Poseidon's Curse interprets the American Revolution from the vantage point of the Atlantic Ocean. Christopher P. Magra traces how British naval impressment played a leading role in the rise of Great Britain's seaborne empire; yet ultimately contributed significantly to its decline. Long reliant on appropriating free laborers to man the warships that defended British colonies and maritime commerce; the British severely jeopardized mariners' earning potential and occupational mobility; which led to deep resentment toward the British Empire. Magra explains how anger about impressment translated into revolutionary ideology; with impressment eventually occupying a major role in the Declaration of Independence as one of the foremost grievances Americans had with the British government.
#241365 in Books Ingramcontent 2016-09-13Original language:English 9.00 x .50 x 6.00l; .50 #File Name: 0997910410160 pagesLong Road to Hard Truth The 100 Year Mission to Create the National Museum of African American History and Culture
Review
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Beautiful; personal story of the fruition of a long-deferred dream.By Terrence FranklinJust finished reading this thin beautiful volume about the long struggle to create this extraordinary new museum. Truly personal; it explains how the author was led to a mission to build on the work of his spiritual ancestors; and move the arc of history forward. Forsaking gainful enjoyment; and with a pregnant; supportive saint of a wife; he brought all his skills as a Harvard-trained trial lawyer to overcome endless obstacles to help bring the museum to fruition. The testament to his work now sits on the National Mall; across from the memorial to our First President; a profiteer of slavery. It calls this country to account and reckon with its past; even as it embraces hope for our future.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. The Amazing Story of How the NMAAHC Was BuiltBy Angela J. DavisRobert Wilkins does a great job of recounting the surprising story of how long it took to establish the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Well-researched and well-written; this book will leave the reader with a great appreciation of the struggle to build this beautiful museum that now stands as the crowning glory of the National Mall. Most interesting is the critical role that Wilkins himself played in making the dream of this museum a reality. This is a must-read for anyone interested in the National Museum of African American History and Culture.5 of 6 people found the following review helpful. 100 YearsBy AMNBReceived a digital ARC via Netgalley. LONG ROAD TO HARD TRUTH is a thorough examination of the trials and triumphs in the mission to create the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Robert L. Wilkins does a magnificent job researching the lengthy history. It's also part memoir and you feel with every word written the depths of passion Mr. Wilkins felt in making this museum a reality. This is a powerful and proud read and something that should be considered in high schools and colleges across America.
