Black Magic looks at the origins; meaning; and uses of Conjure—the African American tradition of healing and harming that evolved from African; European; and American elements—from the slavery period to well into the twentieth century. Illuminating a world that is dimly understood by both scholars and the general public; Yvonne P. Chireau describes Conjure and other related traditions; such as Hoodoo and Rootworking; in a beautifully written; richly detailed history that presents the voices and experiences of African Americans and shows how magic has informed their culture. Focusing on the relationship between Conjure and Christianity; Chireau shows how these seemingly contradictory traditions have worked together in a complex and complementary fashion to provide spiritual empowerment for African Americans; both slave and free; living in white America. As she explores the role of Conjure for African Americans and looks at the transformations of Conjure over time; Chireau also rewrites the dichotomy between magic and religion. With its groundbreaking analysis of an often misunderstood tradition; this book adds an important perspective to our understanding of the myriad dimensions of human spirituality.
#357780 in Books William H Brewer 2003-02-01Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x 1.55 x 6.00l; 2.00 #File Name: 0520238656628 pagesUp and Down California in 1860 1864 The Journal of William H Brewer
Review
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Fascinating reading!By mkhI bought this book upon recommendation of a friend; and found it absolutely fascinating. As a native Californian that knows the state very well; this book gave me insight in what it was like before 45 million people lived here! Many of the place names are still in use - but now the places are covered with highways; homes; and shopping centers! I have seen California grow a lot in the last 60 years; and this adds to that perspective! While there are a few spots yet in California that would look the same to Brewer today as they did in the 1860's; he would be shocked at what has happened. I especially liked some of his opinions about Los Angeles and the Central Valley!0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Up and Down CaliforniaBy Ian ClementsWhat a fascinating accounting of California as it was. Brewer's own field notes tell the story of places he visited on his journey. Many still exist today and what makes this special is that you can visit them with Brewer's observations in mind as a comparison.This is a great companion to "The WPA Guide to California: The Federal Writers' Project Guide to 1930s California".1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. I have not finished reading it yet but I find ...By CustomerI have not finished reading it yet but I find it very interesting. I was born and raised in California and lived there until my late twenties in various regions. The descriptions of the areas are remarkably similar to what is found today; in spite of the population growth. I will pass this book on to my sons who live in Cali;...maybe. Or I might buy them their own copies!
