Slavery and Freedom in the Bluegrass State: Revisiting My Old Kentucky Home

The book Slavery and Freedom in the Bluegrass State explores the history of African Americans in Kentucky, challenging historic myths and highlighting their experiences of pain, protest, and perseverance. It uses the song and museum site of My Old Kentucky Home as a central motif to explore topics such as the domestic slave trade, Black Shakers, rebellion, racial violence, the intersection of race and sports, and the controversy over a historic monument. The book gives voice to the thoughts, desires, and sacrifices of generations of African Americans whose stories have been buried in the past.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 380 pages
Publication date: 10 January 2023
Publisher: The University Press of Kentucky

In the wake of the ongoing social justice movement aimed at eradicating racial inequality, there has been a growing debate surrounding the performance of Stephen Foster's iconic song, "My Old Kentucky Home," at public events, particularly the Kentucky Derby. The song, despite its historical significance, has been criticized for its inaccurate portrayal of slavery in the state.

To address this issue, editor Gerald L. Smith has compiled a remarkable collection of essays in Slavery and Freedom in the Bluegrass State. Through the lens of the song and the museum site of My Old Kentucky Home, the chapters in this book delve into the long-forgotten stories of pain, protest, and perseverance of African Americans in Kentucky.

Rather than perpetuating historic myths, the chapters present a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of Black life in the state. The book is chronologically arranged, offering fresh insights into various topics such as the domestic slave trade, Black Shakers, pre-Civil War rebellion and racial violence, the resilience of Black women in their pursuit of political and educational equality, the intersection of race and sports, and the controversy surrounding a historic monument.

By presenting these stories in a comprehensive and engaging manner, Slavery and Freedom in the Bluegrass State offers readers a unique perspective on the strategies employed by African Americans to navigate race and place within the context of a border state. The book not only sheds light on the past but also gives voice to the thoughts, desires, and sacrifices of generations of African Americans whose stories have been buried in the annals of history.

This groundbreaking collection is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the complex history and ongoing struggles of African Americans in Kentucky and beyond. It serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and progress in our collective journey toward a more inclusive and equitable society.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813197111