For the most part I understood Minstrel Shows to be a theatrical form of disrespect. I thought of it as nothing more than a more coy way of insulting and degrading black people. I never gave much thought to the fact that it was another way way of objectifying "the other" I had no real knowledge that Indians, Chinese as well as the Irish were also mocked. Most stereotypes were formed in minstrel shows. So why were these performances made such a popular part of American history if it was so very bad? Well In the early 19th century America was still very young an still trying to establish a Identity for its self- Minstrel shows in many ways did this.
Young America used this shameful forum to gain its "roots" The shows express political feeling on a lot of social matters of the times. Propaganda was exaggeratedly expressed and this was entertaining to the masses. Americans as a whole wanted to be entertained during this time while "The melting pot" was still "being mixing up". And I'm sure everyone wanted to find some kinda of light hearted way to discuss Taboo, political and recent events without breaking into an angry mob. Minstrel shows were meant to be a safe and funny way to mock and express fear of "the other" through political propaganda, hurtful mockery by way of "making spectacle of..."
While I in NO way shape form or fashion like this part of American history or considers it something positive...I can not deny that the music, entertainers and entertainment that came out of these shows in many ways helped to shape an American Identity. So understanding that Minstrel shows were a way of helping premature America find some kind of Identity. Even if it was a shameful one. Hey our great American Writer Mark Twain preferred this cultural entertainment over opera. lol
