The main focus of this volume is an exploration of the patterns of competition for political power at the state and local levels in American politics. This volume looks at institutionalized patterns of black political power as they have evolved in the aftermath of the civil rights movement in the 1960s.

The editors argue that enough time has elapsed to warrant a new look at the circumstances in which black politics in America has played out. Chapters include an examination of the ability of black candidates to win statewide elections with crucial white support; an analysis of the impact of local political organizations in enhancing the chances of black candidates in winning local races; a look at the messages of black pastors regarding solidarity with the Latino community; and an investigation of the extent of the differences in the political participatory styles of poor blacks and poor whites.

The editors note that changes have taken place as black American politics has confronted new complexities. A works-in-progress section explains how theories of racial violence can be used to analyze racial incidents in the United States. Other essays include reflections on blacks in Brazil and in urban American politics.