Date of Award
11-28-2016
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
History
First Advisor
Charles Romney
Abstract
This study attempted to disentangle the various depictions of Black hair and its fight for social acceptance. The research covered various stigmas associated with natural hair in the African American culture. Several books pertaining to the topic agreed that African Americans suffered from terrible depictions of themselves through various media sources of its era. Advertisements made their mark by preying on those with beauty insecurities. Black-owned businesses also capitalized on African American’s beauty insecurities. The study was accompanied by a pictorial exhibit and displayed at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Research suggested that in order for mainstream to accept Black hair in its natural state, the African American community must accept it first. Hair continues to matter when hair care gives individuals the prospect to shape our identity.
Recommended Citation
Sims, Stephanie Rena, "It's Growing on 'Em: Black Hair's Fight for Social Acceptance" (2016). Theses and Dissertations. 717.
https://research.ualr.edu/etd/717
