Obama Announces Candidacy (08:39)

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On February 10, 2007, Senator Barack Obama announces his candidacy for President of the United States, running against Hillary Clinton for the Democratic nomination. Black leaders resent that he bypassed them for approval, perceiving he catered to white people.

Earning Black Votes (08:39)

In March 2007, Hillary Clinton and Obama visit Selma and walk in commemoration of the Civil Rights march. Black leaders describe difficulties in choosing between known civil rights supporters and an African American candidate. Al Sharpton changes his perceptions.

Perceptions of Obama (09:17)

Obama concentrates on winning Iowa while Michelle Obama appeals to black voters in South Carolina. African American communities question Obama's racial identity. At his Iowa caucus victory eally, he addresses cynics; the victory changed perceptions about his ability to win the presidency.

New Hampshire Loss (04:25)

Clinton wins New Hampshire. She and her husband outrage black leaders with questionable race remarks, threatening to divide the Democrat Party. At the Primary Debate, Obama receives questions about pushing racism as an issue.

South Carolina Victory (05:40)

In South Carolina, Obama downplays race, relating to white voters. He addresses commonalities in his victory speech. Bill Clinton insinuates he is another Jesse Jackson; Michael Eric Dyson describes how he differed from previous black candidates.

Obama in the Lead for Nomination (03:56)

Senators Edward Kennedy and John Lewis endorse Obama. By February 2008, Obama wins 11 straight primaries and caucuses. John McCain wins the Republican nomination.

Political Liability (05:52)

Obama’s pastor, Jeremiah Wright, goes on sabbatical, taking a cruise. The media runs clips of his most inflammatory remarks regarding race, war, patriotism, and American government. The reverend's comments negatively impact Obama's campaign.

Obama's Race Speech (11:40)

In March 2008, Wright is dismissed from. He upsets some African American leaders, finding comparisons of white and black hardships too idealistic and untruthful.

Media and Race (10:19)

A reporter interviews Obama about his background. At the Minnesota primary victory rally, Obama announces he is the Democrat Party's presidential nominee. The media highlights rumors about his racism, religion, and patriotism; "The New Yorker’s" cover features a satirical illustration of the Obamas.

Highlighting Whiteness (02:10)

At the August 2008 Democratic National Convention, John Kerry speaks to Obama’s patriotism, having his white, World War II veteran uncle stand up for tribute.

Governor Sarah Palin (07:40)

In August 2008, McCain and Obama announce their running mates, Sarah Palin and Joe Biden. Palin is radically conservative, pushing racist and hurtful rumors while invigorating the Republican campaign. Biden corrects notions that Obama is Muslim and unpatriotic.

2008 General Election Day (10:24)

Obama addresses his grandmother’s death in North Carolina. In Georgia, Sharpton hosts a Watch Night Service where John Lewis speaks. Obama is declared the next president of the United States, giving his acceptance speech in Chicago.

President Elect (03:04)

Obama addresses economic problems while Bush remains in office; he inherits two wars and a financial crisis. Black leaders explain how Obama's presidency changed perceptions of what black people could be in America.

Credits: Obama: In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union, Part 2 (02:13)

Credits: Obama: In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union, Part 2