In the early 20th century, Marcus Garvey looked at American race relations and the lack of black economic and political power around the globe, and concluded that the only route to progress was through racial solidarity and separate development. Garvey's activities led the FBI to launch a campaign for his isolation and deportation.

As we begin the 21st century, much has changed. In the United States, African Americans have attained civil and political rights, and have moved closer to economic equality. In Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, colonialism has given way to self-government.

Yet racism -- and racial inequalities in employment, education, housing, and health -- have stubbornly persisted. Are Garvey's ideas on black self-reliance, racial solidarity, and independence relevant today? What can or should the government do to address inequality?

A panel of experts answered your questions on Marcus Garvey's legacy and significance, and on a future vision for African Americans in our multi-cultural society, in this online forum. The forum was live from February 13-16, 2001, and is now over. However, the questions and replies are posted here permanently for you to read.

Read questions and answers on these topics:

 1. The Deportation of Marcus Garvey
 2. Marcus Garvey and Noble Drew Ali
 3. Marcus Garvey and Africa
 4. Marcus Garvey and Haile Selassie
 5. The Role of Education Against Racism
 6. Marcus Garvey and the U.S. Government
 7. The Role of Black People in the Demise of the Black Leader
 8. Methods of Teaching Garveyism
 9. Continued Investigations
 10. Marcus Garvey and Nationalism
 11. Out of Sight, Out of Mind
 12. Marcus Garvey and Mail Fraud
 13. Marcus Garvey vs. United States
 14. Comparing the Role of Women in the Garvey Movement
 15. Efforts of the Marcus Garvey Movement Beyond the United States

Read about the participants:

Robert Hill, moderator
Barbara Bair
Lani Guinier
Robin D. G. Kelley
Theodore Kornweibel
Stanley Nelson
J. Philip Thompson