The term "great white hope" is spelled using IPA phonetic transcription as /ɡreɪt waɪt hoʊp/. The word "great" is pronounced as /ɡreɪt/, with the "a" sound emphasized. "White" is pronounced as /waɪt/, with a long "i" sound. "Hope" is pronounced as /hoʊp/, with an emphasis on the "o" sound. This term has a controversial and racist history, referencing a white boxer who was supposed to defeat a black boxer, but failed. Its usage has since expanded to describe anyone expected to succeed against the odds.
Great white hope is a phrase that can be defined as a term used to describe a person, usually a white individual, who is hoped to bring about positive change or success in a particular field or situation, often in relation to a racial or social issue. This phrase originated in the early 20th century, primarily in the context of boxing, where it referred to a white boxer who was believed to have the potential to defeat a dominant black boxer. It gained wider usage beyond boxing, encompassing other domains like politics or business.
The term "great white hope" carries connotations of hope and expectations placed on a white person to counteract or overcome perceived dominance or superiority of individuals from other racial or ethnic backgrounds. It symbolizes the desire for a white person to restore a presumed supremacy or regain a position of power, often in response to perceived threats or changes in the existing social or political order.
As time progressed, the phrase also picked up negative connotations, as it came to be associated with racism and bigotry due to the underlying assumption that white individuals were viewed as superior and better equipped to rectify societal issues. The expression has subsequently been criticized for its inherent racial bias and perpetuation of divisive narratives, as it discounts the capabilities and potential of individuals from diverse backgrounds.