LibGuides: African American Vernacular English (Ebonics): Background Information

Background Information

Called AAVE, Black English, Black Vernacular, or Ebonics, this dialect of the American English language is among the most widely used and recognized. Use the following sources to learn more about AAVE in social, cultural, professional, and educational contexts.

CQ Researcher This link opens in a new window
Gives overviews of major topic areas. Includes articles, lists of other resources, and Pro and Con arguments for most topics.

The African American Almanac
Covers a large range of information on African-American culture, history, and society, with significant content on the African and Black diasporas.
Gale Encyclopedia of Multicultural America
The entry on African Americans includes information not only on language, but also on proverbs and traditions, customs, and beliefs.
Encyclopedia of African-American Culture and History
Includes information on Africanisms and Black English Vernacular, which readers may contextualize in the rich social and historical information.
Encyclopedia of Racism in the United States
Lists an entry on Black English regarding background and some related U.S. controversies. Also significant entry on bilingual education.
Encyclopedia of Multicultural Education
Includes articles on Black English and Ebonics and lists a number of relevant sources in the context of education.