Why do people say Obama is black, when he is half white?

The perception of Barack Obama as black, despite being half white, stems from several historical, social, and personal factors:

1. Historical Racial Classification: In the United States, the "one-drop rule" historically classified anyone with any African ancestry as black. This rule, rooted in racial segregation and discrimination, has influenced how people perceive mixed-race individuals like Obama12.

2. Personal Identity and Cultural Affiliation: Obama himself has identified as black, reflecting his cultural and social affiliations. His autobiography, "Dreams from My Father," explores his journey to understand his black identity, which was influenced by his father's African heritage and his experiences in the African American community13.

3. Societal Perception and Politics: During his presidency, Obama was widely recognized as the first African American president, which reinforced his black identity in the public eye. This perception was also influenced by his political affiliations and his role in addressing racial issues in America34.

4. Mixed-Race Identity: While some view Obama as multiracial, his decision to identify as black on the census form aligns with how many Americans perceive and categorize individuals with African ancestry14. However, his mixed heritage has also been used to bridge racial divides and promote unity, as he often highlighted his connection to both black and white communities5.

Overall, Obama's black identity is a complex interplay of personal choice, historical context, and societal perception.