
Slavery by Another Name: The Re-Enslavement of Black Americans from the Civil War to World War II
by Douglas A. Blackmon
Approximately 474 pages
This book provides a thorough examination of the re-enslavement practices that persisted in America long after the Civil War.
Difficulty
Challenging
Pace
Medium
Mood
serious, informative
Book club
High
Is this book for you?
Read this if you enjoy
- deep historical analysis
- you are interested in social justice
- you want to understand American history more fully
Consider another book if
- you prefer lighter topics
- you dislike dense historical texts
What it is about
"Slavery by Another Name" explores the systemic re-enslavement of Black Americans in the South following the Civil War. Douglas A. Blackmon details how legal loopholes and economic exploitation perpetuated forced labor.
The book highlights the convict leasing system, where imprisoned Black men were sold to private companies. It examines the role of Southern states in maintaining racial hierarchy through oppressive laws. Blackmon discusses the impact of these practices on Black communities and families.
He also addresses the complicity of Northern industries in benefiting from this labor. The narrative spans from the post-Civil War era to World War II. It reveals the enduring legacy of racial injustice in American society.
The author utilizes personal stories and historical records to illustrate his points. Ultimately, the work argues that the fight against slavery did not end with emancipation.
Award recognition
2009 winner
Pulitzer Prize for General Nonfiction
United States
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