Reclaiming the Black Past: The Use and Misuse of African American History in the 21st Century

Public knowledge and understanding of black history have been shaped by institutions and individuals outside academic ivory towers, according to Pero Gaglo Dagbovie's book Reclaiming the Black Past: The Use and Misuse of African American History in the 21st Century. He explores how African American history is regarded, depicted, and juggled by diverse and contesting interpreters in the twenty-first century, highlighting the ubiquitous nature of black history in contemporary American thought and culture.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 240 pages
\n Publication date: 13 November 2018
\n Publisher: Verso Books
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In the twenty-first century, where information overload reigns supreme, it appears nearly impossible to fully comprehend or explain our knowledge of the past. However, two undeniable truths stand out. Firstly, whether we are aware of it or not, we all engage in historical thinking on a regular basis. Secondly, the perceptions we hold of history, particularly African American history, have not necessarily been solely shaped by professional historians.

In his thought-provoking and timely book, Pero Gaglo Dagbovie presents a compelling argument that public understanding and knowledge of black history, encompassing its historical icons, have been significantly influenced by institutions and individuals outside the realm of academic ivory towers. Through a rich tapestry of compelling examples, Dagbovie delves into how African American history is regarded, portrayed, and interpreted by a diverse range of interpreters in the twenty-first century. These interpreters include museum curators, film-makers, entertainers, politicians, journalists, and bloggers.

Reclaiming the Black Past: The Use and Misuse of African American History in the 21st Century serves as Dagbovie's significant contribution to expanding our understanding of African American history during the new millennium.

In each chapter, Dagbovie meticulously unpacks how black history has been represented and remembered, primarily during the era of Obama, often referred to as the era of post-racial American society. By highlighting the pervasive nature of African American history in contemporary American thought and culture, the book underscores the need to reexamine and reassess our historical narratives.

Through his insightful analysis, Dagbovie challenges the conventional narratives and stereotypes that have shaped our understanding of black history. He exposes the ways in which historical events and figures have been manipulated, misinterpreted, and oversimplified, leading to a distorted portrayal of the past. By delving into the complexities and nuances of African American history, Dagbovie offers a fresh perspective that challenges readers to think critically and engage with history in a more nuanced and empathetic manner.

This book is a valuable resource for students, educators, scholars, and anyone interested in expanding their knowledge of African American history. It provides a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of the past, challenging readers to think beyond the surface level and engage with the rich tapestry of African American experiences. By reclaiming the black past, Dagbovie encourages us to embrace a more inclusive and accurate understanding of our shared history, fostering a deeper appreciation for the diversity and complexity of the human experience.

\n Weight: 522g\n
Dimension: 240 x 160 x 23 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781786632036\n \n