This book explores the historical origins of the African American marriage in the United States, discusses the current state of marriage in the African American community, and offers strategies for strengthening marriages. Following an introduction that emphasizes the spiritual basis of marriage and the high rate of divorce among African Americans, Part 1 discusses how the early development of the slave family denied couples traditional male and female roles in their unisons, the illegality of slave marriage, the forced termination of slave marriages, the impact of slavery on parent and child bonding, and the psychological effects of slavery on womanhood and manhood. The role of Christianity and spiritual songs in providing comfort to slave families is also described. Part 2 explores the aftershocks of slavery on African American families and includes chapters that discuss stereotypes that destroy oneness in a marriage, and emphasize the importance of basing a marriage on walking with Christ and standing firm against sin. Part 3 discusses strategies for restoring the foundation of marriage, including learning to love God’s way and mentoring African-American couples. Chapters included biblical references and close with discussion questions. Additional resources are listed. 103 references.