Of the books authored by Martin R. Delany (1812-1885); The Origin of Races and Color is perhaps the most obscure. Out-of-print until now; it has been available to the public only through select libraries. At the time of its publication in 1879; this valuable resource presented a bold challenge to racist views of African inferiority. Delany wrote in opposition to a developing oppressive intellectualism that used Darwin's thesis; "the survival of the fittest;" to support its demented theories of Black inferiority.Skillfully blending biblical history; archaeology and anthropology; Delany offered evidence to the "serious inquirer" suggesting the first humans were African; and that these Africans were ". . . builders of the pyramids; sculptors of the sphinxes; and original god-kings. . . ." With such radical assertions; Delany advanced a model of ancient history that contradicted the very foundation of intellectual racism. He believed knowledge of one's past was essential; and that it could provide Black people with the regenerative force necessary to inspire their self-improvement. Were he alive today; Delany would certainly feel at home with the present generation of Africancentrists; especially since he developed and articulated so many of their arguments more than a century ago.
#306078 in Books 1996-10Original language:RussianPDF # 1 8.52 x 1.02 x 5.51l; 1.06 #File Name: 0929701496352 pages
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Lost world of the Russian far eastBy FerroAn authentic and very enjoyable account of the adventure of two friends; in a beautifully and unexplored wild region.Arseniev is a government geographer; the leader of a survey expedition; who takes time to detail his observations of the landscapes; animals and birds of the Taiga. Dersu is a man from the past; one of the dwindling native Nanai people; with a unique perception of life. He has the ability and preference to live in the wilds; without any modern convenience. He represents lost knowledge and a gentler way of living. He exists in harmony with the natural world; with a dignity and respect for all living things - something often lacking in modern people.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. A lovely bookBy Diane PAn enthralling tale! It is really close to a page-turner; which I didn't expect with a chronicle of an early Russian explorer/naturalist/surveyor. Dersu himself is a charming fellow and wiser than anyone around him; made even more interesting by the respect and affection shown by the Russians he is guiding. Aseniev's descriptions of the flora and fauna he encounters are delightful and he tells of the hardships of his journeys in a sometimes matter-of-fact way; even when they are life-threatening. He loses his composure rarely; as is proper for a good expedition leader. There are also some sad passages about the terribly abused native peoples that Arseniev passes in his wilderness treks; shocking until you remember that all native peoples around the world have had the same cruel existence at the hands of invading "civilized" groups. In this particular region; they are usually Chinese trappers and merchants; as the border is very close; rather than Russians. I started to watch the film based on this book (the full 1961 movie; "Dersu Uzala"; is on Youtube); but the English captions are difficult to follow while still watching the film. I'll get back to it; though; as it's highly recommended. The Kurosawa version of 1975 can be seen here: http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xzmn4n_dersu-uzala-1975-pt-1_creation . The photo on the cover was taken on location during the filming of the Kurosawa version. I don't think I would get nearly as much out of the film if I hadn't read the book; first; because this is a time and place that's very obscure to Westerners - and even some Russians.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. What a beautiful man!By Lawrence L. WillettThis a beautifully story about the never ending battle between good and evil. The age-old contest between the sophisticated man; the city dweller and the free and unspoiled man of the wilds. It has been told many times. Unfortunately; since this is a Russian Novel evil wins and the good man; Dersu; dies. Arseniev obviously recognized Dersu as the noblest of all men and desired to protect him from the dangers of a modern society in vain. One often hears about an attempt "to find just one good man". Arseniev did find that man but civilization destroyed him as it seems to have done since the beginning of time. This tale is truly a masterpiece. This reader was enthralled by the seemingly effortless but beautifully descriptive imagery of Arseniev's accounts of his; and Dersu's; journeys through the wilderness. It broke my heart to learn of Dersu's death. however; Dersu was spared the cruelty of living through old age infirmities in the same manner as do the wild animals in the taiga. Life must move on. No wonder Kurosawa chose to make a movie about this absolutely beautiful story. Now I know that I must see the Kurosawa movie. The photograph on the front cover is perfect for this story. I recommend this book for all readers. It is priceless!
