Essay On African American Culture

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African Americans continue the lineage of the slaves who were forcefully removed from their homelands and brought to the southeastern United States. From their ancestors diverse roots in Africa, they developed a distinct culture, incorporating elements from different African cultural traditions, languages and religion. Evidence of this culture in everyday life is deeply embedded in their rituals, folklore, distinctive arts, crafts, religious beliefs, cuisine, language and music. Slaves actively developed their own customs involving family and food. The culinary tradition known as “soul food” has been widely celebrated, as jazz music has been celebrated, as part of African American culture. The phrase soul puts a premium on suffering, endurance, and surviving with dignity. It is the tangible invention and property of African Americans. Soul food is one of the most well-known and recognizable types of cuisine in the United States.” It is labeled “Southern food” although it has roots that trace it back to Africa. It is believed that African Americans …show more content…

There is a camaraderie and a relationship that is forged when going through the process. People enjoy spending time with others enjoying the tastes and textures of different cultures that are never thought about. The sharing of food promotes solidarity in a group by keeping people connected and passing down heirloom recipes. I have memories of being in the kitchen with my family on holidays, giving me a feeling of comfort. Additionally, I remember my grandmother always cooking whenever I visited her house. She loved to cook, she also oversaw the cooking of food at her church. Lastly my grandfather, knew of my love for country sausage and whenever I stayed at my grandparents house he would always cook sausage for breakfast. Lastly, whenever there is food, we also have an appetite for the appreciation of the culture that it originated from and not just the food

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