The autobiographical genre in African American literature. The case of sports autobiographies.

This thesis examines the autobiographical genre and its significance in constructing an American identity. The study explores the genre's origins and its relationship with the African American community, questioning whether it can be considered uniquely American. Using African American autobiographers as a lens, the research specifically delves into the correlation between autobiography and American history, highlighting the role of two sports figures, Muhammad Ali and Kareem Abdul Jabbar, in addressing and combating racism. Additionally, the thesis analyzes the bond between the writer and character as a recurring theme in autobiographical literature.