TED Talks Daily The origins of blackface and modern Black stereotypes | Dwan Reece
Feb 7, 2022
Discover the troubling origins of blackface and its pervasive influence on American culture. Dwan Reece breaks down how this practice, rooted in the 1830s, has perpetuated harmful stereotypes within entertainment. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing these distorted portrayals and their ongoing impact on societal views of race. Listeners are urged to confront these legacies and take collective responsibility in addressing the lingering effects of racism. It's a thought-provoking exploration of history and representation.
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Dwan Reece's Introduction to Blackface
- Dwan Reece saw Bing Crosby in blackface in a movie musical as a child.
- This sparked her interest in understanding the history and impact of blackface minstrelsy.
Origins of Blackface Minstrelsy
- Blackface minstrelsy started in 1830s New York, not the South.
- White actors used burnt cork, red lips, exaggerated eyes, and wigs to create caricatures of African Americans.
Popularity and Criticism of Minstrelsy
- Blackface minstrelsy became the most popular form of entertainment in the 19th century.
- Even figures like Abraham Lincoln and Mark Twain praised it, while Frederick Douglass condemned it.