Gullah Culture in America

The Gullah Culture in America chronicles the history and culture of the Gullah people, African Americans who live in the Lowcountry region of the American South, from their arrival to the sea islands of South Carolina and Georgia to the establishment of the Penn School after the Civil War.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 295 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2023
Publisher: John F Blair Publisher

The Gullah people, African Americans who reside in the Lowcountry region of the American South, have a rich cultural history that is documented in the book "Gullah Culture in America." This book, written for a general audience, chronicles the arrival of enslaved West Africans to the sea islands of South Carolina and Georgia, the blending of their African cultures, which resulted in the development of a unique creole language, cuisine, traditions, and arts, and the establishment of the Penn School, which was dedicated to educating and supporting the Gullah freedmen after the Civil War.

In his 2008 book, the original author, Wilbur Cross, describes the ongoing Gullah story. This story encompasses the preservation of the culture within rural settings, the continued influence of the Penn School (now known as the Penn Center) in preserving and documenting the Gullah Geechee cultures, and the challenges faced by the Gullah people today, as their way of life is endangered by overdevelopment in an increasingly popular tourist destination.

For the second edition of this popular book, Eric Crawford, a Gullah Geechee scholar, has updated the text with new information and a fresh perspective on the Gullah Geechee culture. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the history, culture, and experiences of the Gullah people, highlighting their contributions to American society and their resilience in the face of adversity.

The Gullah people have a unique cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in their African traditions and experiences. They have developed a distinct language, cuisine, and art form that reflect their history and struggles. The book explores the origins of the Gullah people, their enslavement, and their journey to freedom. It also delves into the unique aspects of their culture, such as their music, dance, and storytelling traditions.

One of the key themes of the book is the preservation of the Gullah Geechee culture. The author emphasizes the importance of preserving the unique traditions and languages of the Gullah people, as well as their traditional way of life. The book also highlights the efforts of organizations and individuals who are working to preserve and promote the Gullah Geechee culture.

The book also explores the impact of the Gullah Geechee culture on American society. The Gullah people have played a significant role in shaping American culture, particularly in the areas of music, literature, and cuisine. The book discusses the influence of the Gullah people on popular music genres such as jazz, blues, and soul, as well as their contributions to literature and the arts.

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, the book also provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by the Gullah people today. The population of the Gullah people has been declining in recent years, due to a variety of factors, including urbanization, economic development, and the loss of traditional land-use practices. The book explores the impact of these factors on the Gullah people and their communities.

Overall, "Gullah Culture in America" is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the history, culture, and experiences of the Gullah people. The book provides a comprehensive and accessible overview of the Gullah Geechee culture, and its significance to American society. It is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Gullah people, and their ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity.

Dimension: 228 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781949467963
Edition number: 2 ed