Distinguishing Between Black & African American

Key Difference – Black vs African American

The terms Black American and African American are often used interchangeably to describe people of color. However, a distinction between the two terms can be made. Black American generally refers to those who are immigrants from Africa, the Caribbean, and South and Latin America, while African American refers specifically to those of African descent. The key difference is that although all African Americans are black, not all Black Americans are of African descent.

Who is a Black American?

Black American is a term used to describe those who are immigrants from Africa, the Caribbean, and South and Latin America. A large number of the American population are black, and these individuals have their own distinct culture, including black literature and music. They cannot be considered African American because most Black Americans have not only been born in America but their previous generations have also lived in America. Although there has been progress in comparison to the past, the conditions of black Americans still face instances of discrimination and stereotyping due to their color.

Who is an African American?

African American is a term that has been widely used since the late 1980s to describe those of African descent. This primarily refers to individuals who descended from African slaves. During the 17th and 18th centuries, slavery was a legal institution in American colonies, and the first African slaves were brought to North America in 1619 to help in the production of crops. Over the years, a large number of African slaves were shipped to many colonies where they were used for plantation work. This era of slavery can be considered as a period of inhuman treatment given to African slaves. These practices were finally abolished in 1865 when slavery was completely eradicated by the United States President Abraham Lincoln.

What is the difference between Black and African American?

• Black American: Black American refers to those who are immigrants from Africa, Caribbean, and South and Latin America.
• African American: African American refers to those of African descent.
• Popularity of the Term:
• Black American: The term became popular in the 1960s.
• African American: The term became popular in the 1980s.
• African Descent:
• Black American: Black Americans are not of African descent.
• African American: African Americans are of African descent.