Short Answer 
The Second Great Migration saw Black Americans leave the South due to push factors like racial discrimination, Jim Crow laws, and poor economic conditions, while being attracted to the North by better wages, living conditions, and social equality opportunities. This migration significantly impacted American society by enriching culture, influencing labor markets, and contributing to the civil rights movement.
Step 1: Understanding Push Factors
Push factors are the conditions that drove Black Americans to leave the South during the Second Great Migration. Key issues included:
- Systematic denial of opportunity: Widespread racial discrimination limited job opportunities.
- Jim Crow Laws: These laws enforced racial segregation and suppressed the rights of Black citizens.
- Poor economic conditions: Many faced severe poverty and lack of employment options in the South.
Step 2: Identifying Pull Factors
Pull factors represent the attractive conditions in the North that drew Black Americans away from the South. Important pull factors included:
- Better wages: Higher earning potential in Northern jobs encouraged migration.
- Good living conditions: Access to better housing and community resources enhanced quality of life.
- Social equality opportunities: The North offered a more promising environment for civil rights and social advancement.
Step 3: The Impact of Migration
The Second Great Migration had a profound impact on American society, as it dramatically reshaped demographics in the North. As Black Americans moved, they helped to:
- Contribute to culture: They brought with them unique cultural influences that enriched Northern cities.
- Influence labor markets: The influx of Black workers influenced labor movements and economic growth.
- Challenge racial segregation: Their presence contributed to the civil rights movement aimed at combating inequality.