During Christmas dinner (1930's), did African American's have a limited supply of dishes, (African Americans who had to work in the fields)?
Could you name some dishes they had?
These sites have a lot of information about traditional African-American foods.
http://www.vineyardesigns.com/recipes/ideas/christmas-dinner/soulful-christmas-dinner-menu-ideas/
http://www.answers.com/topic/united-states-african-americans
To provide an accurate answer to your question about the availability of dishes for African Americans during Christmas dinner in the 1930s, we can examine historical context and consider the conditions African Americans faced during that time.
During the 1930s, racial segregation and discrimination were deeply entrenched in American society, particularly in the Southern states. African Americans often faced limited opportunities and economic disparities, including restricted access to resources, education, and employment. Many African Americans were sharecroppers or worked in the agricultural fields, which often meant living in poverty.
Due to these circumstances, it's possible that African Americans, especially those who worked in the fields, may have had limited access to elaborate or expensive dishes for Christmas dinner. Their options were likely influenced by economic constraints and geographical factors, as access to diverse ingredients, cooking facilities, and time for preparation were often limited.
Some common dishes that African Americans may have had during Christmas dinner in the 1930s, considering their circumstances, could include:
1. Collard greens: A staple in Southern cuisine, collard greens were readily available and affordable, often cooked with ham hocks or smoked pork for flavor.
2. Black-eyed peas: Another Southern staple, black-eyed peas were consumed as a symbol of luck and prosperity. These legumes could be cooked with salted pork for added flavor.
3. Cornbread: A simple yet satisfying dish, cornbread was a common accompaniment to meals. Its versatility made it an accessible option for African Americans.
4. Fried chicken: Poultry, especially chicken, was a popular meat choice, as it was affordable and could be readily sourced. Fried chicken could be a special addition to the Christmas dinner spread.
5. Sweet potato pie: Sweet potatoes were a readily available and affordable ingredient, making sweet potato pie a common dessert choice among African Americans.
While these dishes represent possible options, it's important to note that experiences varied among African American families during that time. Factors such as location, socioeconomic status, and personal preferences would have influenced the specific dishes served.