Categoria: Current

Kelly Ross’s “Slavery, Surveillance, and Genre in Antebellum United States Literature” offers a compelling and insightful exploration of the intersection of slavery, surveillance, and genre in the antebellum United States literary landscape. Through meticulous research and engaging analysis, Ross delves into the complex ways in which these themes intertwine and shape the literary production of the era, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of antebellum American literature.

Ross’s analysis of the intersection of slavery and surveillance is particularly compelling. By examining a diverse array of literary texts, including fugitive slave narratives and gothic novels, Ross skillfully demonstrates how the pervasive system of surveillance in the antebellum period influenced the production and reception of literary works. Her nuanced exploration of the ways in which enslaved individuals navigated and resisted surveillance adds a crucial layer of understanding to the broader discourse on slavery and its impact on literary expression.

Furthermore, Ross’s examination of genre in antebellum literature is both broad and illuminating. She adeptly traces the evolution of genre conventions in response to the shifting sociopolitical landscape, particularly in relation to the abolitionist movement. By highlighting the distinct characteristics of fugitive slave narratives published before and after the rise of the institutional abolitionist movement, Ross offers valuable insights into the ways in which genre functioned as a tool for both individual expression and political advocacy. Her analysis of espionage tropes and their transformation within the context of slavery narratives is particularly noteworthy, showcasing the dynamic nature of the genre in response to changing historical and cultural forces.

In addition to her incisive analysis of literary texts, Ross’s work is underpinned by a sophisticated engagement with genre theory and its implications for the study of literature. Her nuanced approach to genre as a site of contestation and negotiation, rather than a rigid classification system, enriches the scholarly discourse on literary form and its relationship to broader cultural and institutional contexts. By foregrounding how genre reflects and shapes the experiences of authors, texts, and readers, Ross offers a compelling framework for understanding the dynamic interplay between literary production and sociopolitical forces.

Moreover, Ross’s meticulous attention to historical and institutional contexts provides a rich foundation for her analysis, allowing readers to appreciate the intricate web of influences that shaped antebellum American literature. Her exploration of the institutional abolitionist movement and its impact on the production of slave narratives offers a nuanced understanding of how broader political and social agendas shaped literary texts. This historical grounding lends depth and complexity to Ross’s exploration, situating the literary works she examines within their specific cultural and ideological milieus.

Ross’s work also sheds light on the ways in which surveillance and genre intersect in antebellum literature. By tracing the migration of surveillance from the literature of slavery to crime, gothic, and detective fiction, Ross argues for the existence of deep, often unexamined, interconnections between genre and race. Her analysis of slave narratives from the 1820s and 1830s, a transformational period during which US abolition activists began demanding immediate emancipation and developing national institutions, offers a compelling examination of the surveillance mechanisms within the slave system and the varied and creative ways enslaved people resisted this pervasive surveillance. Ross’s exploration of how these narratives tested out different ways to frame their stories within the context of the evolving abolitionist discourse provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between literary form and sociopolitical change.

Furthermore, Ross’s discussion of the genres constituting the literature of surveillance, including slave narratives and the African American gothic, as well as criminal confessions and detective fiction, offers a comprehensive analysis of the socially and historically specific conflict: the racial power dynamics of the antebellum slave system.

Her engagement with recent genre theorists, including Wai Chee Dimock, Jeremy Rosen, and Travis M. Foster, enriches her analysis, offering a nuanced understanding of the genre as a fluid set of conventions that make visible the social functions of literature and its role in articulating broader social and ideological formations. Ross’s work thus contributes to a deeper understanding of how literary genres change over time, fulfilling specific functions for their particular present and audience and fading once that function loses its urgency. Her analysis of these constellations of characteristics and the functions they fulfill offers a compelling framework for understanding the dynamic nature of literary genre in response to historical and cultural forces.

In conclusion, “Slavery, Surveillance, and Genre in Antebellum US Literature” is a tour de force that enriches our understanding of antebellum American literature and invites readers to reconsider how literary form and content intersect with broader historical and cultural forces. Kelly Ross’s meticulous scholarship, incisive analysis, and nuanced engagement with genre theory make this book essential reading for scholars interested in the complexities of antebellum American literature. By illuminating the intricate connections between slavery, surveillance, and genre, Ross offers a compelling framework for understanding the multifaceted nature of literary expression in a pivotal period of American history.

Ross’s work is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper appreciation of the complexities of literary production in the antebellum United States. It stands as a significant contribution to the field of American literary studies, offering a compelling framework for understanding the multifaceted nature of literary expression in a pivotal period of American history, but this book also invites readers to reconsider how literary form and content intersect with broader historical and cultural forces.

by Giovanni Santoro

In her last book titled “Bound by Bondage: Slavery and the Creation of a Northern Gentry,” Nicole Saffold Maskiell, an Assistant Professor in the Department of History at the University of South Carolina, opens with a compelling depiction of a manhunt, strategically engaging the reader in the narrative’s core. This particular scene functions as a poignant ingress into the examination of slavery and its profound ramifications on the establishment of a northern gentry within the seventeenth-century Dutch mid-Atlantic colony.

Maskiell adeptly employs the manhunt as a metaphor to encapsulate the broader themes expounded upon in her book, thereby underscoring the intricacies and subtleties inherent in the historical milieu. Through the application of this narrative technique, the author proficiently seizes the reader’s attention and establishes the thematic ambiance for the ensuing meticulous analysis.

Entitled “Neger: Race, Slavery, and Status in the Dutch Northeast (1640s–60s),” chapter 1 furnishes a comprehensive historical account of the nascent phase of slavery in the Dutch colony of New Netherland, presently recognized as the northeastern United States. The contention posited by the author revolves around the pivotal role played by race and slavery in delineating social standings and hierarchies within the influential strata of New Netherland’s colonial elite from the inception of their colonial endeavors.

Initiating with a depiction of a Black man compelled to toil in the wooded expanse of northern New Netherland in the early winter of 1660, the chapter delineates the relentless, physically taxing, and commonplace nature of the man’s labor, which was subject to surveillance. In the course of his labor, Petrus Stuyvesant observed the man and expressed a desire to appropriate his services. Stuyvesant proffered compensation to the man’s enslaver, Jeremias van Rensselaer, proposing either one of his own slaves or the acquisition of another enslaved individual from the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Consequently, the man’s fate transitioned into the hands of another, prompting Jeremias van Rensselaer to lament about him in a letter to his elder brother, Jan Baptist, utilizing derogatory language.

This incident serves as a focal point for the author to underscore the imperative of centering the daily experiences and circumstances of enslaved individuals. The chapter, thus, provides a broader contextual framework for comprehending enslavement within the colony. It unveils the genesis of racial sensibilities among white colonists, their direct affiliations with enslavement hubs in South America and the Caribbean, and the extensive impact of their local and, ultimately, regional authority. The author contends that the leadership of the Dutch colony was deeply enmeshed in and actively participated in the overarching Atlantic enterprise of enslavement.

Chapter 2, titled “Kolonist: Slaveholding and the Survival of Expansive Anglo-Dutch Elite Networks (1650s–90s),” scrutinizes the intricate dynamics of slaveholding and its pivotal role in sustaining expansive Anglo-Dutch elite networks during the mid-17th to late 17th centuries in the Dutch Northeast.

Maskiell conducts a meticulous examination of the interconnection between slaveholding and the preservation of elite networks, elucidating the profound influence of slavery on the social and economic fabric of the region. Commencing with a poignant portrayal of a public auction in New Amsterdam, where a mother and her child, identified solely as “female negro with a child,” were auctioned as property, the chapter employs this powerful scene as a focal point for exploring the dehumanizing impact of slavery and its entrenched position within colonial society.

The author adeptly intertwines historical narratives, archival records, and primary sources to illustrate the profound entanglement of slaveholding with the survival and prosperity of Anglo-Dutch elite networks. By examining the economic and social significance of slave labor within these networks, Maskiell unveils the intricate web of relationships and dependencies that underpinned the colonial economy.

Moreover, the chapter delves into the personal stories of individuals engaged in slaveholding, presenting a nuanced portrayal of their motivations, challenges, and interactions within the broader socio-economic landscape. Through this methodological approach, Maskiell humanizes historical actors while shedding light on the complex power dynamics inherent in the era.

Chapter 3, entitled “Naam: Race, Family, and Connection on the Borderlands (1680s–90s),” explores the complex dynamics of race, family, and connection in the borderlands of the Dutch Northeast during the late 17th century.

The chapter initiates with the narratives of two men, Tom and Robert, both local entrepreneurs in Albany. Despite their similarities, a salient distinction existed between them: Tom was enslaved by Robert. The author employs this example to elucidate the ways in which race and slavery delineated social hierarchies and power dynamics in the region.
Maskiell delves into the personal stories of Tom and Robert, providing a nuanced portrayal of their interactions and relationships within the broader socio-economic landscape. Through this methodological approach, the author humanizes historical actors while illuminating the intricate power dynamics at play.

Furthermore, the chapter explores the manners in which family connections and reputational networks solidified relationships within and across colonies, offering avenues for trade and wealth accumulation. The author posits that notions of mastery and conceptions of status interwoven enslaved individuals and their enslavers over two centuries as a regional slaveholding culture evolved.

The chapter also accentuates the ways in which enslaved individuals cultivated their own networks parallel to the elites who held their bonds. Despite the systems of bondage severing ties, they established, maintained, and utilized alliances across the Northeast.

Chapter 4, entitled “Bond: Forging an Anglo-Dutch Slaveholding Northeast (1690s–1710s),” scrutinizes the intricate process of establishing an Anglo-Dutch slaveholding culture in the Northeast during the late 17th to early 18th centuries.

Maskiell conducts a meticulous examination of the convergence of Anglo-Dutch influences in shaping the slaveholding practices and cultural landscape of the region. The chapter commences with a vivid portrayal of a journey from New England to Albany, wherein a cohort of elites encounters and detains a “suspicious” Black man, exemplifying the pervasive surveillance and control exercised over the movements of enslaved individuals.

The author adeptly interweaves historical narratives, archival records, and primary sources to illustrate the intertwined influences of Anglo-Dutch networks in the evolution of a slaveholding culture. By scrutinizing the interactions and collaborations among Anglo-Dutch elites, Maskiell unveils the intricate web of relationships and power dynamics underpinning the expansion of slavery in the Northeast.

Furthermore, the chapter delves into the unified purpose exhibited by regional elites in monitoring the actions of Black individuals and establishing control over their movements. This exploration sheds light on the integral role played by surveillance and control in sustaining the slaveholding system.

Moreover, Maskiell underscores the interconnectedness of trade, linguistic proficiency, and cultural touchpoints in shaping the interconnected world of enslaved individuals, notwithstanding the systems of bondage intended to sever their ties.

Chapter 5, titled “Family: Kinship, Ambition, and Fear in a Time of Rebellions (1710s–20s),” delves into the intricate dynamics of family, kinship, ambition, and fear within the context of rebellions during the 1710s-20s. The chapter commences with the poignant story of Isabel, a young girl separated from her family and relocated from the Hudson Valley to Boston, symbolizing the profound impact of forced relocations on the enslaved community of Livingston Manor. This narrative sets the stage for an exploration of the interconnected lives of enslaved individuals and the elite Livingstons, shedding light on the complexities of power, control, and familial ties during a tumultuous period.

Nicole Saffold Maskiell meticulously unravels the familial and social structures within the enslaved community, emphasizing the profound disruptions caused by the actions of the elite. Through the lens of Isabel’s narrative and the experiences of other enslaved individuals, the chapter exposes the pervasive fear and instability characterizing the lives of the enslaved during this period.

The author adeptly interlaces historical narratives, archival remnants, and familial connections to construct a vivid portrayal of the interconnected worlds of the enslaved and the elite.

Furthermore, the chapter delves into the broader historical context, contextualizing the actions of the enslaved within the borderland conflicts of the early eighteenth century. By highlighting the regional white culture of fear and the brutal response to the 1712 New York Slave revolt, Maskiell underscores the far-reaching impact of the domestic narratives and political actions of bonded people on the wider social fabric.

Chapter 6, titled “Market: Creating Kinship-Based Empires United by Slaveholding (1730s–50s),” delves into the intricate dynamics of the market and its pivotal role in establishing kinship-based empires united by slaveholding during the 1730s-50s. Nicole Saffold Maskiell adeptly navigates through the economic landscape of the mid-eighteenth century, elucidating the profound impact of enslaved labor on the burgeoning market economy and the interconnected lives of both enslaved individuals and the elite slaveholding families.

The chapter offers a vivid portrayal of the evolving landscape, where orchards and fields adorned the Out Ward, bearing witness to a production cycle rooted in the Dutch colonial era. Maskiell masterfully paints a picture of the enduring legacy of enslaved labor, underscoring the continuity of economic activities and the enduring presence of enslaved laborers in bustling marketplaces. This portrayal serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of slavery on the economic and social fabric of the region.

Furthermore, the chapter delves into the complexities of kinship-based empires, emphasizing the interconnectedness of elite white families and the pervasive influence of slaveholding on their economic endeavors. Maskiell meticulously unravels the intricate web of familial connections and economic pursuits, showcasing the interwoven nature of slaveholding and the expansion of elite white families’ property footprint. The author adeptly navigates through the historical landscape, revealing the enduring ties between slaveholding elites and the economic structures that underpinned their wealth and influence.

Moreover, the chapter explores legislative measures aimed at regulating the activities of enslaved individuals in the marketplace, underscoring the efforts of slaveholding elites to maintain control and suppress the economic agency of the enslaved population. Maskiell skillfully exposes the power dynamics at play, shedding light on attempts to curtail the economic activities of enslaved individuals and the underlying fears of contagion and disruption harbored by the slaveholding class.

Chapter 7, titled “Identity: Navigating Racial Expectations to Escape Slavery (1750s–60s),” scrutinizes the intricate dynamics of identity and its role in navigating racial expectations to escape slavery during the 1750s-60s. Nicole Saffold Maskiell adeptly navigates through the complexities of racial identity and the pervasive impact of slavery on the lives of the enslaved population.

The chapter commences with the poignant story of four enslaved men who escaped from the Livingston estate, highlighting the challenges of navigating racial expectations and the pervasive fear of recapture. Maskiell masterfully paints a picture of the enduring legacy of slavery, emphasizing the pervasive impact of bondage on the lives of the enslaved population and the enduring struggle for freedom.

Furthermore, the chapter examines the complexities of racial identity, emphasizing the fluidity of racial categories and the pervasive impact of slavery on the construction of racial hierarchies. Maskiell meticulously unravels the intricate web of racial expectations and the pervasive impact of slavery on the lives of the enslaved population, highlighting the challenges of navigating racial categories and the enduring struggle for freedom.

Moreover, the chapter explores the broader historical context, contextualizing the actions of the enslaved within the wider landscape of the mid-eighteenth century. By highlighting the pervasive impact of slavery on the lives of the enslaved population and the enduring struggle for freedom, Maskiell underscores the far-reaching impact of domestic narratives and political actions of bonded people on the wider social fabric.

In the conclusion of “Bound by Bondage: Slavery and the Creation of a Northern Gentry,” Maskiell reflects on the complex and often contradictory nature of the Dutch colonial legacy in America. She posits that while the Dutch were instrumental in creating a prosperous northern gentry, this affluence was erected upon the labor of enslaved Africans and Indigenous peoples.

Maskiell acknowledges the distinctive aspect of the Dutch among European colonizers in their openness to intermarriage and the formation of alliances with Indigenous peoples. Nevertheless, she asserts that this collaboration often originated from economic motivations, and the Dutch were not exempt from the violence and exploitation inherent in colonialism observed elsewhere.

The author underscores the pivotal role of slavery in shaping the northern gentry, observing that, although not the principal slave traders in the Atlantic world, the Dutch were extensively engaged in the slave trade and possessed a substantial number of enslaved individuals in their colonies. The resultant wealth facilitated the establishment of a predominant elite class that wielded influence over the region for numerous centuries.

Despite the central role of slavery in the formation of this gentry, Maskiell posits that the Dutch colonial legacy in America transcends this institution. She highlights that the Dutch made enduring contributions to American culture and society, evident in their impact on art, architecture, and language.

Therefore, Maskiell asserts that the Dutch colonial legacy in America is intricate and multifaceted. While instrumental in the establishment of a prosperous northern gentry, the Dutch were also complicit in the exploitation and enslavement of marginalized peoples. Consequently, any attempt to comprehend the history of the region must confront these inherent contradictions and complexities.

In conclusion, “Bound by Bondage” stands as a compelling and thought-provoking exploration that delves deeply into the intricate dynamics of slavery’s influence on the formation of a northern gentry. Through a meticulous examination, Maskiell skillfully unravels the multifaceted tapestry of Dutch colonialism in America, inviting readers to engage with the complexities inherent in the historical narrative. The book not only serves as an illuminating retrospective but also as a catalyst for a broader societal introspection.

By shedding light on the often-overlooked aspects of Dutch colonialism, Maskiell challenges readers to confront the uncomfortable truths woven into the fabric of the region’s history. The narrative serves as a mirror, reflecting the nuanced and intricate connections between slavery, societal structures, and the establishment of a northern gentry. In doing so, the author prompts us to reassess our understanding of historical events, encouraging a deeper examination of the intersections between power, privilege, and the legacies of the past.

Moreover, “Bound by Bondage” extends its impact beyond the historical context, emphasizing the enduring consequences of this legacy on contemporary society. Maskiell invites readers to critically reflect on how the echoes of the past resonate in the present, shaping the sociocultural landscape. The book acts as a call to action, prompting individuals to acknowledge and grapple with the ongoing repercussions of historical injustices, fostering a more informed and empathetic approach to the complex issues surrounding race, inequality, and societal transformation.

Finally, through its nuanced analysis and insightful commentary, “Bound by Bondage” transcends the boundaries of conventional historical literature. It not only enriches our understanding of the past but also challenges us to actively participate in shaping a more equitable and just future by confronting the uncomfortable realities embedded in our shared history.

by Giovanni Santoro

In “Human Empire: Mobility and Demographic Thought in the British Atlantic World, 1500-1800,” Ted McCormick, an Associate Professor of History at Concordia University in Montreal, presents a meticulous and insightful examination of the influence of demographic governance on English developments during the specified historical epoch. McCormick’s scholarly work constitutes a valuable contribution to the field of early modern history, furnishing a nuanced comprehension of the intricate interplay between demographic governance, mobility, and power. Employing a diverse array of sources, including political treatises, travel narratives, and economic writings, the author elucidates the pivotal role played by demographic thought in shaping English political and social dynamics.

In particular, Chapter 1, titled “Mobility and Mutability in the Early Tudor Body Politic,” introduces the concept of demographic governance and its relevance in early modern England. McCormick contends that the Tudor era witnessed a paradigm shift in the conceptualization of English society, transitioning from a functional multitude-based body politic to a population characterized as mobile, mutable, and quantifiable. This transformation was instigated by factors such as urbanization, the ascendancy of the market economy, and the burgeoning significance of overseas trade.

A salient aspect of this novel governance approach was the accentuation of mobility. Authorities endeavored to regulate the movement of individuals within the country, especially focusing on the impoverished and vagrant, to uphold social order and prevent disease dissemination. Simultaneously, certain groups, such as skilled workers and entrepreneurs, were encouraged to be mobile to stimulate economic growth and colonial expansion.

Another integral facet of demographic governance was the emphasis on mutability, implying intentional interventions for population transformation. Policies addressing health and fertility enhancement, coupled with efforts to regulate morality and religious beliefs, underscored this focus on intentional transformation.

McCormick concludes that the Tudor era marked the inception of a governance paradigm characterized by a concentration on mobility and mutability, which significantly impacted English society and set the stage for modern imperialism and the evolution of demographic science.

Analytically, McCormick’s chapter serves as a valuable primer on demographic governance and its relevance in early modern England. He adeptly illustrates how this innovative governance approach was molded by a confluence of social, economic, and political factors, reflecting broader societal changes during this epoch. By underscoring the significance of mobility and mutability, the author lays the groundwork for his subsequent exploration of demographic thought in the British Atlantic world.

Chapter 2, titled “Marginality, Incivility and Degeneration in Elizabethan England and Ireland,” delves into the frameworks of demographic governance presented by Jean Bodin and Giovanni Botero, and their impact on English political thought.

McCormick posits that Bodin and Botero served as influential sources for English thinkers contending with demographic governance challenges in the late Tudor period. Both philosophers underscored the primacy of reason of state, advocating for the prioritization of state interests over individual rights and freedoms. Additionally, they shared concerns about degeneration, positing that populations could deteriorate in quality over time.

In the English context, these concepts were applied to marginalized groups, including vagrants, the Irish, and the impoverished. English authorities sought to regulate these groups through policies encompassing transportation, forced labor, and moral reform. Simultaneously, efforts were made to foster the mobility and productivity of specific groups, such as skilled workers and entrepreneurs.

McCormick contends that the demographic governance frameworks articulated by Bodin and Botero significantly influenced English political thought in the late Tudor period. These frameworks facilitated the emergence of a new governance approach characterized by a focus on reason of state, degeneration, and the regulation of marginalized groups.

However, McCormick’s chapter furnishes a comprehensive overview of the intellectual milieu within which English thinkers operated during the late Tudor period. He effectively demonstrates how Bodin’s and Botero’s ideas were adapted and applied to address the unique challenges of demographic governance in England and Ireland.

Chapter 3, titled “Beyond the Body Politic: Territory, Population, and Colonial Projecting,” scrutinizes the management of specific population groups in England during the late Tudor period, encompassing vagrants, the Irish, and the impoverished.

McCormick contends that English authorities endeavored to regulate these groups through diverse policies, including transportation, forced labor, and moral reform. These policies were motivated by a confluence of concerns related to social order, economic productivity, and religious and political stability.

Simultaneously, English authorities were immersed in colonial projecting, involving the establishment of overseas colonies and settlements. This process entailed the mobilization and transplantation of substantial populations across the Atlantic, necessitating meticulous planning and administration.

McCormick posits that the management of specific population groups in England during the late Tudor period was intricately intertwined with the evolution of colonial projecting. Both phenomena entailed the regulation of populations and the governance of mobility, driven by an array of economic, political, and religious considerations.

In Chapter 4, entitled “Transmutation, Quantification, and the Creation of Political Arithmetic,” the author explores the advent of political arithmetic and its import within the context of demographic governance.

McCormick asserts that political arithmetic signaled a pivotal shift in the conceptualization and administration of populations. It involved the application of mathematical and quantitative methodologies to population studies, propelled by factors such as the ascendance of empirical science, the development of novel statistical techniques, and the escalating significance of demographic data.

A salient characteristic of political arithmetic was its emphasis on transmutation, suggesting that populations could be deliberately altered through interventionist measures. This encompassed policies aimed at enhancing population health and fertility, alongside endeavors to regulate morality and religious convictions.

However, the author argues that political arithmetic embodied a fresh governance paradigm characterized by an emphasis on quantification and transmutation. This approach wielded far-reaching consequences for the management and regulation of populations, laying the groundwork for the inception of modern demographic science and the emergence of novel governance modalities.

Chapter 5, titled “Improving Populations in the Eighteenth Century,” directs attention to the rise of novel ideas and practices associated with population enhancement during the eighteenth century.

McCormick contends that the eighteenth century witnessed a burgeoning interest in population improvement, propelled by diverse factors such as the ascent of commercial society, advancements in medical and scientific knowledge, and the escalating importance of demographic data.

A prominent aspect of this contemporary approach to population improvement was its emphasis on promoting health and fertility. This involved a spectrum of policies and practices, ranging from the provision of medical care to the advocacy of healthy lifestyles and the encouragement of marriage and childbearing.

Another significant facet of this evolving approach to population improvement was its focus on regulating morality and behavior. This encompassed initiatives to propagate religious and moral values, coupled with policies aimed at curbing vice and immorality.

Hence, the author posits that the advent of novel ideas and practices related to population improvement in the eighteenth century represented a substantive paradigm shift in the management and regulation of populations. This innovative approach was characterized by an emphasis on health, fertility, and morality, reflective of broader transformations in English society during this epoch.

The conclusions of Ted McCormick’s “Human Empire: Mobility and Demographic Thought in the British Atlantic World, 1500-1800,” titled “Malthus, Demographic Governance, and the Limits of Politics,” represents the culmination of the book’s investigation into demographic governance and its broader implications. McCormick employs this section to reflect upon the presented ideas and their relevance to a comprehensive understanding of demographic governance and its inherent limitations.

McCormick delves into the influence of Thomas Malthus and his seminal work, “An Essay on the Principle of Population,” on the discourse surrounding demographic governance. He posits that Malthus’s contributions marked a departure from preceding approaches to demographic governance, particularly through his emphasis on the unalterable and universally applicable law of population growth. The author underscores the significance of Malthus’s arguments in challenging the assumptions and methodologies of early modern demographic governance, acknowledging the distinctiveness of Malthus’s views while recognizing their connections to conceptual frameworks developed by early modern projectors.

Furthermore, McCormick accentuates the broader implications of Malthus’s work, particularly regarding the degree to which population growth or decline could be subject to human control. He underscores the importance of contextualizing Malthus’s ideas within a broader historical framework of demographic governance, shedding light on the continuities and divergences that Malthus’s arguments present in relation to earlier approaches.

In conclusion, “Human Empire: Mobility and Demographic Thought in the British Atlantic World, 1500-1800” by Ted McCormick stands as a meticulously researched and thought-provoking exploration of demographic governance and its evolution over the centuries. McCormick’s insightful analysis sheds light on the intricate interplay between mobility, population dynamics, and political control in the British Atlantic world, providing a fresh perspective on how populations were managed and regulated during this period.

Through a detailed examination of key historical figures, ideas, and practices, the author adeptly traces the development of demographic thought from the early modern period to the emergence of new approaches in the eighteenth century. By delving into the works of thinkers such as Thomas Malthus and examining the impact of political arithmetic on governance, McCormick offers a comprehensive overview of shifting paradigms in population management and control.

Moreover, McCormick’s nuanced analysis of the limitations of politics in the face of demographic forces adds depth to the discussion, prompting readers to reconsider traditional notions of governance and control. By highlighting tensions between demographic agency and external interventions, the author challenges readers to reflect on the complexities of population dynamics and the challenges of governing diverse and mobile populations.

Therefore, “Human Empire” is a compelling and insightful work that will resonate with scholars and enthusiasts of history, sociology, and political science. McCormick’s engaging writing style, rigorous research, and nuanced analysis make this book a valuable contribution to the field of demographic studies, and it is a must-read for anyone seeking to comprehend the intersections of mobility, population, and governance in the British Atlantic world.

by Giovanni Santoro

During the epoch of the Jim Crow era in the Southern United States, a prevalent atmosphere of social and economic inequity reigned, distinguished by deeply ingrained racial biases and prejudicial treatments against individuals of African American descent. Against this backdrop, Mona Domosh, a distinguished scholar holding the position of Professor of Geography at Dartmouth, presents her seminal contribution titled “Disturbing Development in the Jim Crow South.” This scholarly endeavor adopts a critical perspective, engaging in a sophisticated analysis of the endeavors pursued by Black agrarian communities to attain land ownership and achieve economic self-reliance within the confines of the region.

Employing a comprehensive array of primary source materials including archival documents and oral testimonies, Domosh intricately dissects the manifold challenges confronted by Black agrarian populations under the oppressive strictures of the Jim Crow regime. Central to her analysis are multifaceted inquiries into the concerted efforts of Black farmers to secure land rights and economic autonomy. Her narrative traverses diverse thematic landscapes, encompassing the pivotal role played by the Farm Security Administration in fostering Black land acquisition, the hurdles encountered by Black agrarians in accessing financial credit and material resources, and the proactive endeavors of Black extension agents in disseminating agricultural knowledge and advocating for socio-economic advancement.

  In illuminating these empirical case studies, Domosh illuminates the catalytic role of grassroots initiatives in catalyzing transformative social change and community uplift. Emphasizing the indispensable role of pragmatic education and communal support mechanisms in ameliorating the tribulations faced by marginalized demographic cohorts, her scholarship underscores the enduring legacy of African American luminaries and extension agents in the perennial struggle for equitable social and economic progress.

Chapter 1 of Domosh’s monograph, entitled “Laura R. Daly and the United States Department of Agriculture,” undertakes a meticulous examination of the formidable influence wielded by Laura R. Daly within the bureaucratic echelons of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) during the formative decades of the 20th century. Central to Daly’s purview was her pivotal stewardship of the USDA’s Home Demonstration Work for Women and Girls initiative, particularly in the state of Alabama. Through an assiduous analysis of Daly’s annual reports and pragmatic interventions, Domosh unveils Daly’s steadfast commitment to ameliorating the living standards and agrarian methodologies of rural households, with a particular emphasis on empowering African American women and juveniles.

Daly’s operational modus operandi was characterized by a pragmatic emphasis on providing tangible assistance and pedagogical enlightenment to rural domiciles, imparting indispensable skills such as proficient canning techniques to augment sustenance preservation and domestic administration. By instituting these transformative programs, Daly aspired to imbue women and children residing within rural enclaves with a sense of self-reliance and agency, thereby engendering tangible enhancements in their overall quality of life.

Additionally, Chapter 1 elucidates the collaborative synergy engendered between Daly and her compatriots within the USDA’s bureaucratic apparatus, as they collectively endeavored to devise innovative methodologies for augmenting agricultural extension services. These concerted efforts proved instrumental in surmounting the myriad challenges confronting rural households, including fiscal constraints and resource paucities. Evident throughout the chapter is Daly’s unwavering dedication to her vocation and her impassioned commitment to uplifting marginalized constituencies through the dual conduits of pedagogical enlightenment and tangible assistance.

Moreover, Chapter 1 situates Daly’s tenure within the broader panorama of agricultural development and socio-political metamorphosis characterizing the Jim Crow South. By excavating the intricate interplay of racial dynamics, labor relations, and economic structures that indelibly shaped the existential realities of rural households during this epoch, Domosh’s scholarship underscores Daly’s catalytic role in engendering systemic change and advocating for social equity.

Chapter 2, titled “Home Demonstration Work and the Sustaining of Black Life,” embarks upon a comprehensive examination of the pivotal role played by home demonstration initiatives in fortifying the fabric of Black livelihoods within the precincts of the Jim Crow South. Spotlighted within this chapter are the concerted efforts of Luella Hanna and Laura Daly, two Black female pioneers who assumed the mantle of home demonstration agents within Alabama during the embryonic years of the 20th century. Their collective endeavors were undergirded by an overarching objective of ameliorating the living conditions and agricultural methodologies of rural households, with a particular emphasis on uplifting African American women and progeny.

Chapter 2 lays bare the formidable obstacles encountered by Black women domiciled within the Cotton Belt, who were compelled to navigate the exigencies of agricultural labor whilst concurrently discharging their domestic obligations. In response to these challenges, Hanna and Daly spearheaded a multifaceted campaign aimed at furnishing practical assistance and pedagogical enlightenment to rural households, imparting indispensable proficiencies such as horticultural cultivation, culinary preservation, and rudimentary medical care. These educational initiatives were instrumental in fostering a sense of empowerment and self-sufficiency amongst women and juveniles residing within rural enclaves, thus precipitating palpable enhancements in their quality of life.

Furthermore, Chapter 2 delves into the broader socio-economic milieu that undergirded the existential realities of rural households during this epoch, elucidating the systemic devaluation of Black lives perpetuated by the exigencies of plantation agriculture. Despite the constrictive strictures imposed by the USDA’s extension service, Hanna and Daly’s collaborative endeavors served as an act of defiance, challenging prevailing power dynamics and advocating for social justice.

The chapter additionally scrutinizes the catalytic role of photography in documenting the multifarious activities undertaken by home demonstration agents under the auspices of the USDA, with the visual oeuvre of E. H. Green serving as a poignant testament to the transformative impact of educational initiatives and communal support structures within rural enclaves.
In Chapter 3, titled “The Movable School and the Aesthetics of Uplift,” the focus lies on elucidating the concept of the movable school and its pivotal role in advancing agricultural education and fostering social uplift within the Jim Crow South. The chapter primarily delves into an innovative educational strategy pioneered by local authorities at the Tuskegee Institute, which was tailored to address the specific challenges confronting Black tenant and sharecropping families in Alabama during the early 20th century.

Central to the discourse is the notable significance accorded to the movable school as a dynamic mode of intervention, effectively circumventing logistical barriers and legal encumbrances confronted by Black agrarian populations, often ensnared within the confines of plantation labor arrangements. By delivering agricultural insights and homemaking innovations directly to rural farmers in a mobile format, the movable school facilitated immediate and tangible improvements in agricultural methodologies and living conditions.

Furthermore, the chapter situates this educational initiative within the broader framework of racial uplift, delineating the concerted endeavors of Black luminaries and personnel affiliated with the Tuskegee Institute to ameliorate the socio-economic plight of rural enclaves. The discussion interlaces with an exploration of the intricate web of unfree labor systems pervading the Cotton Belt and the formidable challenges impeding the sustenance of Black livelihoods.

Moreover, the chapter ventures into an analysis of the aesthetic and visual representation of the movable school, underscoring the indispensable role played by photography in documenting its transformative impact.

Chapter 4, entitled “Prairie Farms and the Struggle for Black Land Ownership,” casts its analytical gaze upon the Prairie Farms resettlement community, conceived as a pioneering experiment under the aegis of the New Deal, aimed at effectuating substantive reforms in the lives of Black individuals through agricultural enlightenment and cooperative communal living.

The narrative commences by delineating the concerted endeavors of the Farm Security Administration (FSA) to establish model Black communities such as Prairie Farms, envisioned as bastions of Black landownership and resistance against white supremacist structures. Administered by a Black community manager, Coleman Camp, and overseen by officials from the Tuskegee Institute, the community embodied a longstanding commitment to fostering self-sustaining Black settlements.

Eminently, the chapter juxtaposes this idealistic vision with the harsh realities encountered by Prairie Farms from its inception, beset by allegations of mismanagement and criminality that cast a pall over its prospects for success. Photographs captured by FSA photographer Marion Post Wolcott serve as visual testimonies, capturing the residents of Prairie Farms engrossed in endeavors aimed at enhancing their socio-economic standing.

The ensuing discourse navigates the intersection between Prairie Farms’ utopian aspirations and the entrenched racist milieu of the Jim Crow South, where Black landownership engendered vehement resistance and prejudice. Despite the tireless efforts of Tuskegee officials and Black personnel within the USDA to bolster Black land tenure, Prairie Farms found itself ensnared in a web of systemic barriers impeding the realization of its objectives.
Ultimately, Prairie Farms emerges as a microcosm emblematic of the broader struggle for Black landownership and self-sufficiency amidst the pervasive backdrop of institutionalized racism. The chapter elucidates the intricate interplay of race, power dynamics, and economic structures that shaped the experiences of Black agrarians within the Jim Crow South, underscoring the enduring legacy of resilience and resistance in the face of adversity.

Chapter 5, “Black Extension Work in the U.S. South and Liberal Development Overseas,” intricately dissects the symbiotic relationship between Black extension endeavors in the U.S. South and the paradigm of liberal development abroad. The chapter foregrounds the pivotal role assumed by Black extension agents in spearheading agricultural education and catalyzing socio-economic uplift within the Jim Crow South, whilst concurrently elucidating the assimilation of these initiatives into post-war reconstruction agendas overseas.

Central to the narrative are Black extension agents, distinguished African American individuals entrusted with the mantle of the Cooperative Extension Service in the United States. This federally backed program was designed to furnish research-based information and educational programs to various demographic cohorts in rural communities, encompassing agricultural producers, small-scale entrepreneurs, youth, and families.

A detailed exposition is furnished regarding the pivotal contributions of Black extension agents in extending outreach and assistance to Black agrarians and rural enclaves, particularly within the Southern United States during the Jim Crow era. These stalwarts were tasked with disseminating agricultural knowledge, propagating best practices in farming methodologies, and offering substantive support in domains such as crop management, livestock husbandry, and domestic economics.

Despite the formidable hurdles occasioned by racial segregation and discriminatory practices, Black extension agents emerged as linchpins in engendering tangible enhancements in agricultural practices, productivity, and overall well-being amongst Black agrarian cohorts. Their endeavors were instrumental in fostering economic empowerment and socio-economic uplift within marginalized rural communities, despite the structural impediments encountered.

Of particular salience is the chapter’s prelude, which deliberates upon the formative experiences of Thomas Campbell, a distinguished Black extension agent selected to partake in a comprehensive survey of rural education and agricultural paradigms in West Africa during 1944. This survey constituted a constituent component of a broader initiative aimed at promoting rural reconstruction and developmental interventions in war-ravaged nations. The chapter underscores the synergistic relationship between Campbell’s experiences abroad and his subsequent endeavors within the U.S. South, underscoring the significance of cross-cultural exchange and knowledge transfer in catalyzing transformative social change.

Furthermore, the chapter situates these initiatives within the broader ambit of liberal developmental paradigms, elucidating the role assumed by the U.S. government in advancing economic and social progress overseas. Notable mention is made of landmark endeavors such as the Marshall Plan, which sought to underwrite the reconstruction of Europe whilst championing the tenets of democracy and capitalism. The narrative accentuates the substantive involvement of Black extension agents and other luminaries from the African American milieu in these initiatives, proffering expertise and support to advance agricultural education and socio-economic uplift across post-war Europe.

Moreover, the chapter delves into the myriad challenges encountered by Black extension agents in navigating the intersecting mandates of the USDA’s extension service and the stark realities of Jim Crow segregation. It underscores the pivotal role played by grassroots initiatives in instigating transformative social change and empowerment within marginalized enclaves, underscoring the centrality of practical education and communal support mechanisms in surmounting the tribulations faced by rural households.

In her concluding remarks within “Disturbing Development in the Jim Crow South,” Mona Domosh offers a poignant reflection on the indelible imprint of systemic racism and discriminatory practices in shaping the lived experiences of Black farmers within the American South. Through a meticulous examination of the arduous struggles endured by Black agrarian communities during the Jim Crow epoch, the book illuminates the profound hurdles faced by marginalized populations in their endeavors to assert land rights and attain economic autonomy.

Central to Domosh’s analysis is a profound appreciation for the resilience and unwavering resolve exhibited by Black farmers in navigating systemic impediments to land ownership and economic advancement. Emphasizing the pivotal roles assumed by Black extension agents and grassroots initiatives, the book underscores their indispensable contributions in spearheading initiatives geared towards agricultural education, societal amelioration, and communal empowerment amidst the Jim Crow milieu. Despite the omnipresent specter of racial prejudice and discrimination, these concerted efforts laid the groundwork for enduring transformation and progress within Black rural enclaves.

In its concluding passages, “Disturbing Development in the Jim Crow South” fervently underscores the imperative of acknowledging and confronting the enduring legacies of the Jim Crow era in contemporary quests for justice and equity. By cultivating a nuanced understanding of the historical underpinnings of systemic inequity and oppression, the book avers, society can endeavor towards the construction of a more equitable and just societal framework. Indeed, it serves as an evocative testament to the fortitude and resilience exemplified by Black farmers in defiance of adversarial circumstances, whilst simultaneously issuing a clarion call for sustained commitment towards the pursuit of social and economic justice in the contemporary milieu.

Ultimately, the book beckons readers to engage in introspective contemplation, urging them to glean insights from the annals of history and derive inspiration from the valiant struggles and triumphs of those who have fervently championed the cause of justice and equality in the face of formidable odds. It stands as an enduring tribute to the potency of collective mobilization, grassroots activism, and the enduring spirit of resistance that continues to animate the collective endeavor towards the attainment of a more equitable and just societal ethos.

by Giovanni Santoro

The book titled “Disabilities of the Color Line – Redressing Antiblackness from Slavery to the Present” is structured thematically, wherein each chapter systematically delves into diverse facets of the disabilities associated with the color line. Authored by Dennis Tyler, an Associate Professor at Fordham University, the text explicitly emphasizes its utilization of a multifaceted approach, incorporating literature, historical analysis, and legal perspectives to furnish a comprehensive scrutiny of the subject matter.

Tyler commences his exposition by explicating the notion of the color line, a term originally coined by W.E.B. Du Bois to delineate the racial schism inherent in American society. The author contends that the color line transcends mere metaphorical abstraction, positing it as a palpable actuality that has indelibly molded the experiences of Black individuals across epochs.

Subsequently, Tyler introduces the concept of the “disabilities of the color line,” signifying the intersectionality of racism and ableism, thereby engendering distinct challenges for Black individuals with disabilities. The author underscores that these disabled Black individuals frequently find themselves marginalized within both the disability rights and Black liberation movements.

Moreover, he highlights the pervasive tendency to overlook or dismiss their experiences within broader societal discourse.  Indeed, part I of “Disabilities of the Color Line: Redressing Antiblackness from Slavery to the Present” systematically examines the historical experiences of Black individuals within the specified temporal framework. Two focal points within this section encompass David Walker’s Accessible Appeal and the remarkable escapades of Henry Box Brown and William and Ellen Craft.
David Walker’s Accessible Appeal, a pamphlet disseminated in 1829, ardently advocated for the immediate abolition of slavery and an end to racial discrimination. Notably, the pamphlet adopted a communicative style accessible to both literate and illiterate demographics, thereby serving as a potent instrument for disseminating abolitionist sentiments. The controversial nature of Walker’s treatise deemed it perilous by a substantial number of white Americans, prompting legislative measures to prohibit its circulation. Nevertheless, Walker’s Accessible Appeal played a pivotal role in the abolitionist movement, inspiring subsequent Black writers and activists to vociferously condemn the institution of slavery.

Additionally, Part I scrutinizes the remarkable escapes of Henry Box Brown and William and Ellen Craft. Henry Box Brown, a fugitive slave, effectuated his liberation by surreptitiously dispatching himself in a wooden crate from Virginia to Philadelphia. This perilous escapade demanded considerable courage but ultimately culminated in his emancipation. Similarly, the Craft couple employed a strategy of subterfuge to evade slavery, with William and Ellen assuming the roles of a white male planter and faithful servant, respectively. Notably, Ellen Craft, due to her light complexion, successfully portrayed herself as a disabled white male planter. Their successful escape concluded with their resettlement in England.

These narratives of escape and resistance underscore the resourcefulness and courage exhibited by Black individuals during the era of slavery. Moreover, they illuminate the stark realities of the institution of slavery and the extraordinary measures individuals were willing to undertake to secure their freedom. The narratives of Henry Box Brown and William and Ellen Craft also underscore the intersectionality of disability and race, with Ellen Craft’s ability to convincingly simulate a disabled white male planter being instrumental to their successful escape.

Part II of the book delves into the “Age of Jim Crow,” a historical epoch characterized by legalized segregation and systemic discrimination against African Americans in the United States. This segment is subdivided into three chapters: “The Curious Case of Jim Crow,” “Losing Limbs in the Republic: Charles Waddell Chesnutt,” and “The Disabilities of Caste: James Weldon Johnson.”

Within the confines of “The Curious Case of Jim Crow,” the author, Dennis Tyler, systematically examines the origins and progression of Jim Crow laws. This legislative framework, prevalent from the late 19th century to the mid-1960s, mandated racial segregation and sanctioned discriminatory practices against African Americans at the state and local levels. The author posits that the implementation of Jim Crow laws transcended mere racial separation, asserting that their underlying purpose was the preservation of white supremacy and dominance. Furthermore, Tyler scrutinizes the various modes of African American resistance to these laws, encompassing legal challenges, civil disobedience, and other forms of activism.

The subsequent chapter, “Losing Limbs in the Republic: Charles Waddell Chesnutt,” analyzes the oeuvre of Charles Waddell Chesnutt, an African American writer active during the Jim Crow era. Chesnutt’s literary endeavors frequently engaged with themes such as racial identity, passing, and the intricacies of African American existence within a segregated society. The author contends that Chesnutt’s literary contributions were precursors in their exploration of the nuanced dimensions of African American identity and experience.

In the final chapter, “The Disabilities of Caste: James Weldon Johnson,” Tyler conducts an in-depth analysis of the life and literary contributions of James Weldon Johnson. As an African American writer, activist, and diplomat during the Jim Crow era, Johnson played a pivotal role in the Harlem Renaissance and is renowned for his composition “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” commonly acknowledged as the “Black National Anthem.” The auhtor posits that Johnson’s body of work played a decisive role in challenging the prevailing notion of African Americans as second-class citizens, advocating for a vision of racial equality and justice.

Following, in Part III, titled the “Age of Color Blindness,” the author undertakes an examination of the convergence of ableism and racism, with a specific focus on the concept of color-blindness and its repercussions for disabled Black individuals.

Tyler claims that color-blindness, construed as the notion that race should not influence decision-making, constitutes a manifestation of ableism, as it obliterates the experiences of disabled individuals. He emphasizes that Black individuals with disabilities encounter distinctive challenges, including a heightened likelihood of incarceration and a diminished probability of receiving accommodations within the spheres of employment or the educational system.

Moreover, the author delves into the historical trajectory of color-blindness, tracing its origins to the 1896 Plessy v. Ferguson Supreme Court case. He contends that Justice Harlan’s dissenting opinion, advocating for a color-blind legal approach, paradoxically embodies a form of ableism by neglecting the interplay between race and disability.

The exploration in Part III extends to the instrumentalization of color-blindness in perpetuating racism, particularly within the framework of affirmative action. Tyler asserts that proponents of color-blindness strategically employ this concept to circumvent the acknowledgement of systemic racism and discrimination. By advocating for a color-blind stance, proponents often seek to minimize or dismiss the persistent impacts of historical and contemporary racial injustices. This stance effectively negates the imperative for targeted interventions aimed at rectifying disparities faced by marginalized communities, notably Black individuals.

The author’s analytical discourse prompts readers to engage in a critical assessment of how the rhetoric of color-blindness may function as an impediment to the implementation of substantive measures addressing racial inequality and discrimination.

Finally, the epilogue titled “The Problem of the Color Line in the Age of COVID-19,” offers a poignant reflection on the enduring impact of systemic racism and ableism, particularly in the context of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Tyler draws attention to the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on Black individuals, emphasizing the intersecting vulnerabilities faced by disabled Black people within the healthcare system.

The author highlights the case of Susan Moore, a Black doctor-turned-patient, whose experience at a hospital in Indiana exemplifies the discriminatory treatment often faced by Black patients. Moore’s ordeal serves as a stark illustration of the pervasive medical biases and systemic barriers that contribute to unequal healthcare outcomes for Black individuals, especially those with disabilities. Through this narrative, Tyler underscores the urgent need to address the deep-rooted issues of racial inequality and ableist practices within healthcare institutions.

Furthermore, the epilogue situates the contemporary challenges within the broader historical context of the color line, emphasizing the enduring relevance of addressing systemic racism and ableism. Tyler’s analysis prompts readers to critically examine the ways in which the pandemic has exacerbated existing disparities and brought to the forefront the urgent need for comprehensive redress of antiblackness and ableism.

In conclusion, Dennis Tyler aptly navigates through pivotal periods such as the Age of Slavery, the Age of Jim Crow, and the Age of Color Blindness, shedding light on the intersectionality of race and disability. This scholarly endeavor meticulously dissects the nuanced experiences of Black individuals, emphasizing the deleterious effects of systemic racism and ableism. 

Tyler’s incisive scrutiny of seminal figures, historical events, and societal constructs contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the complexities inherent in the entwined narratives of race and disability in the United States.

Furthermore, the book’s incursion into the concept of color-blindness serves as a compelling call for critical introspection on prevailing socio-legal paradigms and their impact on marginalized communities. 

In challenging the prevailing discourse, the author prompts readers to reevaluate established narratives, fostering a scholarly dialogue on the imperatives of dismantling systemic inequities and fostering genuine inclusivity. Ultimately, “Disabilities of the Color Line” emerges as a scholarly testament to the enduring significance of interrogating the interplay between race and disability in the pursuit of a more equitable and just society.

By Giovanni Santoro

“Slavery, Fatherhood, and Paternal Duty in African American Communities over the Long Nineteenth Century” by Libra R. Hilde (Professor of History at San Jose State University) stands as a meticulously researched and comprehensive scholarly examination delving into the intricate dynamics surrounding fatherhood and paternal responsibilities within African American communities throughout the expansive 19th century. This seminal work intricately explores the profound implications of slavery on the institution of African American fatherhood, delving into the myriad ways in which enslaved fathers navigated the oppressive constraints imposed by slavery to fulfill their paternal duties. Moreover, it meticulously scrutinizes the challenges and opportunities that emerged for African American fathers in the wake of freedom.

The book is organized into eight chapters dedicated to probing distinct facets of African American fatherhood during this tumultuous historical epoch. In the inaugural chapter, titled “The God Part of Him,” Hilde conducts a thorough analysis of the impact of slavery on enslaved fathers, positing that notwithstanding the formidable challenges posed by the institution, many enslaved fathers adeptly maintained robust relationships with their offspring, discharging their paternal responsibilities with resilience and determination.

Chapter two, titled “I Liked My Papa the Best,” delves into the experiences of enslaved children, meticulously exploring the intricate dynamics of their relationships with their fathers. Hilde convincingly argues that despite the adversities of slavery, many enslaved children managed to forge enduring bonds with their fathers, which served as crucial sources of emotional sustenance and stability.

The third chapter, “Blasphemous Doctrine for a Slave to Teach,” offers a nuanced examination of the strategies employed by enslaved fathers to impart knowledge and skills to their progeny within the constricting framework of slavery. Hilde contends that many enslaved fathers perceived education as a pivotal tool for preparing their children for a brighter future and worked diligently to secure whatever educational opportunities were available to them.

Chapter four, titled “This Great Object of My Life,” shifts the focus towards the experiences of those enslaved fathers who attained freedom through purchase or escape. Hilde argues that these individuals confronted distinctive challenges in transitioning to freedom and often grappled with the difficulties of maintaining relationships with children who remained in bondage.

The fifth chapter, “Tuckey Buzzard Lay Me,” navigates the complex intersection of slavery, sexuality, and white fathers in the lives of enslaved children. Hilde presents a compelling argument that many enslaved children were fathered by white men, either through coerced relationships or consensual unions, and that these dynamics were fraught with complexity and tension.

In the ensuing chapter, “Mortifications Peculiarly Their Own,” Hilde examines the plight of enslaved women who bore children fathered by white men. This chapter underscores the unique challenges these women face in navigating the intricate and often traumatic dynamics of such relationships, relying on their resilience and resourcefulness to safeguard and nurture their offspring.

Chapter seven, “My Children Is My Own,” shifts the narrative to the experiences of African American fathers in the aftermath of emancipation. Hilde contends that while freedom ushered in new opportunities, it also brought forth fresh challenges as these fathers endeavored to navigate America’s evolving social and economic landscape post-emancipation.

The final chapter, “Good to Us Chillun,” culminates the scholarly journey by scrutinizing how African American fathers sought to provide for their families and fulfill their paternal duties amidst persistent discrimination and inequality. Hilde convincingly argues that despite the formidable challenges posed by racism and poverty, numerous African American fathers managed to maintain resilient relationships with their children, bestowing upon them the love, support, and guidance requisite for their flourishing.

In conclusion, “Slavery, Fatherhood, and Paternal Duty in African American Communities over the Long Nineteenth Century” by Libra R. Hilde stands as a seminal work that offers a profound and multifaceted exploration of the intricate interplay between slavery, fatherhood, and paternal duty within African American communities. Through meticulous research and a nuanced understanding of historical and cultural contexts, Hilde illuminates the experiences of enslaved and free African American fathers, shedding light on their resilience, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment to their children in the face of formidable challenges.

The book’s comprehensive analysis, spanning eight meticulously crafted chapters, delves into the complexities of enslaved fatherhood, the enduring bonds between enslaved children and their fathers, the pursuit of education and knowledge transmission, the unique struggles of fathers who gained freedom, the intricate dynamics of interracial relationships and their impact on enslaved children, and the post-emancipation challenges and triumphs of African American fathers. Hilde’s insightful narrative not only captures the historical realities of African American fatherhood but also serves as a poignant testament to the enduring strength and love that transcended the oppressive forces of slavery and systemic discrimination.

Furthermore, Hilde’s adept navigation of primary sources, historical evidence, and scholarly discourse enriches the book with a compelling blend of academic rigor and empathetic storytelling. By centering the voices and experiences of enslaved and free African American fathers, Hilde offers a poignant and humanizing portrayal that transcends the confines of historical analysis, resonating with readers on a deeply emotional and empathetic level.

“Slavery, Fatherhood, and Paternal Duty in African American Communities over the Long Nineteenth Century” not only contributes significantly to the scholarship of African American history and culture but also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of African American fatherhood. Hilde’s work stands as a vital and indispensable resource for scholars, students, and readers seeking a profound understanding of the complexities and resilience of African American familial relationships in the face of adversity. This book is a testament to African American fathers’ enduring strength, love, and resilience, and it stands as a poignant and indispensable contribution to the scholarly discourse on African American history and culture.

by Giovanni Santoro

The book titled “The Boundaries of Freedom: Slavery, Abolition, and the Making of Modern Brazil,” edited by Brodwyn Fischer and Keila Grinberg, is organized into four sections, each comprising several chapters that meticulously examine diverse facets of slavery, abolition, and their consequential contributions to the formation of contemporary Brazil.

The chapters encompass a broad spectrum of themes, ranging from the lived experiences of enslaved and emancipated individuals, the role of social agency, the emergence of collective identities, to the cultural and political ramifications of both slavery and abolition.

Furthermore, the text delves into the intricate intersections involving race, subjectivity, and transnational political initiatives, thereby elucidating the historical construction of the Black subject within the Western context.

The authors additionally engage in an exploration of the impact of memory and historical narrative on the comprehension of slavery, while also scrutinizing their influence on the construction of the Black subject.

The book’s structure allows for a comprehensive examination of the complex historical processes that shaped Brazil’s trajectory from slavery to modernity considering:
1. The Influence of Slavery and Abolition on the Formation of Modern Brazil: This work delves into the intricate historical processes that have shaped Brazil’s evolution from a society rooted in slavery to one characterized by modernity. It meticulously investigates the experiences of both enslaved and emancipated individuals, the role played by social agency, and the development of collective identities. The authors posit that the dissolution of slavery coincided with a racialization of social status, grounded in the tenets of scientific racism, resulting in the reconfiguration of socioracial hierarchies even as the legitimacy of slavery waned. The text illuminates the nuanced network of relationships and endeavors forged by individuals of color, exemplified by Teodoro Sampaio, who, despite his upbringing in a free environment, managed to attain the status of an engineer and emancipate his three enslaved brothers from the same plantation.

2. The Significance of Subjectivity and the Construction of the Black Subject: This publication scrutinizes the intricate aspects of subjectivity and the contextual processes that shape it. The authors contend that while the social historiography of Brazilian slavery has predominantly focused on the concept of social agency within the captive and liberated populations, it has tended to shy away from a more profound engagement with theoretical frameworks derived from philosophy or communication studies. The text delves into the theoretical prospects for comprehending subaltern social agency and the formation of self-narrators, emphasizing the need for meticulous analysis of their accounts. The authors argue that the historical narrative of slavery has delineated the Black subject in the Western context through the incorporation of racist frameworks inherent in the prevailing memory of slavery.

3. The Intersections of Race, Subjectivity, and Transnational Political Action: This scholarly work elucidates the cultural and political ramifications stemming from the institution of slavery and its subsequent abolition. It systematically examines the influence of memory and historical narrative on the comprehension of slavery and its profound implications for the construction of the Black subject. The authors posit that historical experience remains indissolubly intertwined with historical narrative, particularly in the context of slavery’s historical trajectory. The text probes the role of shared experiences and the collective formulation of hierarchical categories in shaping individual social actions, thereby conditioning the impact of individual endeavors on broader historical processes. Additionally, it investigates the potential for transnational political action among subaltern subjects.

4. The Impact of Memory and Historical Narrative on the Understanding of Slavery: This publication rigorously explores the repercussions of memory and historical narrative on the comprehension of slavery, emphasizing their influence on the construction of the Black subject. The authors contend that historical experience is inextricably linked with historical narrative, particularly within the framework of slavery’s historical discourse. The text scrutinizes the role of shared experiences and the collective construction of hierarchical categories in shaping individual social actions, thereby conditioning the broader impact of individual endeavors on historical processes. Furthermore, it delves into the potential for transnational political action among subaltern subjects. The focus on memory and historical narrative within the book contributes novel insights into the political and cultural implications of actions undertaken by both enslaved and emancipated individuals and their descendants. Additionally, it highlights the broader significance of collective processes of identification and classification that have molded them into historical agents.

In conclusion, “The Boundaries of Freedom: Slavery, Abolition, and the Making of Modern Brazil,” expertly edited by Brodwyn Fischer and Keila Grinberg, emerges as an exemplary scholarly work that systematically scrutinizes the nuanced dimensions of Brazil’s historical progression from the era of slavery to modernity. Through a meticulous examination of the experiences of both enslaved and emancipated individuals, an exploration of the role of social agency, and a comprehensive analysis of the intricate intersections involving race, subjectivity, and transnational political action, the contributors present a sophisticated narrative that delves into the intricate fabric of relationships, endeavors, and historical processes that have indelibly shaped the nation.

The book’s focal points on memory, historical narrative, and the construction of the Black subject yield valuable insights into the cultural and political ramifications of slavery and abolition. This emphasis offers a fresh perspective, casting illumination on the broader significance of collective processes that have delineated historical agents in Brazil. Navigating these complex themes with scholarly rigor and theoretical profundity, the book makes a substantial contribution to the academic discourse surrounding the historical construction of Brazil and the enduring legacies stemming from its tumultuous past.

by Giovanni Santoro