Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book discusses the different reactions by black cultural and political leaders to the O. J. Simpson verdict and the Million Man March—reactions that shed important light on racial politics, gender, and the different perceptions of blacks and whites. It describes the differing attitudes of whites and blacks toward the Simpson verdict and the Million Man March in the larger context of racial attitudes and social and economic change. The book compares Clarence Thomas, General Colin Powell, Malcolm X, and others to explore the importance of role models and symbols, focusing in particular on Justice Thomas's individualistic, self-help vision of politics and the role of government. It looks at questions of racial identity and culture along with some of the important political implications confronting a multiracial, multicultural America.