The long fight against American slavery produced some of the most powerful autobiographies and works of fiction in American history. This four-evening book discussion series offers the chance to learn about, read, and informally discuss classics of the period by men and women, both black and white, who were central figures in the struggle to destroy race slavery in the United States.
Join Richard Bell, a professor of history at the University of Maryland, College Park, for short and vivid lectures about each work, followed by an inclusive discussion driven by comments and questions. Participants should read the featured book before the session. Sherry and cookies are available for refreshment.
FEATURED BOOK
Solomon Northup, Twelve Years a Slave
The source material for the 2013 Oscar-winning film, Twelve Years a Slave is Northup’s achingly powerful account of being kidnapped from upstate New York in 1841 and then sold into slavery in the Deep South, where he labored for more than a decade to try to escape and return to his family.
If you are interested in other sessions or the full course, click here.
Other Connections
Listen to Richard Bell’s interview on the Not Old Better podcast with host Paul Vogelzang.