Reinterpretation of Black Return and Nonreturn Migration to the South 1975-1980

Abstract

Commonly used classifications of return and nonreturn migrants based on birthplace and previous residence do not accurately reflect the extent of familial and social ties behind recent black migration to the southern US. Analysis of the household context of individual migration confirms evidence from individual interviews with migrants that thousands of black children and adults born outside the South are moving to the region as part of return migration. A reinterpretation of migration categories underscores social trends of overriding importance in explaining destination choices. (authors)