Courtesy of Library of Congress, Jackson, Robert P., "Will you ever give the colored race a show: an appeal to Congress words and music by Robt. P. Jackson," 1898
Description
Before revealing the lyrics to his August 1898 song, "Will You Ever Give the Colored Race a Show," Robert P. Jackson expressed in writing his frustration over the inability of African Americans to secure respectable jobs and promotions. This frustration was directed both at individual business owners and especially the Republican Party, which African Americans supported in the previous election.
Full Transcript of "Will You Ever Give the Colored Race A Show"
Transcribed Excerpts from "Will You Ever Give the Colored Race A Show"
Source-Dependent Questions
- Preview the source by examining the cover sheet. Predict the content and purpose of the song.
- As you read the source, list Robert P. Jackson's reasons African-American workers at the time should have been hired and promoted.
- Identify from your list Jackson's most persuasive reason. Why was this a strong argument?
- Why was Jackson so critical of the Republican Party? Do you believe that criticism was justified? Why or why not?
Citation Information
Jackson, Robert P., "Will you ever give the colored race a show: an appeal to Congress words and music by Robt. P. Jackson," 1898. Courtesy of Library of Congress