How did free african american communities shape american life and culture, and how did black civic leadership transform debates over slavery and race?

After the Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in 1965, African American communities had an important role in shaping part of the culture of the United States.

For instance, African American churches became a central part of the culture of this emerging community. These were not only places for worship, but also places for learning and socializing. Some churches were also centers for discussing political matters. Black Ministers were considered as community leaders.

The great example of the emergence of leaders within these churches was Martin Lther King Jr. He led the Civil Rights Movement and held numerous speeches over equality between all communities in Society.

Slavery greatly restricted the ability of African-Americans to practice their own traditions, many of their practices, values ​​and beliefs were maintained over time, having been modified or merged in large part with white culture. At the same time, some characteristics of African culture were enhanced during the period of slavery. The result of all of the above is a unique and dynamic culture that has had a profound impact on the American majority culture.  After emancipation, the unique African-American traditions continued to bring radical innovations in fields such as music, art, literature, religion, cooking and other fields.

Black civic leadership transform debates over slavery and race  by telling their stories of suffering and pain so the people could understand them instead of judging.