Black Reconstruction in America

by W.E.B. Du Bois
Black Reconstruction in America cover
Good Books rating 4.44
History, Identity, Culture, Sociology
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  • ID: 8832
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-22
  • ISBN: 9781412846677
  • Publisher: Transaction Publishers
  • Published: 2013-05-06
  • Reviews: 4

In 'Black Reconstruction in America,' W. E. B. Du Bois delves into the critical twenty years following the Civil War, focusing on the efforts and experiences of African Americans as they sought to rebuild the nation. Du Bois argues that the plight of the white working class globally is deeply connected to the history of American slavery, which laid the foundation for modern commerce and industry. He contends that the resulting color caste system, supported by white labor, led to the subordination of colored labor worldwide and ultimately contributed to the destruction of democracy, culminating in World War I and the Great Depression./n/nDu Bois's work is not just a historical account but also a profound analysis of the broader implications of racial dynamics on global labor and democracy. His perspective challenges readers to reconsider their views on the Negro race and the impact of historical events on contemporary society. This book offers a comprehensive look at a transformative period in American history and its far-reaching consequences.

Reviews
Medium · 2022-09-21
essential 4.50

The book argues that Reconstruction could have achieved much more equality if not for the abrupt intervention of white supremacists. It challenges traditional narratives and highlights the significant role of Black Americans in this period.

This review emphasizes the book's argument that Reconstruction was a pivotal moment that could have led to greater equality in America. The abrupt end to this period, driven by white supremacists, is seen as a critical failure. The reviewer appreciates how the book challenges traditional historical narratives and sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of Black Americans during Reconstruction. It's a powerful re-evaluation of a crucial era in American history.

Quick quotes

    Du Bois argues that Reconstruction could have brought much more equality if it had not been ended abruptly by White Supremacists.

    The pioneering work in the study of the role of Black Americans during Reconstruction.

    It challenges traditional narratives and highlights the significant role of Black Americans in this period.

Jacobin · 2022-09-21
essential 4.75

The book is praised for its emphasis on how racial oppression is intrinsically linked to capitalism. It is considered essential reading for understanding the intersection of race and economic systems.

This review highlights the book's emphasis on the connection between racial oppression and capitalism, a theme that is repeatedly underscored by the author. The reviewer sees the book as essential reading for anyone looking to understand the complex interplay between race and economic systems. They argue that Du Bois's work provides a critical perspective on how racial oppression is not just a social issue but deeply embedded in the economic structures of society. The book is lauded for its timeless relevance and its ability to shed light on contemporary issues.

Quick quotes

    In both Black Reconstruction and his subsequent writings, Du Bois repeatedly emphasizes how racial oppression is a product of capitalism.

    The book is essential reading for understanding the intersection of race and economic systems.

    Du Bois's work provides a critical perspective on how racial oppression is deeply embedded in the economic structures of society.

Reddit - AskHistorians · 2021-07-15
definitive 4.50

Du Bois' work is highly regarded for its accuracy in interpreting data, contrasting with earlier interpretations. It is considered a definitive revisionist text in African American history.

The discussion highlights Du Bois' reputation for accuracy, which is significantly higher than that of earlier historians like Dunning. This work is seen as a definitive revisionist text, offering a crucial re-evaluation of African American history. The reviewer appreciates the book's role in challenging and correcting previous historical narratives, making it an essential read for understanding the complexities of Reconstruction. The accuracy and depth of Du Bois' analysis are particularly praised.

Quick quotes

    Du Bois' reputation for accuracy in terms of interpreting the data is considerably higher than Dunning's nowadays.

    Black Reconstruction in America is the definitive revisionist text in African American history.

    The accuracy and depth of Du Bois' analysis are particularly praised.

S-USIH · 2019-06-18
compelling 4.00

The book is dense but filled with compelling narratives and analyses of the motivations, frustrations, and aspirations of participants in the Reconstruction process. It introduces the concept of a racial feedback loop that shaped the era.

The reviewer notes that while the book is dense, it is rich with compelling narratives and deep analyses. These elements provide a nuanced understanding of the motivations, frustrations, and aspirations of those involved in Reconstruction. The introduction of the racial feedback loop is particularly noteworthy, as it offers a unique perspective on how race and social conditions intertwined during this period. The book's depth and insight make it a valuable read for those interested in this historical era.

Quick quotes

    It's a dense book, but it's filled with compelling narratives and analyses of the motivations, frustrations and aspirations of participants in the process.

    Du Bois then introduces the racial feedback loop: 'Their slavery was a matter of both race and social condition, but the condition was limited.'

    The book's depth and insight make it a valuable read for those interested in this historical era.

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