Developed as part of a multicultural research project conducted in the San Diego Community College District, this booklet presents the findings of an eight-member research team about various elements of Black American culture and history. The booklet begins with a brief history of Black Americans from the time of the arrival of the first slaves to the present day and includes an outline of changing racial attitudes and practices. The discussions that follow cover family life among slaves, the roles of male and female slaves, and the effects of slavery on Black Americans' self-esteem. The next sections discuss the relative privileges of freed slaves, the changes brought about by emancipation, the economic position of Blacks in the late 19th century, and the role of religion and education in the Black community. The following sections briefly consider educational, political, and cultural changes that have taken place during the 20th century. The next sections deal with the holidays celebrated by Black Americans; traditional foods and cooking styles, including recipes for the preparation of popular Black American foods; the differences between Black English and standard English and arguments for and against teaching Black English; and variations in clothing and their origins. The booklet concludes with annotated bibliographies of relevant social sciences and sociological resources and additional bibliographies citing materials on Black foods and language arts. (HB)