The Great Migration refers to the movement of over six million African Americans from the rural Southern United States to urban areas in the North and West between 1916 and 1970. This migration was driven by various factors, including the search for better job opportunities, escaping racial discrimination, and the desire for improved living conditions. Major cities like Chicago, Detroit, and New York saw significant increases in their African American populations during this period.
The Great Migration had a profound impact on American culture and society. It contributed to the growth of vibrant African American communities and cultural movements, such as the Harlem Renaissance. Additionally, it influenced labor markets and political dynamics, as migrants sought to assert their rights and improve their social conditions in their new environments.