The republican party freed the black slaves, MLK was a Republican, the Dems saw an opportunity to capitalize on keeping people forever dependent on them through welfare. Republicans wanted everyone to be educated and better themselves, just like MLK, Dems only want their vote. They really don't give a crap about the person or how they live as long as they give them enough to make them want to come back for more.
Yes, the majority of them have been brainwashed and are staying on the reservation aka government dole living a minimum existence. One day people like Condi Rice, Colonel West, Clarence Thomas and even Herman Cain will get the word out, people might actually listen to someone that cares about the person instead of the vote.