Books Like...
A Black Women's History of the United States by Daina Ramey Berry is a rich and insightful exploration of the history of Black women in America, spanning from 1619 to the present day. The book sheds light on stories that are often overlooked or not taught in traditional education, providing a deep dive into the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of African American women and their enslaved ancestors. The writing style is dense and fascinating, offering an expansive knowledge of history with abundant political and social context for each time period covered.
The book challenges the inadequacies of American public education in teaching Black history, especially the stories of Black women. It is described as a gem that everyone can benefit from reading, offering a different perspective on American history through the lens of Black women's experiences. Readers are left with a clear understanding of the significant contributions and sacrifices made by Black women throughout history, inspiring a deeper appreciation and awareness of their impact on shaping America.
If you liked A Black Women's History of the United States, here are the top 75 books to read next:
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Save:'Never Caught' by Erica Armstrong Dunbar is a compelling narrative that delves into the life of Ona Judge, a courageous woman who escaped from slavery in the household of George and Martha Washington. Through meticulous research and storytelling, Dunbar paints a vivid picture of Ona's struggles, determination, and pursuit of freedom. The book challenges the myths surrounding the institution of slavery and humanizes the individuals involved in this historical period, offering valuable insights into the complexities of early American slavery and the moral dilemmas faced by prominent figures like the Founding Fathers.
Dunbar's writing style is engaging and thought-provoking, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the injustices of slavery while also highlighting stories of hope and resilience. By bringing Ona Judge's narrative to life, the book sheds light on the untold stories of individuals who made a significant impact on American history, emphasizing the importance of remembering and learning from the past.
The men and women who lived on George and Martha Washington’s estate must have marveled at the peculiar snow, but whatever excitement the unusual weather brought was most certainly replaced by concern... 'Harvest of Empire: A History of Latinos in America' by Juan Gonzalez is a comprehensive exploration of the intertwined history between Latin America and the United States. The book delves into the reasons behind the south-north migration of Latinos and sheds light on the impact of US military and economic interventions in Latin American countries. Through personal accounts and historical analysis, Gonzalez uncovers the prejudice, discrimination, and challenges faced by Latinos in the US, while also highlighting their significant contributions to American culture. The writing style is described as engaging, lively, and informative, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the complexities of Latino immigration and cultural integration in the US.
The arrival of European explorers to America began the most astounding and far-reaching encounter between cultures in the history of civilization. It brought together two portions of the human race th...'The Deviant's War' by Eric Cervini is a gripping account of the early history of LGBTQ advocacy in the United States, focusing on the life and struggles of Frank Kameny. The book delves into the battles faced by Kameny and the LGBTQ community, highlighting the challenges, activism, and spirit of the movement during a tumultuous period. Through engaging prose, the author brings to light the injustices, discrimination, and courage of those who fought for equality, providing a detailed narrative of a pivotal era in LGBTQ history.
The narrative not only captures the personal journey of Kameny but also intertwines it with the broader context of societal and political events, such as the Vietnam War, civil rights movements, and the Red Scare. By exploring Kameny's fight against discrimination and his advocacy for LGBTQ rights, the book sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of history, offering valuable insights into the struggles and triumphs of the early Gay Liberation movement.
'Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America' by Michael Harriot is a groundbreaking piece of nonfiction that presents the true history of the United States from a Black perspective. Through a combination of humor, compassion, and extensive research, Harriot uncovers the untold stories of Black families in America, shedding light on the country's racial history with an unapologetic and honest approach. Despite the heavy subject matter, Harriot's writing style is engaging, accessible, and even funny at times, making the book both informative and entertaining for readers of all backgrounds.
This book, 'A Queer History of the United States' by Michael Bronski, provides a comprehensive look at the history of the American queer community from European colonization to 1990. It covers a wide range of topics, from the early American history to post-WWII era, offering analysis and insights into the motivations behind historical events. The author includes quotes from ordinary people struggling with their sexuality throughout history, shedding light on both the oppression and support within the community. The book delves into various aspects of queer history, offering a broader view of non-heteronormative behavior beyond just gay history.
If you were to ask average Americans when lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender history started in this nation, some would cite the Stonewall “riots” that took place in New York’s Greenwich Village ...- #7
Save:"Stony the Road: Reconstruction, White Supremacy, and the Rise of Jim Crow" by Henry Louis Gates Jr. delves into the post-Civil War era in the United States, focusing on the struggles faced by African Americans for equality amidst the violent counter-revolution that aimed to subjugate them. Through a war of images and ideas, Gates illustrates the enduring racist stain on the American psyche, portraying how African Americans have fought against white supremacist and racist acts to secure their rights and humanity. examines the failure of Reconstruction in the South, the impact of Jim Crow laws, and the systematic oppression faced by African Americans in the quest for equality.
The writing of this book was occasioned by a documentary film series that I was producing for PBS concerning the period after the Civil War known as Reconstruction (1865–1877)—when the United States, ... 'Seeing Gender: An Illustrated Guide to Identity and Expression' by Iris Gottlieb is an educational and comprehensive guide that explores topics related to gender, identity, sexuality, and intersectionality. Through colorful illustrations and engaging writing, the author covers a wide range of subjects including queer history, BIPOC communities, social issues, and personal anecdotes. is praised for its ability to break down complex topics in a way that is accessible to readers of all ages, making it a valuable resource for individuals looking to learn beyond traditional gender norms.
With a focus on inclusivity and understanding, 'Seeing Gender' delves into historical and personal narratives to provoke thought and discussion on gender structures and LGBTQ+ issues. is not only informative but also thought-provoking, humorous, and visually captivating, making it a perfect tool for those seeking to educate themselves or others on diverse identities and expressions.
LatinoLand: A Portrait of America's Largest and Least Understood Minority by Marie Arana is a sweeping exploration of Hispanic life in America. The book intertwines personal narratives, historical insights, and over 200 interviews to highlight the diverse contributions Latinos make to society. Arana begins her narrative with her family's arrival in Miami in the 1950s, capturing the growth of the Latino population and emphasizing the complexities of Hispanic identity. Readers are taken through a rich array of themes, from historical injustices to contemporary success stories, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of the Latino community in the United States.
Arana's writing style is engaging and brisk, making complex topics accessible to the reader. She combines a celebratory tone with poignant observations about cultural identity, assimilation, and the need for greater representation. The book reads like a series of colorful portraits rather than a monotonous history, providing a fresh perspective on the Latino experience. Though some critiques point to a lack of depth in certain areas, the overall narrative captivates with its multitude of voices and perspectives, urging a deeper understanding of this vibrant and essential part of American society.
'An African American and Latinx History of the United States' by Paul Ortiz is a powerful and eye-opening exploration of the intertwined histories of Black and Latinx communities in the United States. Readers found the book to be thought-provoking, educational, and a refreshing addition to both personal and classroom libraries. The author skillfully narrates the struggles, triumphs, and contributions of marginalized groups, shedding light on forgotten or suppressed stories that are integral to U.S. history. The writing style is described as detailed, authoritative, and enthralling, making the book accessible and engaging for readers of all backgrounds.
The foremost issue facing the Americas in the Age of Revolution—roughly from the 1770s to the 1840s—was the future of slavery in a hemisphere bristling with anticolonial insurgencies. In 1780, Peru’s ...
