Wilmington's Lie: The Murderous Coup of 1898 and the Rise of White Supremacy
by David Zucchino
Approximately 336 pages
This book provides a thorough examination of a pivotal yet often overlooked event in American history.
Difficulty
Moderate
Pace
Measured
Mood
historical, critical
Book club
High
Is this book for you?
Read this if you enjoy
- historical analysis
- you are interested in social justice issues
- you want to understand the roots of systemic racism
Consider another book if
- you prefer fictional narratives
- you seek light reading
What it is about
"Wilmington's Lie" explores the events surrounding the 1898 coup in Wilmington, North Carolina. The book details how white supremacists overthrew the elected government, which included Black officials. It examines the social and political climate that allowed such violence to occur.
Zucchino highlights the role of local newspapers in inciting racial tensions. The narrative includes personal accounts from survivors and descendants of the victims. The author discusses the aftermath of the coup and its impact on racial dynamics in the South.
The book also addresses the historical erasure of this event from public memory. Zucchino connects the coup to the broader rise of Jim Crow laws. He emphasizes the long-term consequences for Black communities in Wilmington.
Ultimately, the work serves as a critical examination of racism and power in American history.
Award recognition
2021 winner
Pulitzer Prize for General Nonfiction
United States
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