The African American population has made remarkable progress since the 1960s, but recent trends may derail the progress of many American blacks. Compared to previous years, United States blacks, who number 30 million in 1991, are more educated, earn higher salaries, work in more prestigious jobs, and participate more fully in politics. However, large gaps remain between white and black Americans on most indicators of social and economic progress. In some areas, the gaps are widening. Average life expectancy for blacks has fallen slightly since 1985, while it has increased for whites. White men can expect to live over 7 years longer than black men. Median income for black families in 1989 was slightly below its 1969 level, after adjusting for inflation. While the number of affluent blacks blossomed in the 1980s, the net worth of blacks averaged only one-tenth that of whites in 1989. As African Americans enter the 1990s, high rates of birth to unmarried mothers, family instability, poor educational performance, and other factors continue to hinder progress for many African Americans, while others earn advanced degrees and high salaries. The report contains 10 tables, eight figures, a list of 72 references, a list of 20 suggested readings, and 9 discussion questions. (Author/JB)