Stereotypes of African Americans: Novelty Items

Imagery & Stereotyping Explained

Black Caricatures

How some people try to distance themselves from these images

While some items may not intend to offend and may unintentionally stereotype, novelty items are specifically designed to employ racist caricatures as a humorous, novelty device. These items tend to be purchased because of the extreme imagery, or because they are seen by the consumer as being funny and "cute." Novelty items often represent the most naked racism in American consumer society.

c.1910s Hand Fan	c.1900s "Sam-Bo" Fishing Lure	c.1930s Smoking Sambo Standup	c.1940s Fishing Lure, Indian Lake, Ohio	c.1950s Wooden Native Bobble-head Figure
Zulu-Lulu Set of Swizzle Sticks	1970s "Coon-ard Lines" Boat Ticket to Africa	2003 Ghettopoly boardgame	2003 Trash Talking Pimp Doll	2007 Hoodie Sweatshirt: "Arrest Black Babies before they become criminals"

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