Provides a concise up-to-date introduction to and overview of black nationalism in American history This analytical introduction assesses contrasting definitions of black nationalism in America, thereby providing an overview of its development and varied manifestations across two centuries. Its aim is to evaluate historiographical debates and synthesize a broad range of scholarship, much of it published since the beginning of the new millennium. However, unlike some of that work, this book offers a critical perspective that avoids advocacy or condemnation of black nationalism by examining major black nationalist thinkers, leaders and organizations as well as discussing some lesser-known groups and figures, the nature of black nationalism’s appeal and the position of women in and their contributions to black nationalism.Key Features Considers divergent definitions of black nationalism, providing an understanding of the nature of black nationalism Outlines historiography with an up-to-date assessment of key debates and leading scholarship Considers continuity, encouraging discussion of whether black nationalism was essentially unchanging or reflective of particular historical circumstances Looks beyond leading figures to understand how, why and when black nationalism gained support