The document discusses the history and influence of jazz music in America over the past century. It describes how jazz originated in New Orleans in the early 1900s among African Americans and was influenced by various musical styles. It then spread north to Chicago and evolved into different styles like swing and bebop. Jazz helped integrate white and black cultures and brought people together through its appeal. Iconic jazz musicians like Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald helped popularize the genre and advance civil rights despite facing discrimination. Today jazz continues to have a major impact on music and culture in America.