African American Name Generator

Where does the name "African American" come from?

The name "African American" is derived from the term "Afro-American", which was first used in the late 19th century. The term "Afro-American" was originally used to describe persons of African descent who were born in the Americas. However, over time, the term became more inclusive and is now used to describe persons of African descent who are citizens or residents of the United States.

The use of the term "African American" gained popularity in the late 1960s and early 1970s, during the Civil Rights Movement. Many black Americans felt that the term "Negro" was outdated and wanted a name that better reflected their African heritage. In 1977, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) officially changed its name to include "African American".

A history of African American culture

From the earliest days of slavery to emancipation, reconstruction, and the civil rights movement, African American culture has a fascinating and long history. This history has many facets and overlaps with the cultures of numerous other demographics that are marginalized and oppressed, such as Native Americans, Latinos/as, and many others. African American culture has made such a significant contribution to the collective cultural legacy of the world that it is impossible to truly comprehend or appreciate American culture without it. In 1619, the first Africans who were sold into slavery were brought to Jamestown, Virginia, in the North American colonies. The United States has a long and complicated history of slavery. The work that African Americans need to do to improve their political and socioeconomic status still reflects its effects. African Americans were able to combine elements from their African heritage, influences from Europe, and their own creative adaptations to create a distinct culture in the American South despite the horror and hardship of enslavement. Through practices such as "conjurors," a belief system characterized by a blend of African religion, spiritism, and magic, slaves also preserved aspects of their African heritage. For African Americans, the abolition of slavery in 1865 marked the beginning of freedom, albeit one marked by struggle and violence. African American culture was able to flourish more openly during Reconstruction, but only in certain locations, primarily the North's urban centers. With jazz, African American culture and music were highlighted by musicians like Louis Armstrong, and African American authors like Langston Hughes gave the African American experience a voice in literature. African Americans strengthened their political, economic, and social gains throughout the 20th century. In response to Jim Crow laws, segregation, and police brutality, groups like the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) were established. In addition, African American culture diversified, resulting in a wide range of expressions, including rap and hip-hop music and the writings of Toni Morrison. Increased opportunities in education and employment resulted from the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s, which brought unprecedented attention to the plight of African American culture. African Americans' culture also experienced a newfound revival as they gained greater civil rights. Music, literature, and art by African Americans are still celebrated and felt today. The culture of African Americans has a history that goes beyond gloom, despair, and suffering. Instead, it is a tale of perseverance, empathy, and imagination. African Americans were able to create a culture that has become an essential part of the United States of America despite extremely difficult times. The legacy of their culture will endure and remain as a testament to their strength and resilience as African Americans continue to fight and gain in the present.

5 questions to help you come up with African American names

1. What time period is the name from?
2. Are there special family members that the name would honor?
3. Do you prefer a short or a longer name?
4. Do you prefer to find a name with a specific meaning?
5. Do you prefer a particular sound or letter?

Can I use the random African American names that this tool creates?

Yes you can. The Story Shack claims no copyright on any of these names, but it is of course possible that some of the values this name generator provides are already owned by anyone else, so please make sure to always do your due diligence.

How many ideas can I generate with this African American Name Generator?

The African American Name Generator can generate thousands of ideas for your project, so feel free to keep clicking and at the end use the handy copy feature to export your African American names to a text editor of your choice. Enjoy!

What are good African American names?

There's thousands of random African American names in this generator. Here are some samples to start:

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