Bad Times and the Political Behavior of Older African-Americans

Authors

  • Steven A. Peterson
  • Albert Somit

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15763/issn.2374-7781.1994.15.0.43-56

Abstract

This essay explores the effects o f two specific life experiences upon the political attitudes and behavior of older African-Americans as compared with younger African-Americans. The findings that emerge are generally opposite what theory would predict. Poorer health and experiencing traumatic events seem to increase, by direct and indirect routes, the likelihood of African-Americans becoming more active in politics. Possible explanations for the unexpected findings are discussed.

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Published

1994-04-01

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