African American culture

African American culture encompasses the traditions, artistic expressions, language patterns, religious practices, and social customs developed by Black Americans, shaped by African heritage, the experience of slavery, and ongoing contributions to American life.

It includes distinctive music (blues, jazz, hip-hop, gospel), literature, cuisine, dance, fashion, and speech patterns like African American Vernacular English.

The culture has profoundly influenced mainstream American and global culture while maintaining its own distinct identity: Soul food is central to African American culture.

The term usually implies shared historical experience rather than recent African immigration.