The Color of Water

by

James McBride

Teachers and parents! Our Teacher Edition on The Color of Water makes teaching easy.
A term for racial pride among African Americans, initially used in conjunction with the Civil Rights Movement. However, in contrast to the Civil Rights Movement the Black Power Movement started to shift its focus towards racial segregation and black superiority, whereas Civil Rights was interested in equal rights and integration.
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Black Power Term Timeline in The Color of Water

The timeline below shows where the term Black Power appears in The Color of Water. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Chapter 4: Black Power
Race and Racism Theme Icon
Otherness and Belonging Theme Icon
Family Theme Icon
Memory and Identity Theme Icon
In 1966, at age nine, James becomes more aware of the black power movement. His home and neighborhood are transformed as afros come into style, his siblings memorize... (full context)
Chapter 10: School
Race and Racism Theme Icon
Otherness and Belonging Theme Icon
Family Theme Icon
Memory and Identity Theme Icon
...to follow the rules so closely either. Many of James’s siblings become excited by the Black Power movements, and express newfound black pride. (full context)