The Choice: The Issue of Black Survival in America by Samuel Yette (1971/82) Audiobook, presented by Real Talk With ZSJ

NB: The price of this book is prohibitive for most working class Black people, ie.“Colonization of Black Information”

The term “Colonization of Black Information” refers to the historical and ongoing processes through which knowledge, narratives, and cultural expressions of Black people and communities have been dominated, appropriated, blocked or marginalized by external forces, often rooted in colonialism and the systemic, business and culture of white supremacy (racism). Allow us to provide some details, as it goes to why this book is so expensive.

Four quick points:

  1. Historical Context: During colonial times, European powers often suppressed indigenous knowledge systems and cultural practices, replacing them with their own narratives. This led to a loss of agency among Black (New Afrikan) communities in telling their own stories and defining their own realities and identities.
  2. Cultural Appropriation: The appropriation of Black culture, music, art, and other expressions by non-Black (white) individuals and/or groups without proper acknowledgment or respect can be seen as a continuation of this colonization. Such actions often strip the original meanings and contexts from cultural elements.
  3. Media Representation: The portrayal of Black individuals and communities in media perpetuate stereotypes, often framing them through a lens that aligns with dominant societal (white) narratives and serving to distort public perceptions and limit the understanding of the Black experiences in Amerikkka under the bootheel of its oppression.
  4. Access to Information: Structural inequalities (eg. this book) often result in Black communities having less access to platforms and resources to share their information and narratives. This, more frequently than not, leads to a dearth of knowledge and a lack of representation in academic, historical, socio-political, economic and cultural discussions.

Book Summary

“The Choice: The Issue of Black Survival in America” by Samuel Yette is a profound exploration of the challenges faced by the African American community in the United States. Yette presents a critical analysis of the socio-political landscape affecting Black Americans, discussing themes of survival, identity, and agency. The book examines historical contexts, systemic racism, and the ongoing struggle for civil rights, ultimately advocating for a conscious choice in addressing these persistent issues.

The outline that follows captures the essence of Yette’s work, emphasizing both the historical context and the contemporary issues facing the Black community in America

  • Introduction
    • Purpose of the book
    • Overview of the Black experience in America
  • Historical Context
    • Legacy of slavery
    • Civil Rights Movement
    • Continued oppression and disenfranchisement
  • Systemic Racism
    • Definition and examples
    • Impact on African American communities
    • Institutional barriers in education, employment, and justice
  • Identity and Culture
    • The importance of cultural heritage
    • The role of community and family
    • Challenges in maintaining identity in a predominantly white society
  • Survival Strategies
    • Individual vs. collective approaches
    • Importance of education and empowerment
    • Role of activism and political engagement
  • The Power of Choice
    • Defining choices in the context of survival
    • Historical examples of impactful choices made by Black leaders
    • Encouraging personal responsibility and agency
  • Vision for the Future
    • Hope and resilience within the Black community
    • Potential pathways for change
    • Call to action for readers
  • Conclusion
    • Summary of key points
    • Reinforcement of the importance of choice in the struggle for survival
    • Final thoughts on unity and collective action

  Here is an outline comprising a deeper exploration of the themes and concepts presented in “The Choice”

  1. Introduction
    • Yette sets the stage by discussing the historical and ongoing struggles of African Americans in the U.S. He emphasizes the need for awareness and understanding of the systemic issues that have shaped the Black experience.
  2. Historical Context
    • The author delves into the history of slavery, detailing its brutal realities and the long-lasting effects on subsequent generations. He explores the Civil Rights Movement, highlighting key figures and events that sought to dismantle institutional racism. Yette also discusses how the remnants of these historical injustices continue to affect Black Americans today.
  3. Systemic Racism
    • Yette provides a thorough analysis of systemic racism, defining it as a deeply ingrained issue that permeates various institutions, including education, healthcare, and the justice system. He illustrates how these systems fail Black individuals, contributing to socio-economic disparities and perpetuating cycles of poverty and disenfranchisement.
  4. Identity and Culture
    • The book emphasizes the significance of cultural identity and heritage for African Americans. Yette discusses the importance of community bonds, family structures, and the role of cultural expressions in fostering resilience. He examines the struggles of maintaining cultural identity in a society that often marginalizes or misrepresents Black culture.
  5. Survival Strategies
    • Yette advocates for both individual and collective strategies for survival. He stresses the importance of education as a tool for empowerment and encourages active participation in political processes. The author highlights examples of grassroots movements and organizations that have successfully mobilized communities to fight for their rights.
  6. The Power of Choice
    • Central to Yette’s thesis is the concept of choice. He posits that individuals have the power to make choices that can lead to positive change, both personally and collectively. He uses historical examples of leaders who made significant choices that impacted the trajectory of the civil rights struggle, inspiring readers to take ownership of their decisions.
  7. Vision for the Future
    • Yette expresses a hopeful vision for the future, emphasizing the resilience and strength of the Black community. He discusses the potential for change through unity and collective action. The author calls on readers to engage in the ongoing struggle for justice and equality, fostering a sense of responsibility towards future generations.
  8. Conclusion
    • The book concludes with a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness and action. Yette urges readers to reflect on their roles in the fight against systemic racism and to recognize that meaningful change requires both individual and collective effort.

Key Themes:

  • Empowerment through Education: Yette highlights education as a vital means for empowerment and breaking the cycle of oppression.
  • Cultural Identity: The preservation of cultural heritage is crucial for community strength and individual identity.
  • Agency and Responsibility: Individuals must recognize their power to make choices that affect their lives and communities.
  • Collective Action: The importance of solidarity and collaboration among African Americans to effect social change.

Overall, “The Choice” serves as a thought-provoking work that challenges readers to think critically about the issues facing the Black community while inspiring them to take action towards a more equitable future.

Part I A Partial Reading of The Choice The Issue of Black Survival in America by Samuel Yette Audiobook (Real Talk With ZSJ)

Starts @1min. 09 sec.

The Choice: The Issue of Black Survival in America: View/Study/ Download ALL 7 Parts presented by Real Talk With ZSJ HERE

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The Black Jacobins: Toussaint L’Ouverture and the San Domingo Revolution_eBook and Audiobook with Confronting Black Jacobins, Dr. Gerald Horne (eBook and Auiobook) and The Black Jacobins Reader

Last Updated 12-15-2024

Book Summary

“The Black Jacobins” is a historical account by C.L.R. James that explores the Haitian Revolution (1791-1804) and the role of its leader, Toussaint L’Ouverture. The book examines the interplay of class, race, and power in the struggle for Haitian independence from French colonial rule. James presents a detailed narrative of the events leading to the revolution, the complexity of the social dynamics involved, and the impact of the revolution on the wider world. Through the lens of L’Ouverture’s life and leadership, the book highlights the struggle for freedom and equality, making it a significant work in the study of history, race, and revolution.

The following outline encapsulates the major themes and structure of C.L.R. James’s seminal work, emphasizing the significance of the Haitian Revolution and its leader in the context of world history.

Outline of “The Black Jacobins”

  • Introduction
    • Context of the Haitian Revolution
    • Importance of Toussaint L’Ouverture
    • Themes of race, class, and revolution
  • Part I: The Setting
    • Colonialism in Saint-Domingue
      • Overview of the plantation economy
      • Social hierarchy: whites, free people of color, and enslaved people
    • Influence of the French Revolution
      • Impact of Enlightenment ideas
      • The rise of revolutionary sentiments
  • Part II: The Revolution Begins
    • Initial uprisings of enslaved people
    • Toussaint L’Ouverture’s early involvement
    • Key figures in the revolution
    • The role of external forces (France, Britain, Spain)
  • Part III: Toussaint L’Ouverture’s Leadership
    • Rise to power and political strategies
    • Military campaigns and tactics
    • Balancing alliances with France and other powers
    • Vision for Haiti and abolition of slavery
  • Part IV: Internal Conflicts
    • Tensions among revolutionary leaders
    • Class divisions within the revolutionary movement
    • The challenge of governance and social order
  • Part V: The Fall of Toussaint
    • Betrayal and capture by the French
    • Impact of his leadership on the revolution’s course
    • The rise of Jean-Jacques Dessalines and others
  • Conclusion: The Legacy of the Revolution
    • Outcomes of the Haitian Revolution
    • Influence on global movements for freedom and equality
    • Reflections on race and colonialism

The Black Jacobins_eBook

A classic and impassioned account of the first revolution in the Third World.This powerful, intensely dramatic book is the definitive account of the Haitian Revolution of 1794-1803, a revolution that began in the wake of the Bastille but became the model for the Third World liberation movements from Africa to Cuba. It is the story of the French colony of San Domingo, a place where the brutality of master toward slave was commonplace and ingeniously refined. And it is the story of a barely literate slave named Toussaint L’Ouverture, who led the black people of San Domingo in a successful struggle against successive invasions by overwhelming French, Spanish, and English forces and in the process helped form the first independent nation in the Caribbean.

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The Black Jacobins_Audiobook

Confronting Black Jacobins, Dr. Gerald Horne_eBook

Book Summary

“Confronting Black Jacobins” by Dr. Gerald Horne is an exploration of the historical context and implications of the Haitian Revolution, focusing on the revolutionary figures, particularly Toussaint L’Ouverture, and the broader impact on the Atlantic world.

The following overview and outline provides a structured capsule of the major themes and topics discussed in “Confronting Black Jacobins,” highlighting Dr. Horne’s analysis of the Haitian Revolution and its lasting significance.

Overview

  • Historical Context: The book situates the Haitian Revolution within the larger scope of the Atlantic slave trade and the French Revolution.
  • Key Figures: It examines the lives and contributions of important figures, especially Toussaint L’Ouverture, and their roles in challenging colonial power.
  • Impact of the Revolution: Horne discusses the implications of Haiti’s independence for slavery, colonialism, and race relations in the Americas and Europe.
  • Racial Dynamics: The narrative addresses the intersection of race, class, and revolution, highlighting how these elements influenced the struggle for freedom.
  • Legacy and Memory: The book reflects on how the Haitian Revolution has been remembered and misremembered in historical narratives.

Outline

  1. Introduction
    • Overview of the Haitian Revolution
    • Significance in world history
  2. Historical Background
    • The Atlantic slave trade and its impact
    • The role of colonial powers, especially France
  3. Key Figures
    • Toussaint L’Ouverture
      • Early life and rise to power
      • Military strategies and leadership
    • Other notable leaders
      • Jean-Jacques Dessalines
      • Henri Christophe
  4. The Revolution Begins
    • Factors leading to the uprising
    • Initial revolts and their suppression
  5. French Revolution Influence
    • Connection to the French Revolution
    • Ideological underpinnings and inspirations
  6. International Reactions
    • Responses from colonial powers
    • The impact on slave societies in the Americas
  7. Struggles for Control
    • Internal conflicts among revolutionary leaders
    • The role of external forces, including the U.S. and Britain
  8. Haiti’s Independence
    • Declaration of independence and its significance
    • Immediate consequences for Haiti and the region
  9. Legacy of the Haitian Revolution
    • Influence on abolitionist movements
    • Ongoing struggles for racial equality and social justice
  10. Conclusion
    • Reflection on the memory of the Haitian Revolution
    • Its relevance to contemporary issues of race and freedom

Confronting Black Jacobins, Dr. Gerald Horne_Audiobook

Audio start in earnest (Introduction) and corresponds to page 8 of the above Reader.

Part 1

Part 2

The Black Jacobins Reader

Containing a wealth of new scholarship and rare primary documents, The Black Jacobins Reader provides a comprehensive analysis of C. L. R. James’s classic history of the Haitian Revolution. In addition to considering the book’s literary qualities and its role in James’s emergence as a writer and thinker, the contributors discuss its production, context, and enduring importance in relation to debates about decolonization, globalization, postcolonialism, and the emergence of neocolonial modernity. The Reader also includes the reflections of activists and novelists on the book’s influence and a transcript of James’s 1970 interview with Studs Terkel.

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SUPPLEMENTAL: CLR JAMES VS MARCUS GARVEY

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A People Betrayed: The Role of the West in Rwanda’s Genocide by Linda Melvern_eBook and Audiobook, with Supplemental_Rwanda: A Nation Resilient in the Aftermath of Genocide, by Samuel Totten

Book Summary

“A People Betrayed: The Role of the West in Rwanda’s Genocide” by Linda Melvern offers a critical analysis of the international community’s failure to prevent and respond to the Rwandan genocide that occurred in 1994. The book examines the political, social, and historical contexts that led to the genocide, focusing on the complicity and inaction of Western governments and organizations. Melvern argues that the West’s neglect and misguided policies significantly contributed to the scale of the tragedy, highlighting the moral responsibilities of the international community in the face of human rights atrocities.

Essential Themes and Historical Context:

  1. Introduction to the Rwandan Genocide
    • Overview of the genocide and its historical significance
    • Introduction to the themes of betrayal and complicity
  2. Historical Background
    • Exploration of Rwanda’s colonial history and ethnic tensions
    • The impact of Belgian colonialism on Hutu-Tutsi relations
    • Key events leading up to the genocide, including the civil war
  3. The Build-Up to Genocide
    • Analysis of the political climate in Rwanda in the early 1990s
    • The role of propaganda and hate speech in inciting violence
    • Examination of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) and its goals
  4. International Response and Inaction
    • Evaluation of the United Nations’ involvement prior to and during the genocide
    • Critique of Western governments’ policies and actions (or lack thereof)
    • Discussion on the role of NGOs and humanitarian organizations
  5. The Genocide Unfolds
    • Detailed account of the events during the genocide from April to July 1994
    • Personal testimonies and narratives of survivors
    • Examination of the tactics used by perpetrators and the scale of violence
  6. Consequences of Inaction
    • Analysis of the aftermath of the genocide and its global implications
    • The long-term effects on Rwandan society and regional stability
    • Discussion of accountability and justice for the perpetrators
  7. Lessons Learned and Unlearned
    • Reflection on the lessons from the Rwandan genocide for international relations
    • Examination of how the genocide has influenced humanitarian intervention policies
    • Critique of the ongoing failures to address similar crises worldwide
  8. Conclusion
    • Summary of key arguments and insights from Melvern’s analysis
    • Call for recognition of moral responsibility in preventing future genocides

A People Betrayed: The Role of the West in Rwanda’s Genocide_eBook

In Rwanda in 1994 one million people were killed in a planned, public and political campaign. For six years Linda Melvern has worked on the story of this horrendous crime, and this book, a classic piece of investigative journalism, is the result. Its new and startling information has the making of an international scandal. The book contains a full narrative account of how the genocide unfolded and describes its scale, speed and intensity. And the book provides a terrible indictment, not just of the UN Security Council, but even more so of governments and individuals who could have prevented what was happening but chose not to do so. Drawing on a series of in-depth interviews, the author also tells the story of the unrecognized heroism of those who stayed on during the genocide – volunteer UN peacekeepers, their Force Commander the Canadian Lt.-General Romeo A. Dallaire, and Philippe Gaillard, the head of a delegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross, helped by medical teams from Medecins Sans Frontieres. The international community, which fifty years ago resolved that genocide never happened again, not only failed to prevent it happening in Rwanda, but, as this book shows, international funds intended to help the Rwandan economy actually helped to create the conditions that made the genocide possible. Documents held in Kigali, the Rwandan capital, as well as hitherto unpublished evidence of secret UN Security Council deliberations in New York, reveal a shocking sequence of events.
What happened in Rwanda shows that despite the creation of an organization set up to prevent a repetition of genocide – for the UN is central to this task – it failed to do so, even when the evidence was indisputable. At a time when increasing attention is being given to the need for UN reform, this book provides evidence to urgently accelerate and focus that process. Only by understanding how and why the genocide happened can there be any hope that this new century will break with the dismal record of the last.

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A People Betrayed: The Role of the West in Rwanda’s Genocide_Audiobook

Audio start in earnest (Rwanda Genocide April 1994 @ 4 mins. 55 sec.) and corresponds to page 14 of the above Reader.

Part 1

Part 2

Supplemental_Rwanda: A Nation Resilient in the Aftermath of Genocide, by Samuel Totten

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Mau Mau in Harlem?_The U.S. and the Liberation of Kenya, Gerald Horne|eBook and Audiobook| (Contemporary Black History), with Mau Mau Warrior Illustrated eBook, by Abiodun Alao (Author), Christa Hook (Illustrator).

Book Summary:

“Mau Mau in Harlem?: The U.S. and the Liberation of Kenya” is a book by historian Gerald Horne which explores the connections between the African-American Civil Rights movement in the United States and the Mau Mau uprising in Kenya, specifically how the struggle for Kenyan independence resonated with African Americans, leading to a sense of solidarity and even the idea of a “Mau Mau” movement within Harlem and other Black communities in the U.S. 

Key points about the book:

  • Focus on the Mau Mau: The book delves into the Mau Mau Uprising, a violent guerrilla campaign by Kenyan Kikuyu people against British colonial rule in the 1950s, primarily focused on land rights and self-determination. 
  • Harlem connection: It analyzes how the struggles of the Mau Mau movement were closely followed and supported by African Americans in Harlem, New York, who saw parallels with their own fight for civil rights in the United States. 
  • Scholarly research: Horne draws on extensive archival research conducted in the US, UK, and Kenya to provide a nuanced understanding of the interconnectedness between the two movements. 
  • Impact on Black consciousness: The book argues that the Mau Mau rebellion contributed to a growing sense of Black consciousness and solidarity among African Americans, further fueling the civil rights movement. 
  • The Mau Mau Uprising: This was a violent resistance movement against British colonial rule in Kenya, primarily led by the Kikuyu tribe, during the 1950s. 
  • African (American) Solidarity: The book argues that African Americans saw parallels between the Kenyan struggle against British colonialism and their own fight for civil rights in the U.S., leading to significant support for the Mau Mau movement within the Black community. 
  • Malcolm X’s “Mau Mau in Harlem” reference: A prominent example of this connection is Malcolm X’s statement about the potential need for a “Mau Mau” style uprising in Harlem, signifying a willingness to use more militant tactics to achieve racial equality. 
  • Historical Context: The book examines the broader historical context of the Cold War, where the U.S. was keen to demonstrate its anti-colonial stance, leading to some level of support for Kenyan independence. 

Mau Mau in Harlem, Gerald Horne?_eBook

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Mau Mau in Harlem, Gerald Horne?_Audiobook

Audio start in earnest (Introduction @ 4 mins. 45 sec.) and corresponds to page 12 of the above Reader.

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Part 2

Mau Mau Warrior Illustrated eBook, by Abiodun Alao (Author), Christa Hook (Illustrator).

Amazon Books: “Osprey’s study of the Mau Mau Rebellion (1952-1960) in Kenya and its fighters. The Mau Mau Freedom Fighters waged a guerrilla war for eight years against their British colonial rulers, which became known as the Mau Mau Uprising. The Mau Mau sought to win back their land and independence. This underground militia was an extremely powerful force employing tactics, which included the assassination of British settlers and the Africans who collaborated with the British, as well as raiding colonial prisons for weapons and staging daring ambushes in the Kenyan forests and mountains. The conflict saw these untrained warriors, deemed by many to be terrorists employ an innovative mix of traditional African warfare tactics, counterinsurgency methods and European firepower. The uprising ended in failure but set the stage for Kenyan independence in 1963. This title will explore their unique motivations, training and tactics, as well as their battle experience.”

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Malcolm X As Cultural Hero and Other Afrocentric Essays by Molefi Kete Asante and Dr. Molefi Kete Asante Lecture On Malcolm X (RBG MKA Video Player)

RBG Molefi Kete Asante Institute Lectures

21 Video Playlist

Book Summary

“Malcolm X As Cultural Hero and Other Afrocentric Essays” by Molefi Kete Asante is a collection of essays that examine the significance of Malcolm X as a cultural icon and his impact on African American identity and consciousness. Asante, a prominent scholar in Afrocentric studies, explores themes of cultural pride, resistance, and the importance of historical context in understanding the contributions of Malcolm X and other African figures. The essays advocate for a re-framing of African American history through an Afrocentric lens, emphasizing the need for empowerment and self-determination within the Black community.

Essential Themes and Discussions Presented:

  1. Introduction
    • Overview of the book’s purpose and themes
    • Contextualization of Malcolm X’s life and legacy
    • Introduction to Afrocentricity and its relevance to contemporary discussions
  2. Malcolm X as a Cultural Hero
    • Exploration of Malcolm X’s role as a symbol of resistance and empowerment
    • Analysis of his philosophy and rhetoric regarding race and identity
    • Discussion of the significance of Malcolm X in the context of the Civil Rights Movement
  3. The Concept of Afrocentricity
    • Definition and principles of Afrocentricity
    • Importance of cultural identity and historical perspective in Afrocentric thought
    • Critique of Eurocentrism and its effects on African and African American identity
  4. Malcolm X’s Influence on Afrocentric Thought
    • Examination of how Malcolm X’s ideas resonate with Afrocentric philosophy
    • Discussion of his critiques of systemic oppression and colonialism
    • Analysis of his vision for African unity and self-determination
  5. Cultural Identity and Empowerment
    • Exploration of the relationship between culture and identity in the African diaspora
    • The role of cultural heroes in shaping collective consciousness
    • Discussion of strategies for cultural empowerment and community building
  6. Historical Context of African American Struggles
    • Overview of historical events and figures that shaped the African American experience
    • Examination of the legacy of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism
    • The impact of these historical factors on contemporary issues facing the Black community
  7. Contemporary Relevance of Malcolm X’s Ideas
    • Analysis of how Malcolm X’s teachings apply to current social justice movements
    • Reflection on the ongoing struggles for racial equality and justice
    • Discussion of the importance of maintaining cultural heritage in today’s society
  8. Conclusion
    • Summary of key themes and insights from the essays
    • Final reflections on the enduring legacy of Malcolm X as a cultural hero
    • Emphasis on the importance of Afrocentric perspectives in understanding history and identity

Malcolm X As Cultural Hero and Other Afrocentric Essays by Molefi Kete Asante (1993)

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Dr. Molefi Kete Asante Folder

Minister Malcolm X | “A Comprehensive Achieve” Folder