“A masterpiece….[W]ill rightfully assume its place as the standard biography of a truly great figure in the nation’s past.†―New York Newsday Former slave; orator; journalist; autobiographer; revolutionary on behalf of a just America; Frederick Douglass was a towering figure; at once consummately charismatic and flawed. His Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass (1845) galvanized the antislavery movement and is one of the truly seminal works of African-American literature. In this masterful and compelling biography; William S. McFeely captures the many sides of Douglass―his boyhood on the Chesapeake; his self-education; his rebellion and rising expectations; his marriage; affairs; and intense friendships; his bitter defeat and transcendent courage―and recreates the high drama of a turbulent era.
#663985 in Books Karl Jacoby 2016-06-14 2016-06-14Format: Deckle EdgeOriginal language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.60 x 1.20 x 6.50l; .0 #File Name: 039323925X336 pagesThe Strange Career of William Ellis The Texas Slave Who Became a Mexican Millionaire
Review
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Good historical non-ficton that reads like a novel.By Miguel V.Reads live a novel but it actually falls under the category of historical non-fiction. The author did extensive research. It took him decades; he said; to investigate the life and times of William Ellis; a master "trickster". The reader will readily acknowledge the commendable biographical piece of historical non-fiction this book is. Get your copy today and read on for more insights.3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. It's great book fascinating history of the US and Mexico at the time of the Civil War; told through the life of William EllisBy CustomerThis is a great read! It's a fun way to learn history and has relevant lessons for today. I'm from Texas and I learned a lot about the history of Texas and Mexico during the period right before and after the end of the Civil War. By painting a picture of those times through the life of William Ellis; the saga is personal and memorable. Issues like fluid racial lines during the era and movable cultural barriers come alive in the pages of this book. I did not understand that the Mexican constitution was written as a strong response against slavery. Ellis; born a slave; was a master at languages and cultures. His success –against all odds –was inspiring. Author Jacoby has woven the story together seamlessly and gave us a book that is a pleasure to read.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A great tale of crossing race and borders in the 19th ...By ELMJacoby does it again. A great tale of crossing race and borders in the 19th c. Academics and non-academics will find this book entertaining and instructive. Jacoby's engaging writing makes this a read an enjoyable and instructive romp across national and cultural boundaries.
