Abstract
How have the different social and historical contexts in the United States and France affected the development of rap as a response to unjust political and social norms? This thesis combines historical research and lyrical analysis of rap music to understand the importance of hip hop and rap as a medium of protest against police brutality, systemic oppression, and discrimination. Social movements throughout United States history reveal that protest music, with roots in slavery and abolition, has been an important factor in advocating for change and justice, aiding the freedom struggles of the Black community. Case studies today show how rap music continues this legacy in not only the United States, but also in France. Marginalized communities in France, with ties to former French colonies, have adapted the music genre to their own lives and realities. The thesis assesses how urban violence and rap music are used together in protest against incidents of police brutality, political discrimination, and legislation against marginalized communities and rappers. Although the backgrounds and histories of marginalized communities differ between the two countries, the music they create produces similar themes surrounding injustice, rebellion, and belonging which shows how this artform created and developed by the Black community in the United States can be used by others as an outlet from struggle and a method of protest.