This book was first published in 1972 when the author was Director of Research for the National Urban League, which was headed by Mr. Vernon E. Jordan, Executive Director. While the 1999 sequel has been favorably received, the author continues to receive numerous requests for copies of the original work that has been out of print for many years. Therefore, this reprint edition also includes an epilogue, 'Thirty Years Later,' which describes the impact of social forces and policies on the social and economic status of African American families since the 1970's. It also examines the role of the five cultural strengths on the functioning of contemporary African American families.