Every American city had a small; self-aware; and active black elite; who felt it was their duty to set the standard for the less fortunate members of their race and to lead their communities by example. Rank within this black upper class rested on such issues as the status of one’s forebears as either house servants or field hands; the darkness of one’s skin; and the level of one’s manners and education.Professor Gatewood’s study examines this class of African Americans by looking at the genealogies and occupations of specific families and individuals throughout the United States and their roles in their various communities. The resulting narrative is a full and illuminating account of a most influential segment of the African-American population. It explores fully the distinctive background; prestige; attitudes; behavior; power; and culture of this class. The Black Community Studies series from the University of Arkansas Press; edited by Professor Gatewood; continues to examine many of the same themes first explored in this important study.
#404814 in Books Johnson Books 1997-10Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 .85 x 5.54 x 8.07l; .90 #File Name: 1555662099272 pages
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A great book!By CustomerI am currently reading "Surrender on demand"; and am being deeply impressed by the direct and clear approach as well as the humane spirit of the author. A clear and sober voice!Where are the good people; the real (yet humble) heroes of humanity that once upon a time did the simple; self evident deed against all odds; thereby giving us an example for life.The author; Varian Fry; is long dead. His deeds will remain alive with us for a long time; well after the Trumps and Putins will turn into flying dust.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. THIS IS A MUST READ.By Receptive ReaderAN UNSUNG AMERICAN HERO TELLS HIS STORY OF RESCUING ARTISTS INTELLECTUALS; AND ANYONE WHO COULD GET THE NECESSARY PAPERS; FROM THE NAZIS.The last outpost for escape; Marseilles; 1940; Fry went with a list of 200 artists; ended up rescuing 2;000! This book; and all related; should be republished to inspire others. Several on Fry's staff were American heroes themselves; MaryJayne Gold; Charlie Fawcett; Walter Meyerhof.It's a fascinating story.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. AN AMAZING AMERICANBy FLEURvery interesting book by this extremely courageous American who put his own life on the line to save countless Jews during WWII. A movie was made about him called Varian's War. I recommend both.
