Black Fathers In African-American Men In The 1950's

Social Group: Fathers
During this time period, fathers were the “breadwinners” and expected to work and provide for their families. However, black fathers in the 1950’s particular had to work long hours because the only jobs available to them were often low paying. This directly correlates with African-American’s low place on the social ladder during this pre-Civil Rights era. It was also extremely difficult for African-American women to find work during this time, placing the financial buren solely on the father. They took great pride in their earnings, and sometimes abused their power as head of the household. Many lacked a good relationship with their children because to show emotion besides pride, aggression, or anger would make them weak.

However, his use of tough love and lack of approval towards his children creates conflict in the play, which suggests the importance of a father’s emotional role in a family.
The role as a breadwinner: In Troy’s mind, he has done everything right as a father because he has provided his family with basic needs for survival: a place to live, food on the table, and clothes on their backs. His strong work ethic has made him the man he is today; but he often burns all his fuel at work and, at the expense of his family, copes with his pain by drinking.
Sense of pride: As the breadwinner, Troy takes great pride in his earnings. When his oldest son, Lyons, comes around asking for ten dollars, Troy replies by saying,“ ‘I 'm just supposed to haul people 's rubbish and give my money to you cause you too lazy to work?’ ” (1, 19). Although he may come across as harsh, his intentions are good, as he wants his sons to be self-reliant like he has been since the age of fourteen, and know what it feels like to be proud an accomplishment. If he hasn’t taught his sons to live on their own, then he has failed as a