TikTok Video Debunks Myth of Unhygienic Black People with Historical Evidence

The persistent myth of Black people's inherent uncleanliness is a harmful stereotype with deep historical roots. A recent TikTok video by @HistoireBoyJimmy challenges this misconception, presenting evidence that contradicts this narrative. The video uses historical accounts from 15th-18th century European explorers in Central Africa to show that, contrary to popular belief, many African populations were highly attuned to hygiene, bathing frequently and utilizing fragrant plants for personal care. This stands in stark contrast to the often unsanitary conditions and infrequent bathing common in European cities of that era. "This myth was not based on fact, but on a deliberate attempt to dehumanize and justify the horrors of slavery and colonization," explains @HistoireBoyJimmy in the video. The video's use of historical images and texts strengthens its argument. This debunking of a long-held stereotype is an important contribution to the ongoing conversation about racial bias and historical accuracy.