Description
Book SynopsisEven as American Patriots fought for independence from British rule during the Revolutionary War, oppressive conditions remained in place for the thousands of enslaved and free African Americans living in this country. But African Americans took up their own fight for freedom by joining the British and American armies; preaching, speaking out, and writing about the evils of slavery; and establishing settlements in Nova Scotia and Africa. The thirteen stories featured in this collection spotlight charismatic individuals who answered the cry for freedom, focusing on the choices they made and how they changed America both then and now. These individuals include: Boston King, Agrippa Hull, James Armistead Lafayette, Phillis Wheatley, Elizabeth "Mumbet" Freeman, Prince Hall, Mary Perth, Ona Judge, Sally Hemings, Paul Cuffe, John Kizell, Richard Allen, and Jarena Lee. Includes individual bibliographies and timelines, author note, and source notes.
Trade Review"Biographical sketches tell of 13 remarkable black men and women... (t)he well-told stories, illustrated with striking silhouettes by Christie, can be read independently of one another... Accessible, inspiring accounts of courageous men and women." --Kirkus Reviews "There is a dearth of resources available to students interested in the history and inner lives of free and enslaved African Americans in early U.S. history. This informational text uncovers a bit of that lost history...Through the use of personal testimonies, Woelfle presents an approachable but detailed narrative. Researchers and history fans alike will surely appreciate this work that brings attention to a missing part of U.S. history. Recommended for libraries and classrooms that serve middle school students."--School Library Journal "This book features 13 inspirational biographies of African Americans who overcame tremendous obstacles in their quest for liberation during the American Revolution... students will easily identify with the challenges faced by these notables, especially since many were in their teens or younger at the time of the war. Teachers will love the extensively researched text, and librarians will love the in-text quotes, poems, journal excerpts, letters, epitaphs, testimonies, and other primary source content. Skillfully written by multiple award-winning author Woelfle, and illustrated with pen and ink drawings by award-winning illustrator Christie, this book supports fifth grade Common Core social studies standards and is ideally suited for all middle grades studying early American history, civil rights, and government." --Library Media Connection, Highly Recommended "Author Woelfle and illustrator Christie share the stories of African American patriots of the American Revolution, an important and interesting part of history that is not often covered in texts. The personal stories will inspire and guide many who are forging their own path for equal rights today...a well researched book that will make history relatable for students." -- VOYA
