Description
Book SynopsisIn his day, Jack Johnson - born in Texas, the son of former slaves - was the most famous black man on the planet. As the first African American World Heavy weight Champion (1908-1915), he publicly challenged white supremacy at home and abroad, enjoying the same audacious lifestyle of conspicuous consumption, and masculine bravado.
Trade Review"This book is a must-have addition to any boxing fan's library." -- Glenn Wilson Boxing News "Runstedtler brings new perspectives to bear in Jack Johnson, Rebel Sojourner... it's well worth the read." -- Thomas Hauser The Ring "Runstedtler presents an unexpected yet wholly authentic take on the great African American boxer, Jack Johnson." -- Alan Moores Booklist "A fascinating must-read for students of African American or American studies covering the early 1900s." -- Jim Burns Library Journal "My nominee for book of the year by a rising young scholar... For anyone interested in colonialism, imperialism, race, and the global impact of sport, this book is a must read." -- Mark Naison With A Brooklyn Accent "A thoroughly researched, scholarly study, meant to be read slowly and considered deeply... Highly recommended for all readers." -- R. W. Roberts, Purdue University Choice
Table of ContentsContents List of Illustrations Acknowledgments Preface: Sparring Nations, Global Problem Introduction: Jack Johnson, Rebel Sojourner 1. Embodying Empire: Jack Johnson and the White Pacific 2. White Censors, Dark Screens: The Jeffries-Johnson Fight Film Controversy 3. Jack Johnson versus John Bull: The Rise of the British Boxing Colour Bar 4. The Black Atlantic from Below: African American Boxers and the Search for Exile 5. Trading Race: Black Bodies and French Regeneration 6. Viva Johnson! Fighting over Race in the Americas 7. The Empire Strikes Back: The "French Jack Johnson" and the Rising Tide of Color Epilogue: Visible Men, Harmless Icons Notes Bibliography Index