Sociology

The election of Barack Obama as the first African American president posed not only a momentous event for American history but also redefined the new trends surrounding American politics. In this process, it has transcended new directions of finally equalizing directions for the country and fostered new initiatives in laying out what its citizenry particularly the minority needs. Seeing this, the ability of Barack Obama to bring back the enthusiasm and trust of the American public alongside the promises of hope and change developed the optimism of African Americans to the capacity of the new president.

One essential element surrounding this renewed vigor among African Americans is the appeal and the way he practiced politics from a senator until his election into office. In here, he believed that given the current standing of American society, it badly needs change. Here, it corresponds not only those who are favorable but aspects of development for all (Atwater, 2007). Given these, he sought to campaign for initiatives that result in alleviating the problems of his constituents in facilitating their needs accordingly (Books, 2006).

Seeing this, the enthusiasm may have spurred during the time when he was campaigning as the standard bearer of the Democrats. His speeches towards change and what areas need to be addressed provided the leverage and strength to appeal to African Americans regardless of their age and economic differences. Obamas ability to use rhetoric created the ability to seek out the best in every American  finding new directions wherein they can grow and prosper (Books, 2006).

Another essential element shaping the renewed optimism about Obamas presidency is the way he conveys African Americans of the essential core values that can catapult the country towards the current crisis. Since the country during the time of election faces a tough task of establishing sustainability and growth amidst the current financial crisis, Obamas words and speeches have soothed the capacity of Americans to think and re-assess their fundamental beliefs that shaped them as a great nation. Here, he reminded the active role that each individual played towards incorporating change. In particular, Book (2006) mentions it is this idea that our communal values, our sense of mutual responsibility and social solidarity should be expressed through our government (p.127).

Though he may often be criticized for using too ideal phrases and concepts, he nevertheless captured the crowd in developing new patterns that can shape American policy to the future. This then resulted to an increase of awareness and participation of African American in political concerns and issues. Barack Obama was able to capitalize on leveling the playing field of American politics and became an instrument where issues are raised and addressed. It did not into consideration the differences in race, relationship, and socio-economic status (Atwater, 2007).

Lastly, the ability of Barack Obama to provide hope for African Americans became the instrument for increase optimism on their part. Here, they recognized that having a unified stance towards change and growth must also correspond on their end. Their contributions will serve as a blueprint in establishing effective implementation of what Americans need and determine the appropriate matters that need to be addressed (Jacksonville Daily Progress, 2010).

In the end, the ability of Barack Obama to provide hope, inspire people, and convey a reassessment of core values allowed African Americans to become involved and optimistic about their future with this president. Seeing this, it not only prompted a new chapter in American history, it also provided a new source of inspiration in allowing Americans recognize their ability to become part of that hope and dream. Due to this, it brought upon enthusiasm, willingness, and strength to combat new challenges and respond to these new trend of American politics.