For a significant period of time, African Americans have been forced to endure numerous hardships, one of which is negative stigmas that unfairly generalize their people, their culture and their lifestyle. These stereotypes of an entire nationality label blacks as "superstitious, lazy, ignorant, dirty, untrustworthy, and (and even) criminal" ("Stereotypes"). Such generalizations are the product of public perception, which has been diluted by entrenched historical and current prejudices, as well as media coverage of a well-known African-American cultural center: Harlem. Despite the negative connotations associated with it, Harlem is a community that strives to thrive and maintain its strong cultural status. George Canada, the founder of the Harlem Children's Zone, says, “People think the kids are all violent and they're all out fighting and shooting. Most of our children want to grow up in a peaceful community where they can live their lives and become successful adults” (“Your Town”). Because this area has undergone significant historical change, its past is difficult, which accurately reflects the struggle of the African American people. To gain a better understanding of both the African American community and its cultural center, it is essential to learn about the area's unique cultural history. From the Renaissance to the revolts; drug wars, violence and poverty, Harlem's history as the cultural epicenter of the black American community can shed light on the evolution of its culture, people and current stereotypes. By the 1920s, Harlem, New York, had reached a cultural peak; “became the most famous and influential American black ghetto” (Weisbrot). As African Americans migrated north, Harlem became highly concentrated...... middle of paper ......l P. "Chapter 9: Harlem Renaissance - A Brief Introduction." A research and reference guide: an ongoing project. February 2, 2008. PAL: Perspectives in American Literature. November 13, 2008. “Stereotypes of African Americans.” Stereotypes of African Americans. June 2008. Wikipedia. November 28, 2008 .Weisbrot, Robert. "Harlem." Encyclopedia of Urban America. 340-41. Ebooks. OhioLink. Cincinnati. November 13, 2008 "Your city, your news." NY1. New York City. August 13, 2008. Harlem children's demonstration against gun violence. August 13, 2008. NY1. November 20th. 2008 .