In many ways, before the so-called civil rights movement, starting in the 50's, black Americans were better off. There was segregation, true, but at least most blacks were civil toward each other. There was respect, honor and dignity. There were INTACT families, fathers who cared about their children, and the knowledge that hard work is what will make you a success... There is so little of that in American inner cities now. We all have to be honest with ourselves. Go to most inner city areas and you will see trash all over the streets, and people hanging around not contributing to society. It is just ugly and depressing.