Hattiesburg: An American City in Black and White

In "Hattiesburg," William Sturkey offers a profound exploration of the history of Jim Crow and the resilience of African Americans in the face of segregation. The book is a finalist for the Zócalo Public Square Book Prize and has received critical acclaim for its insightful analysis and powerful storytelling.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 456 pages
\n Publication date: 29 January 2021
\n Publisher: Harvard University Press
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Winner of the prestigious Zócalo Public Square Book Prize, Benjamin L. Hooks Award Finalist, "Hattiesburg" is a profound and captivating exploration of a pivotal period in American history. Kevin Boyle, the acclaimed author of "Arc of Justice," praises the book as "insightful, powerful, and moving," highlighting its ability to shed light on the terrors of Jim Crow while also showcasing the remarkable resilience and unity of Hattiesburg's black community.

In his meticulous and clear-eyed narrative, William Sturkey takes readers on a journey back to Mobile Street in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, the heart of the historic black downtown. Here, remnants of the shops and churches where men and women gathered amidst the violence and humiliation of segregation continue to stand, serving as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the African American community.

Through the lives of families on both sides of the racial divide, "Hattiesburg" delves into the intricate tapestry of their existence, revealing how the changing fortunes of the Jim Crow South shaped their daily lives, relationships, and aspirations. The book offers a poignant portrayal of the challenges and struggles faced by African Americans during this period, as well as their unwavering determination to overcome adversity and build a better future for themselves and future generations.

"Sturkey's magnificent portrait reminds us that Mississippi is no anachronism," writes Robin D. G. Kelley, the acclaimed author of "Thelonious Monk." "It is the dark heart of American modernity." The book's insights into the social, political, and economic dynamics of the Jim Crow South are invaluable, providing a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped the lives of African Americans during this tumultuous era.

"When they are at their best, historians craft powerful, compelling, often genre-changing pieces of history," writes Charles W. McKinney, Jr., in the Journal of African American History. "William Sturkey is one of those historians." "A brilliant, poignant work."

In conclusion, "Hattiesburg" is a must-read for anyone interested in American history, social justice, and the resilience of the human spirit. With its insightful narrative, meticulous research, and powerful storytelling, the book offers a fresh perspective on a pivotal period in American history and serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the African American community.

\n Weight: 460g\n
Dimension: 141 x 208 x 35 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780674248274\n \n