This study focused on the historical perspectives surrounding first-year African American male students at both Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs). Through an examination of archival documents, narratives, and scholarly analyses, this research illuminated the evolving perceptions of these students within the broader context of higher education. By contrasting the experiences of African American males in these distinct institutional settings, the study uncovered nuanced insights into the ways in which prevailing social, cultural, and educational paradigms have shaped their academic journeys and social integration. A qualitative method was utilized to capture information from participants for this case study. The participant group was a small purposeful sample of six African American males enrolled full-time at an HBCU or PWI. Three African American males from an HBCU and three from a PWI. The findings of this study indicated African American males perceive their involvement in informal social systems at HBCUs and PWIs; cultural assimilation related to African American male retention; and the socioeconomic status of African American males' families related to their retention rates at an HBCU or PWI. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]