Subject
African Americans -- Politics and government Books
Best books
Gilbert Thomas Stephenson
Race Distinctions in American Law
"Race Distinctions in American Law" by Gilbert Thomas Stephenson is a scholarly examination written in the early 20th century. The work investigates the legal frameworks and distinctions that exist between races, especially in the context of how laws have been shaped by and continue to impact the African American community since emancipation. It seeks to understand the complexities of race relations through the lens of law, highlighting the consequences of statutory distinctions on citizens of different races. The opening of the text introduces the pervasive issue of race relations in America, pointing out the complex legal landscape following the Civil War and the abolition of slavery. Stephenson provides insight into the objective of his study, which is to explore how legal distinctions based on race have been formulated and maintained since 1865, thus shaping societal dynamics. He emphasizes the significance of examining laws to understand their implications for various racial groups, not just African Americans, underscoring that race distinctions, rather than mere discrimination, merit a thorough analysis in order to grasp the broader implications for civil rights and the concept of citizenship in the U.S.
Robert Smalls
Speeches at the Constitutional Convention With the Right of Suffrage Passed by the Constitutional Convention
"Speeches at the Constitutional Convention" by Robert Smalls is a historical account compiled in the late 19th century, circa 1896. The book presents a collection of speeches made during the South Carolina Constitutional Convention, particularly focusing on the pivotal issues of voting rights and racial equality. Smalls, a noted African American leader, voiced significant concerns regarding the potential disenfranchisement of Black citizens, advocating for their rights within the context of a politically charged atmosphere. The book showcases Smalls's impassioned speeches that candidly address the injustices faced by the African American community in South Carolina. He argues against the disfranchisement initiatives that sought to limit Black voting rights under the guise of educational and property requirements. Throughout his addresses, Smalls employs historical references, logic, and emotional appeals to contest discriminatory laws and advocate for fair voting practices, imploring the convention members to create a constitution that represents justice and equality for all. His speeches highlight not only the legal struggles of the time but also the broader social dynamics of race relations in America following the Civil War.
Recently surfaced classics