Originally published in 1948, Bontemps stellar history of African Americans traces the story of his people from civilizations in Africa, through the Middle Passage, to bondage and life after emancipation in the United States. Told with a storyteller's stance and tone, this sweeping and provocative account evokes deep emotion through poignant images of human dignity and its debasement over centuries. Simple language and plain analogies deliver a crystal clear analysis of how power relationships work to cement oppression and bondage in societies in general and in the United States in particular. This analysis weaves the stories into a chronicle that dovetails with and augments contemporary understandings of African American history for children.

A history of the Black race, from the early tribes of Africa and empire of Ethiopia, through the practice of slavery in many areas, especially the United States, to early twentieth century achievements of African Americans.