Walter Lee Younger Thesis

Imagine living in an environment where someone is constantly discriminated against because of their cultural background. Because of cultural prejudices, many people are unable to advance their economic status. This was a common problem that many African American men faced in the 1950s. The struggle of men constantly trying to help their family out of poverty was often prioritized over their family's desires. In Lorraine Hansberry’s play “A Raisin in the Sun”, Walter Lee Younger is focused on earning money and hopes to reap the benefits that come with wealth despite his family’s moral compass. He believes that money will solve all of his family's problems, but as the story progresses he finds that standing up for his family is more important

When Walter's father died, his family was going to receive a check from a life insurance policy. Walter planned to use the insurance money to open a liquor store and financially prosper. His mother though, would not let him do this though because it was unholy and an immoral way to make money. Walter, who was already bitter because he was a chauffeur, felt deprived. He saw an opportunity to make money and grew increasingly resentful because his family would not allow him to pursue those avenues, instead his family wanted to buy a home they could call their own. Ultimately, his mother chose to buy a house, which is located in a white neighborhood called Clybourne Park. The family is thrilled that they will have their own home but Walter is furious. He tells his mother that she has butchered his dreams. Even though Walter said this, his mother still puts a down payment on the house and gives the remaining $6,500 to Walter. Walter's mom tells him to put $3,000 in a bank account for Beneatha, his sister, for schooling. She lets Walter control how to spend the rest of the money. Walter decides that he has a better idea. He gives all of the money to a buddy, who is supposed to obtain a liquor license, however, his buddy never gets one. Walter later admits to his family that he never put the money away for his sister's schooling and had lost it all. With all that had happened, Walter’s wife, Ruth, is not considering aborting her