Freedman, Russell. The Voice that Challenged a Nation: Marian Anderson and the Struggle for Equal Rights. New York: Clarion Books.
Marian Anderson was blessed with one of the greatest singing voices of all times. She was blessed not only for singing, but also with the strength and talent in order to have a great impact on the struggle for equal rights. Marian would never describe herself as confrontational, and her intention was never to have the impact that she did because all she cared for was singing. She grew up in an immigrant populated neighborhood with not a lot of money however she attended her church and particpated in their choir faithfully. She never missed a day and for that they rewarded her. The Union Baptist Church proved to be her gauntlet into her musical career. They provided money in order for her to buy her first evening gown, and then provided money for her to attend a singing school. Although, she faced many obstacles because of her color her biggest opposition came long after her stardom. She had been denied the right to sing at the Constitution Hall by the Daughters of the American Revolution. Even though she had powerful friends such as the First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt, they refused to let her perform there because of her color. Eleanor in support of Anderson decided to resign from DAR creating worldwide attention. In support for Marion she was asked to perform at the Lincoln Memorial in front of 75,000 people, way more than what Constitution Hall could accomodate. This proved to be a momentous occasion and a defining moment in the struggle for equal rights.
Freedman tells the beautiful story of Mariane Anderson and how her life became to be such a prominent one. Although, she had incredible odds against her, she managed to take what God had gave her and truly make an impact. Freedman tells us the story of her life with accurate and defining details. The photographs bring the story to life and allows us to see through her eyes during that time period by including racially discriminating signs. He includes many quotes by Anderson herself, and other important characters. Although this books only highlights Anderson's life the reader will surely appreciate her contribution to the struggle of equal rights.
Friday, May 2, 2008
York's Adventures with Lewis and Clark
Blumberg, Rhoda. York's Adventures with Lewis and Clark. 2004. New York: Harper Collins.
More than likely the story of Lewis and Clark and their journey of exploration throughout the western part of the United States is a familiar one. Sacagawea is also a familiar name, knowing that she was a brave Indian woman who contributed greatly to their quest. However, the story of York is an unfamiliar one. Clark was a rich plantation owner who had many slaves, but one in particular was very special to him and his family. As a young boy, they played together, swam together, and protected one another. As they grew older, York became his personal assistant and by slavery rules he had to do whatever Clark wished. When Clark was asked to particpate in this incredible journey he indeed expected York to accompany him. York became an invaluable part of this mission. His black skin, who once made him inferior, provided to be the key in gaining the trust of Indians. His strength and power was also valued by all the men in the Corps. Although, he was a vital part in this historical event, because of his skin color, he did not receive recognition. Clark never wrote his name down on the log of men who participated and therefore did not earn a penny for his efforts. In the end, York died a lonely and unproserperous man.
This story is unbelievably powerful and saddening. Blumberg provides the reader with historically accurate information by documenting journel entries, newspaper articles, maps, portraits, and other meaninful illustrations. Although, the information regarding York's life is not overwhelming the documentation provided gives the reader enough insight to realize his contributions made during this event. Blumberg defines York's life threw his eyes and also threw the eyes of the white men. We learn what it was like to live as a slave and all of the hardships that he had to endure. The reader really gets to experience the pain and sorrow relating to the life of an African American during this time period. It is amazing to see how vastly different the white men and the Indians treated black people. Although York, proved to be an invaluable component to the mission, it is amazing at how many people will not find his name a familiar one. This book definately needs to be added to any history section in the library.
More than likely the story of Lewis and Clark and their journey of exploration throughout the western part of the United States is a familiar one. Sacagawea is also a familiar name, knowing that she was a brave Indian woman who contributed greatly to their quest. However, the story of York is an unfamiliar one. Clark was a rich plantation owner who had many slaves, but one in particular was very special to him and his family. As a young boy, they played together, swam together, and protected one another. As they grew older, York became his personal assistant and by slavery rules he had to do whatever Clark wished. When Clark was asked to particpate in this incredible journey he indeed expected York to accompany him. York became an invaluable part of this mission. His black skin, who once made him inferior, provided to be the key in gaining the trust of Indians. His strength and power was also valued by all the men in the Corps. Although, he was a vital part in this historical event, because of his skin color, he did not receive recognition. Clark never wrote his name down on the log of men who participated and therefore did not earn a penny for his efforts. In the end, York died a lonely and unproserperous man.
This story is unbelievably powerful and saddening. Blumberg provides the reader with historically accurate information by documenting journel entries, newspaper articles, maps, portraits, and other meaninful illustrations. Although, the information regarding York's life is not overwhelming the documentation provided gives the reader enough insight to realize his contributions made during this event. Blumberg defines York's life threw his eyes and also threw the eyes of the white men. We learn what it was like to live as a slave and all of the hardships that he had to endure. The reader really gets to experience the pain and sorrow relating to the life of an African American during this time period. It is amazing to see how vastly different the white men and the Indians treated black people. Although York, proved to be an invaluable component to the mission, it is amazing at how many people will not find his name a familiar one. This book definately needs to be added to any history section in the library.
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