第八课 美国社会问题.pptVIP

Lesson EightSocial Problems in the United States I. Racial Problems The Roots of Racial Discrimination The first blacks were brought to North America in 1619. Then, the slave trade developed in a large scale. Slaves were sold in the market like cattle at auctions. By 1860, the black slaves have reached 4 million. Black Slaves Black slaves have a miserable life. They are forced to work 18 to 19 hours a day. So, many of them died very young from diseases or disablement. The Abolishment of Slavery In 1861, the American Civil War broke out. In 1862, President Lincoln issued The Emancipation Proclamation, which set black slaves free. In Dec.1865, the 13th amendment of the Constitution came into effect, and the slavery was officially abolished. K K K (Ku Klux Klan ) KKK is a secret white organization. It terrorized blacks by violent acts of shooting or whipping. KKK was founded in 1866 by some Civil War Veterans. Racial Prejudice The whites consider they are superior than the blacks. There were segregation laws, which kept the blacks from the whites in schools, restaurants, and other public places. The blacks do not have rights to vote. They were paid the lowest salary. Racial Problems in Modern Society The race relations between the blacks and the whites have been improved in attitudes. But the blacks are still treated unequally in some aspects. Political Power II. Drug Abuse Drug abuse is a big threat to American society, particularly to the young members. In 1960s, the Hippies were against the traditional values by taking drugs. Now, many people in U.S. have tried drugs, such as cocaine and marijuana. Young people can buy and take marijuana when they are in middle school. Taking drug leads to a damage to people’s health and it brings about crimes. Michael Phelps Crime Crime is one of the most serious problems facing the nation. Because of their poor living condition and educational background, black people commit more crimes than white peo