Description
Book SynopsisMaking available an invaluable perspective on African American life, this volume represents a publication of immense historical and literary importance.
Trade Review"An exciting act of scholarly recovery.
The Negro in Illinois papers, at long last available, are an invaluable guide to the role of American writers in crafting one of the first composite narratives of African American life. This dynamic volume shows us history from below in the making and being made."--Bill V. Mullen, coeditor of
Afro Asia: Revolutionary Political and Cultural Connections between African Americans and Asian Americans "This landmark study provides a unique window onto the work of the Illinois unit of the Federal Writers' Project. A commendable work of historical recovery."--Richard Courage, coauthor of
The Muse in Bronzeville: African American Creative Expression in Chicago, 1932-1950 "A significant accomplishment. Not only does it bring to light a range of wonderful material on a variety of topics (the Underground Railroad, work, churches, professions, social life, and social uplift, literature, music, the theater, etc.), but the wonderful introduction and Dolinar's fine editing skills also make the book a significant contribution to scholarship."--
The Annals of Iowa"In bringing out the until now largely unknown
The Negro in Illinois: The WPA Papers, African American literary and cultural studies scholar Brian Dolinar has done an invaluable service for those interested in Great Depression-period black culture. This work should be on the shelf of all who are interested in the study of African American literature, politics, economics, and culture. Dolinar's
The Negro in Illinois is unquestionably indispensable."--
Journal of Illinois History"Chicago had a vibrant black community, perhaps equal to that of Harlem, which makes the Illinois volume both important and interesting. Highly recommended."--
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