marginal society, segregated in all walks of life due to their race. Thousands of books and countless studies over the ensuing generations have shown how the widespread use of racism in America grew to outrageous proportions. The visible two separate societies created for African-Americans a certain necessity to create and proliferate as a separate group with specific social, cultural, religious, and political organizations catering to the recognition of their own individual needs in America.

This past 100 years of American history seems short, yet still a long time ago. Within that span of time, the clock did move, and it provided us with some ups and downs in the African-American's quest in achieving full citizenship in a society with half closed doors. This exhibit is a retrospective, chronological account of what Events, Personalities, and Milestones evolved within 100 years of history and the role the African-American played in that history.

Melvin Sylvester
Black History Month, February 2000
B. Davis Schwartz Memorial Library
C.W. Post Campus of Long Island University

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