Consequential Museum Spaces: Representing African American History and Culture

Bettina Messias Carbonell's book explores how African American history and culture are represented in museums, providing a corrective history that educates and enlightens and seeks to effect change. Themes include settlement narratives, political movements, slavery, Africa's status, and activism and human rights.

Format: Hardback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

In her groundbreaking work, "In Consequential Museum Spaces," Bettina Messias Carbonell delves into the intricate ways in which African American history and culture have been portrayed in culturally specific and mainstream museums. Carbonell makes a compelling argument that African American museums serve as a corrective history, offering a balanced and pragmatic perspective that educates and enlightens while also striving to bring about positive change.

The book explores a wide range of themes, including settlement narratives, significant movements and individuals in political, social, and military history, the complex treatment of slavery, including the African, transatlantic, and American slave trade, and the enduring legacy of slavery as an institution in the United States. It also examines the status of Africa as a source of origins and traditions, a destination for reconnecting with the past, and a platform for activism and human rights.

Carbonell contextualizes her museum-based work within the broader framework of relevant historical texts and contemporary theories related to memory, history, corrective history, intergenerational trauma, human rights, and historical consciousness. By integrating these diverse perspectives, she provides a comprehensive analysis of how African American history and culture have been interpreted and presented in museums.

Through her meticulous research and thoughtful analysis, Carbonell challenges traditional narratives and sheds light on the often overlooked or marginalized aspects of African American history. She highlights the contributions and struggles of African Americans throughout history, challenging stereotypes and promoting a more inclusive and accurate understanding of our collective past.

"In Consequential Museum Spaces" is a seminal work that has significantly contributed to the field of museum studies and heritage preservation. It offers valuable insights into the complex relationship between museums, history, and society, and serves as a call to action for museums to embrace their responsibility to represent diverse narratives and promote social justice.

In conclusion, Bettina Messias Carbonell's "In Consequential Museum Spaces" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the representation of African American history and culture in museums. Through her insightful analysis and compelling arguments, Carbonell has demonstrated the power of museums to shape public perception and promote positive change. This book is a valuable contribution to the field of museum studies and a testament to the importance of preserving and celebrating our shared heritage.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666919547