One in a series of four, this volume deals with the themes of identity, conflict, and integration nationalism with a focus on black Americans. Each volume in the series is considered to serve by itself as a text or guide for the student or teacher of a particular minority and is organized in the same manner allowing for comparisons or contrasts among the four minorities treated in the series. Within each given thematic section, the study outline provided is basically historical and chronological in development, with the proposed aim being to provide a many dimensional cross disciplinary study experience with a heavy emphasis on humanistic concerns. The notes and sources column provides references to sources which bear on and notes which deal with and expand on the parellel study outline. The present volume documents white racism and some of the problems and struggles black Americans have faced in the U.S. It also treats the personal contributions of individuals and the benefits accrued by American culture resulting from this groups' influence. Intended to serve as a beginning reference text for students and teachers, this volume is not considered an exhaustive study nor does its bibliography purport to contain a complete list of the many publications relevent to black American studies. (Author/AM)