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African Americans began to support the Democratic Party as a result of changes in the Fifth and Sixth Party Systems, which span from the early to mid-20th century. This shift was influenced by the New Deal era in the 1930s when President Franklin D. Roosevelt's policies aimed to address the economic hardships of the Great Depression resonated with many African Americans. The Democratic Party increasingly embraced civil rights issues in the 1960s, especially as civil rights movements gained momentum. This alignment provided African Americans with a political platform that more closely reflected their aspirations for equality, social justice, and civil rights.

As a historical context, prior to this shift, African Americans were more likely to support the Republican Party, which was formed in the 1850s as an anti-slavery party. Over time, however, the political landscape changed, and the Democrats began to advocate for policies that directly addressed the needs and rights of African Americans, solidifying their support for the party during crucial electoral periods.