Encyclopedia of African American History, 1896 to the Present

• Copyright 2009
• Deluxe 5-volume, hardcover series
• Chronology of major events in black history
• Includes coverage of Hurricane Katrina and the 2008 election
• Entries range from 500 to 12,000 words and include cross references and bibliographies
• Signed entries written by leading scholars and experts
• Appeals to a wide range of readers including students, scholars and general readers
• Includes extensive 5-page essay on Barack Obama
• On Sale: $345.00 - a $250.00 discount off of the list price
• You receive a Free Set of books with this purchase! (or choose the Free Shipping option)
• Preface - Library Journal Review
• STILL AVAILABLE: Encyclopedia of African American History, 1619 - 1895; A Booklist Editor's Choice for 2006

What is Cultural Diversity?

Cultural diversity, or multiculturalism, is based on the idea that cultural identities should not be discarded or ignored, but rather maintained and valued. The foundation of this belief is that every culture and race has made a substantial contribution to American history.

Recommended Black History Title Copyright 2009 For further studies please see our new 2009 Encyclopedia of African American History, 1896 to the Present. a deluxe 5 volume series covering the African American experience from 1896 up to the election of President Barack Obama. Save $250.00 off of list price - see details

However, many people remain opposed to the idea of multiculturalism, or cultural diversity awareness, while others often support it and yet have no clear idea of how it should be taught.

Oftentimes we leave this difficult task up to our local schools and teachers, under the catch-all phrase of "multicultural education." We assume that during February our children will learn about "Black History" and in March about "Women's History." A particular month or week is dedicated to a certain ethnic group or belief, as if this somehow acknowledges their full contribution to American history.

This can often be as divisive as it is informative. If U.S. history is taught year round, but February is "Black History Month," then the logical assumption is that African American history and achievements are often overlooked during the normal school year. Or, that other cultures are somehow ignored during February.

The cultural diversity of the United States is truly astounding, as many different ethnic and cultural groups have contributed to the social, economic and cultural values of our society. This has been true throughout our history, even though many of our school books have not always taught that fact. In fact, the very idea that cultural diversity should be taught has only been promoted in the last few years.

The bottom line is that when we fully recognize that America is great because of the contributions of the many, then we as a people will be even more united in our common goals, and even more proud to be American citizens.

For further reading please see our latest cultural diversity books.