In an attempt to shine light on the most pressing problem facing young African-American males, the gangsta-thug image and enthusiastic embrace of society’s stereotypes, the author conducted a survey in 2002 of 756 African-American males between the ages of 13 and 19 in Los Angeles and Atlanta, gauging the attitudes, perceptions, and basic knowledge of young African-American men regarding African-American public figures. Using a realness scale, the author examined the perceptions of young African-Americans regarding the authenticity or realness of African-American icons. Based on the results of the survey and the thesis drawn from the results, this book suggests that in order to be successful in life, young African-American men must move beyond the gangsta-thug model to embrace a diverse pool of knowledge and various perspectives and worldviews. The intent of the book is to provide a better grasp of the various dynamics influencing the identity of young African-American males in the United States during these first years of the 21st century. There is an urgent need to do something to counter the negative internal and external influences shaping the lives of a generation of young African-American men. The book is divided into 11 chapters focusing on excuses, symbols of defiance, roots of the African-American rebel in sport, lost currency, popular culture, the criminal justice system, black-on-black violence, black icons, and redefining authenticity. The book concludes by summarizing the American Paradox. Appendix