Stereotypes about black women?

Question

So many people think of black women as 'unattractive, fat, rude, and dumb' people, how did this crazy stereotype start?

Now, I'm not black, I'm Asian, but I've dated a few black ladies, and they were NOT 'unattractive, fat, rude, and dumb'. Well, maybe I was just lucky, LOL

Seriously, how did negative and false stereotype start?
Media?

I kinda sympathize with 'em because we Asian men have some messed up stereotypes to talk about too(nerdy, jerk, small *thingie*, blah blah, you name it!).

I'd appreciate thoughtful and serious opinions. Thank you.

Answer 1

I've been to many places and live in may cities and have never heard that stereotype.

Answer 2

People stereotype base on fear,jealousy, and just plain stupidity. They're are stereotypes for all types of women and men in every race. The key is not to listen and base your facts on one negative person or experience. And Jasmine please don't believe the guy that said 70% black women are single. He had racist and generalized links and they were stereotypical too. The number is around 40% and they often don't count black women that are in a long term relationships(With black,white,asian,etc men),divorced,widowed, are gay and just plain want to be single for numerous amounts of reason.

Answer 3

Mike had the best answer so far and I can't even attempt to top it, but I'll add my opinion anyway.

Speaking as a black woman who defies the stereotypes, I'd have to say that the stereotypes come from the fact that most people are comfortable with them. Even black people are comfortable with the stereotypes about black people. It's quite pathetic.

As far as the specific stereotypes about black women, I believe those began in the 60's and 70's during the Black Power movement. You know, when black women wore afros and fought for equality. It was quite the change from the always-smiling morbidly obese Aunt Jemima figure who would cook everyone's meals and watch everyone's children because she thought it her duty to do so. I believe that today's stereotype of black women is an outcry against what black women used to be in America.

In short, the stereotypes probably stem from the people who are wondering why black women are so outspoken (often falsely interchanged with "obnoxious") when we should be silently doing their bidding with a big fat smile on our lips. Lol.

That's how I see it anyway.

Answer 4

They started by close minded hateful people, and jealous people. Simple as that. We all go through them. I have.

White- Oh my God, I'm probably a flat spoiled stupid Paris Hilton type who is easy to get in bed, only cares about money, and I must think I'm better than everyone else.

My boyfriend is Asian and I know that stereotype to be false. People have made some rude comments about my boyfriend (in question form) You know the stupid "Is it true they have a small penis?) just like people say to him "why would you date a white girl they're rich spoiled brats!" <---I grew up in poverty, for the record. LOL.

Don't worry about it. You know the truth. And people of all races can be equally beautiful.

Answer 5

I've never thought that, I've known specific people of all colors that I thought were to a certain point, kind of vile.As for black women, whenever that comes to mind I think of an attractive seventys girl with an afro(like Beyonce onAustin Powers)or an african princess.I've always thought hindu women were pretty too.As for asian women,Lucy Liu, London Tipton (i don't know her real name, sorry.) White women are pretty too.I always thought they were pretty and geisha's come from asian cultures and there some of the most beautiful women on the planet.To me.As for the media, they make fum of everyone.Just try not to take it personally and, learn to laugh at it.

Answer 6

I think most negative stereotypes begin because people want to place themselves in a false position of high standing. In other words these people are very insecure, and they will say and do whatever it is to make themselves feel better.

Answer 7

Stereotypes are most likely the product of ignorant thinking. Some people have it in their heads as far as what a race should be. They lump all of us into one group and label us accordingly.

This is how it began

Answer 8

No need to re-state what Mike put down he nailed it on the head!

Answer 9

It is called fear and ignorance. This is coming from a straight, married white girl. I think black women( and men, in my opinion) are beautiful. Like Queen Latifa, very sexy, my husband thinks so. And she is my idol. who wants to be like those skinny vain models that are impratical sell outs.

Answer 10

Mike is da man! Very well stated, you have made so many of us proud. Kudos.

Answer 11

I think a lot of men are intimidated by black women because they are confident, assertive and don't usually have self-esteem problems. Most black women I've known thought they were beautiful and were confident with themselves. A lot of women lack those qualities so men aren't used to it. It probably intimidates them to a degree.