Black Americans have had an ongoing presence in the American military; from the Revolution to the Civil War to Vietnam to the War in Iraq; yet their contributions are often relegated to a footnote of history; if mentioned at all. The recent successes and wide visibility of African Americans in the military -- such as those of Colin Powell and Shoshanna Johnson -- belie a harsh reality: the Army was segregated until the Korean War. Only in the last fifty years have blacks been allowed to serve in a manner commensurate with both their skills and commitment.Now; in a book that honors their service to their country; more than two dozen veterans and military personnel; including Brigadier General Vincent Brooks; one of the foremost spokespersons to the media on the War in Iraq; speak for themselves and their peers about their experiences -- in combat; in the barracks; and in their hometowns after they returned from war. Each profile is accompanied by photographs of the men and women from their days in uniform; as well as specially commissioned contemporary portraits from acclaimed photographer Ron Tarver. With stories of patriotism combined with a determination to overcome obstacles; We Were There is an inspiring account of the extraordinary sacrifices of everyday Americans.
#288744 in Books Elijah Wald 2004-01-01 2004-12-14Format: Bargain PriceOriginal language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x .92 x 6.00l; .90 #File Name: 0060524278368 pagesEscaping the Delta Robert Johnson and the Invention of the Blues
Review
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Debunks the Johnson mythsBy Paul H JanischSets the scene for Johnson as a musician and not some sort of mythical character who sold his soul to the devil. Paints a contemporary picture of the music at the time. Stunning book. A must for all blues fans. You are left with a sense of intrigue.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Excellent research and background into the BluesBy CustomerExcellent research and background into the Blues. Thank goodness for youtube; so you can have a listen to these artist that you probably never heard before. This is necessary so you can understand the differences between the blues singers. Elijah's love for the blues and the true history and not just the romantic view comes shining through and for that I applaud him. A must read for old school blues lovers and for ones who want to learn the real history of the music. Robert Johnson is only the tip of the iceberg and that's a good thing.3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Insightful Musician's PerspectiveBy J. R. Wood Jr.The known facts of Robert Johnson's life have been written up in books and magazines ad nauseum since his recordings were released on LP's by Columbia in the 60's and he was subsequently "rediscovered"; but Mr. Wald's perspective is fresh and totally engrossing : placing Robert Johnson's music in perspective with his sources and the trends of that time and place. As a guitarist; I couldn't put it down; and often refer back to it in order to better understand his songs. Excellent in all respects.
