Reprint of a 1970 article that describes the oppression of Blacks and the distortion of Black family life throughout United States history. Holds that the myth of Black matriarchy sets back the struggle for Black liberation. (GC)

The future of the black family is inextricably linked to the destiny of black people. It is an open question as to whether the "assimilationists," the group which basically accepts and joins in the behavior patterns of the dominant society, or the "nationalists," those adhering to more Afro-American or African customs, will prove to be the most…

Discusses the following topics: (1) changes in the American family; (2) the African family; (3) slavery and post-slavery family life; (4) the role of government; (5) the contemporary Black family; (6) socioeconomic characteristics; (7) the extended family; (8) problems and prospects; (9) Black families and the future; and (10) public policy and…