The African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross

Racist Images and Messages in Jim Crow Era

Clip: Episode 4 | 2m 25s

Racist images in the Jim Crow era were used as propaganda to demean African-Americans and legitimize violence. A visit to the Jim Crow Museum at Ferris State University in Michigan reveals racist memorabilia and messages in all forms, from kitchen items to postcards featuring public whippings. Learn more about the redefinitions of racial stereotypes in Episode 4, "Making a Way Out of No Way."

Aired: 11/12/13

Rating: NR

Problems Playing Video? | Closed Captioning

Explore Our Shared Histories

Henry Louis Gates, Jr. Series

Explore Our Shared Histories

Stream more from Professor Henry Louis Gates, Jr. through iconic series like Making Black America, Finding Your Roots, and The Black Church. Discover the ancestry of diverse, influential people and delve into the rich history and culture of Black America.

Learn More