The Negro at Work in New York City: A Study in Economic Progress

by George Edmund Haynes

"The Negro at Work in New York City: A Study in Economic Progress" by George Edmund Haynes is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This study explores the socio-economic circumstances of African Americans in New York City during a period of significant urban migration and industrial growth. Haynes examines the factors influencing the movement of the Negro population to urban centers, their roles within the wage labor market, and their experiences in business and professional spheres. At the start of the study, Haynes lays the groundwork for understanding the economic dynamics influencing African American migration to cities, particularly after the Civil War. He presents data illustrating that the movement of Negroes into urban environments parallels trends observed in the white population. Haynes underscores the need for a comprehensive investigation into the personal and economic conditions faced by Negro wage-earners, aiming to document their progress, the challenges they encounter, and the broader implications these trends have on urban society. The initial chapters emphasize the importance of statistics and detailed observations to analyze the changing demographics and economic contributions of the Negro population in New York City.