Slavery by Another Name: The Re-Enslavement of Black Americans from the Civil War to World War II by Douglas A. Blackmon_eBook and Audiobook, with Slavery by Another Name Documentary Film

August 3, 2025August 4, 2025RBG Street Scholar Leave a comment

The 13th Amendment to the United States Constitution provides that “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.”

**Read:** Michele Goodwin,The Thirteenth Amendment: Modern Slavery, Capitalism, and Mass Incarceration, 104 Cornell Law Review. 899 (2019)

Book Summary

Douglas A. Blackmon’s “Slavery by Another Name: The Re-Enslavement of Black Americans from the Civil War to World War II” explores the continuation of forced labor and systemic oppression of Black Americans in the decades following the Civil War. The book argues that despite the abolition of slavery, many African Americans were subjected to new forms of servitude that mirrored the conditions of slavery.

The overview and outline that follows provides a structured look at the contents of Blackmon’s “Slavery by Another Name,” encapsulating the main themes and historical significance of the re-enslavement of Black Americans post-Civil War and its enduring legacy.

Overview:

Historical Context: The book examines the period from the end of the Civil War through World War II, highlighting how economic, social, and legal systems perpetuated the exploitation of Black Americans.
Convict Leasing System: Blackmon focuses on the convict leasing system, where African Americans were often arrested on dubious charges and forced into labor for private companies, effectively re-enslaving them.
Economic Exploitation: The narrative details how Southern states and businesses exploited Black labor to rebuild the economy after the Civil War, using tactics that included intimidation, violence, and legal manipulation.
Personal Stories: The book interweaves personal narratives and testimonies of individuals affected by these practices, providing a human face to the historical analysis.
Legacy and Impact: Blackmon discusses the long-term effects of these practices on African American communities and how they laid the groundwork for ongoing racial inequality and injustice.

Outline:

Introduction
- Purpose of the book
- Overview of the argument regarding the continuity of slavery-like conditions
Chapter 1: The End of the Civil War
- The immediate aftermath of the Civil War and abolition of slavery
- Initial hopes and challenges faced by newly freed Black Americans
Chapter 2: The Rise of Jim Crow
- The establishment of Jim Crow laws and systemic racism
- How these laws facilitated the re-enslavement of Black Americans
Chapter 3: The Convict Leasing System
- Detailed description of convict leasing and how it operated
- The role of law enforcement and the judicial system in perpetuating this system
Chapter 4: Economic Motivations
- The economic interests of Southern states and businesses in maintaining forced labor
- Analysis of how Black labor was exploited for profit
Chapter 5: Personal Narratives
- Accounts of individuals who experienced re-enslavement
- Impact of these experiences on families and communities
Chapter 6: Resistance and Resilience
- Examples of resistance against re-enslavement practices
- The role of Black communities in advocating for rights and reform
Chapter 7: National Attention and Reform Movements
- The growing awareness of racial injustices and exploitation
- Efforts by activists and organizations to combat systemic oppression
Chapter 8: The Legacy of Re-Enslavement
- Examination of the long-term effects on Black Americans and society at large
- Connections to contemporary issues of racial inequality and injustice
Conclusion
- Summary of key themes and arguments
- Reflection on the importance of understanding this history in the context of modern America

Douglas A. Blackmon’s “Slavery by Another Name: The Re-Enslavement of Black Americans from the Civil War to World War II” is a groundbreaking work that sheds light on the continuation of racial oppression and forced labor in the United States long after the formal abolition of slavery. Here are some deeper insights into the themes, events, and significance of the book:

Key Themes and Insights:

Continuity of Oppression:
- Blackmon argues that the end of slavery did not lead to true freedom for African Americans. Instead, a series of laws and practices emerged to maintain racial hierarchy and economic exploitation, creating a system that functioned similarly to slavery.
Convict Leasing System:
- One of the central focuses of the book is the convict leasing system, which allowed Southern states to lease convicts (often disproportionately Black men) to private companies for labor. This system became a profitable enterprise, with prisoners subjected to harsh conditions, violence, and little regard for their lives or well-being.
Jim Crow Laws:
- Following the Reconstruction era, Jim Crow laws institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination. Blackmon details how these laws facilitated the re-enslavement of Black Americans, enforcing a social order that kept them marginalized and economically disadvantaged.
Economic Exploitation:
- The book examines how economic interests in the South were heavily reliant on the exploitation of Black labor. Southern states and businesses sought to rebuild their economies after the Civil War by using forced labor, which was seen as a cost-effective means to achieve profitability, particularly in industries like agriculture and mining.
Personal Narratives and Testimonies:
- Blackmon incorporates personal stories of individuals who were subjected to these oppressive systems. These narratives bring a human element to the historical analysis, illustrating the trauma and resilience of those affected. Stories of families torn apart, individuals falsely accused and imprisoned, and the struggles for dignity and justice are poignantly detailed.
Resistance Movements:
- The author highlights the various forms of resistance against the re-enslavement practices, including protests, legal challenges, and the efforts of Black communities to advocate for their rights. This theme emphasizes the agency of Black Americans in fighting against systemic oppression.
National Awareness and Reform:
- As the 20th century progressed, growing awareness of racial injustices began to emerge. Blackmon discusses the role of activists and organizations that brought attention to the plight of Black Americans, pushing for reforms and challenging the status quo.
Long-term Legacy:
- The book concludes by examining the enduring legacy of these practices on contemporary American society. Blackmon argues that the historical exploitation of Black Americans laid the groundwork for ongoing issues of racial inequality, economic disparity, and social injustice that continue to affect African American communities today.

Conclusion:

“Slavery by Another Name” is a vital contribution to the understanding of American history, particularly regarding race relations and the systemic oppression of African Americans. Blackmon’s work challenges readers to recognize the complexities of freedom and the pervasive nature of racism that persisted after the Civil War. By illuminating the harsh realities of the convict leasing system and other forms of re-enslavement, the book serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by Black Americans and the importance of acknowledging this history in the pursuit of justice and equality today.

The book received critical acclaim, including the Pulitzer Prize for History, and has significantly influenced scholarship on race, labor, and American history, encouraging a reevaluation of the narrative surrounding the post-Civil War era and its implications for modern society.

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The Crimes of Empire: The History and Politics of an Outlaw Nation by Carl Boggs_eBook and Audiobook

May 13, 2025May 15, 2025RBG Street Scholar Leave a comment

Book Summary

“The Crimes of Empire: The History and Politics of an Outlaw Nation” critically analyzes the foreign policy of the United States, asserting that the U.S. operates as an “outlaw nation” that frequently disregards international laws and norms. Boggs examines the historical roots of American imperialism, the influences of corporate interests, and the patterns of militarism and violence that characterize U.S. actions on the global stage. Through a comprehensive exploration of these themes, the book aims to shed light on the motivations behind U.S. foreign policy decisions and their implications for global peace and justice.

“The outline that follows captures the key themes and structure of ‘The Crimes of Empire: The History and Politics of an Outlaw Nation’ , highlighting the critical examination of U.S. foreign policy as an expression of imperialism, the influence of corporate interests, the patterns of militarism and violence, and the ideological narratives that justify America’s actions on the global stage.”

I. Introduction

A. Concept of the “Outlaw Nation”
B. Objectives and scope of the book
C. Significance of critiquing U.S. foreign policy

II. Historical Context of U.S. Imperialism

A. Foundations of American Imperialism
- Manifest Destiny and territorial expansion
- The impact of the Spanish-American War
B. Cold War Interventions
- Strategies of containment and military interventions
Proxy wars and regime change initiatives

III. Corporate Influence on Foreign Policy

A. Interplay between Corporations and State Power
- The role of multinational corporations in shaping policy
- Economic motivations behind interventions
B. Case Studies
- Oil interests in the Middle East
Mining and resource extraction in Latin America

IV. Patterns of Militarism and Violence

A. Military Interventions
- Justifications for military actions
- Effects on civilian populations and stability
B. Human Rights Violations
- Examination of war crimes and accountability
Torture and abuses in conflict zones

V. Ideological Underpinnings of U.S. Actions

A. Rhetoric of Democracy and Freedom
- Humanitarian intervention as a pretext
- Critique of liberal imperialism
B. American Exceptionalism
- Historical context and implications for foreign policy
Challenges to the exceptionalism narrative

VI. Contemporary Challenges in U.S. Foreign Policy

A. The War on Terror
- Military actions and justifications since 9/11
- Global security implications and consequences
B. Diplomatic Relations
- Tensions with Russia and China
Effects of sanctions and isolationist policies

VII. Alternatives and Paths Forward

A. Vision for a New Global Order
- Building international solidarity and grassroots movements
- Emphasizing diplomacy over militarism
B. Advocating for Just Foreign Policy
- Principles of accountability and transparency
Role of civil society in influencing policy

VIII. Conclusion

A. Recap of key insights and arguments
B. Urgency of re-evaluating U.S. foreign policy
C. Call to action for a more equitable global framework

“The Crimes of Empire: The History and Politics of an Outlaw Nation” provides an in-depth critique of U.S. foreign policy, examining the historical patterns, ideological motivations, and consequences of American actions on the global stage. Here’s a more detailed exploration of the key themes and insights presented in the book:

Key Themes and Insights

1. Concept of the “Outlaw Nation”

Definition: Boggs posits that the United States operates as an “outlaw nation,” meaning it frequently engages in actions that violate international law, norms, and principles of sovereignty. This characterization challenges the conventional view of the U.S. as a promoter of democracy and human rights.
Implications: The label suggests a need to critically assess U.S. foreign policy actions and their impact on global stability, justice, and human rights.

2. Historical Context of U.S. Imperialism

Manifest Destiny: Boggs traces the roots of American imperialism back to the 19th century, where the ideology of Manifest Destiny justified territorial expansion across North America. This expansion often involved the displacement and subjugation of Indigenous populations.
Spanish-American War: The 1898 conflict marked a significant turning point, as the U.S. began to assert its influence beyond its borders, acquiring territories such as Puerto Rico and the Philippines. Boggs argues that this was an early manifestation of imperial ambitions.

3. Cold War Dynamics

Containment Strategy: During the Cold War, the U.S. adopted a strategy of containment against communism, leading to military interventions and support for authoritarian regimes that aligned with American interests. Boggs examines the ideological justification for these actions, often framed as necessary for global security.
Proxy Conflicts: The U.S. engaged in numerous proxy wars, supporting regimes and insurgencies in various regions to counter Soviet influence. This often resulted in human rights abuses and long-term destabilization in affected countries.

4. Corporate Influence on Foreign Policy

Economic Motives: Boggs highlights the significant role of multinational corporations in shaping U.S. foreign policy, arguing that economic interests often drive military interventions. He explores how corporate lobbying and investments influence decision-making at the highest levels of government.
Resource Exploitation: Case studies, particularly in the oil and mining sectors, illustrate how U.S. actions are frequently motivated by the desire to secure access to valuable resources, often at the expense of local populations and environments.

5. Militarism and Violence

Military Interventions: The book critiques the frequent use of military force by the U.S. as a tool of foreign policy, questioning the justifications provided for these interventions. Boggs highlights the devastating consequences for civilian populations and the long-term impacts on global peace.
Human Rights Violations: Boggs addresses the issue of accountability for war crimes and human rights violations committed during U.S.-led conflicts. He emphasizes the need for recognition and redress for affected communities.

6. Ideological Frameworks

Rhetoric of Freedom: The author critiques the use of humanitarian intervention and the promotion of democracy as justifications for military action. He argues that these narratives often mask the underlying imperial motives and lead to further conflict.
American Exceptionalism: Boggs examines the concept of American exceptionalism, which posits that the U.S. has a unique role in promoting democracy and freedom. He argues that this narrative can hinder critical reflection on the harmful impacts of U.S. policies abroad.

7. Contemporary Challenges

Post-9/11 Foreign Policy: The book analyzes the ramifications of the War on Terror, initiated after the September 11 attacks. Boggs discusses how this has led to prolonged military engagements and a shift in U.S. foreign policy toward more aggressive postures.
Geopolitical Tensions: Boggs explores current tensions with nations like Russia and China, emphasizing how U.S. policies can provoke conflict and undermine international stability.

8. Alternatives and Solutions

New Global Order: Boggs advocates for a reimagining of international relations that prioritizes diplomacy, cooperation, and grassroots movements over militarism and imperialism. He calls for a shift towards policies that respect sovereignty and promote social justice.
Role of Civil Society: The book emphasizes the importance of civil society in holding governments accountable and advocating for a just foreign policy. Boggs encourages collective action and solidarity among nations to challenge imperial practices.

Conclusion

Carl Boggs’ “The Crimes of Empire” provides a thorough and critical examination of U.S. foreign policy, exposing the complexities and contradictions inherent in America’s role on the world stage. By analyzing historical patterns, corporate influences, and ideological motivations, the book challenges readers to reconsider the narratives surrounding U.S. actions and their implications for global peace and justice. Boggs’ work serves as a call to action for a more equitable and responsible approach to international relations, emphasizing the need for accountability and a commitment to the principles of sovereignty and human rights.

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Endless Holocausts: Mass Death in the History of the United States Empire by David Michael Smith_eBook and Audiobook

February 20, 2025March 9, 2025RBG Street Scholar Leave a comment

Book Summary

“Endless Holocausts: Mass Death in the History of the United States Empire” by David Michael Smith is a critical examination of the recurring themes of mass violence and genocide throughout American history. The book explores how systemic oppression, colonialism, and imperial ambitions have led to widespread death and suffering, particularly among marginalized communities. Smith argues that these historical atrocities are often overlooked or minimized in mainstream narratives, and he seeks to confront the uncomfortable truths about the United States’ role in perpetuating mass death both domestically and abroad. Through a combination of historical analysis, case studies, and theoretical frameworks, the book aims to shed light on the darker aspects of American empire and challenge readers to acknowledge and confront this legacy.

Outline

Introduction
- Overview of the book’s themes and objectives
- Discussion of the concept of “endless holocausts” in relation to U.S. history
- Introduction to the framework for analyzing mass death and systemic violence
1: Colonial Foundations of Mass Death
- Examination of the genocidal practices against Indigenous peoples during colonization
- Analysis of how colonialism laid the groundwork for future acts of mass violence
- Discussion of the role of racism and ideology in justifying violence against marginalized populations
2: Slavery and the Slave Trade
- Exploration of the impact of the transatlantic slave trade on African populations
- Analysis of the violence and dehumanization inherent in the institution of slavery
- Discussion of the long-term consequences of slavery on American society and race relations
3: The Indian Wars and Expansionism
- Examination of U.S. military campaigns against Indigenous nations in the 19th century
- Analysis of the policies of removal, relocation, and extermination
- Discussion of how these actions were rationalized by notions of Manifest Destiny
4: Imperialism and Foreign Interventions
- Exploration of U.S. imperialism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries
- Analysis of military interventions in places like the Philippines, Latin America, and beyond
- Discussion of the consequences of these interventions for local populations and global politics
5: The Cold War and Mass Violence
- Examination of the U.S. role in supporting authoritarian regimes and engaging in covert operations during the Cold War
- Analysis of the impact of U.S. policies on human rights and mass atrocities in various regions
- Discussion of the legacy of Cold War interventions on contemporary global issues
6: The War on Terror and Contemporary Mass Death
- Exploration of the repercussions of the War on Terror, including the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq
- Analysis of civilian casualties and the human cost of military engagements
- Discussion of the ongoing repercussions of these conflicts on global stability and human rights
7: The Political Economy of Mass Death
- Examination of the economic and political factors that contribute to mass violence
- Discussion of the role of capitalism, militarism, and imperial interests in perpetuating cycles of violence
- Analysis of how systemic inequalities and exploitation lead to mass death
8: Acknowledging and Confronting the Legacy
- Exploration of the importance of recognizing and confronting the history of mass death in the U.S.
- Discussion of the role of education, activism, and historical memory in addressing these issues
- Advocacy for a more truthful and comprehensive understanding of American history
Conclusion
- Summary of key themes and insights presented throughout the book
- Reflection on the implications of mass death for contemporary society and politics
- Call to action for individuals and communities to engage with this legacy and work towards justice

Significance of the Book

“Endless Holocausts” is a provocative and essential contribution to the discourse on American history, imperialism, and systemic violence. David Michael Smith’s critical examination of mass death and the historical patterns that underlie it challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the United States’ role in perpetuating suffering both domestically and globally. By drawing connections between past atrocities and contemporary issues, the book calls for a reckoning with history and a commitment to justice for marginalized communities. Smith’s work serves as a reminder of the need for accountability and awareness in the ongoing struggle against systemic oppression and violence.

“Endless Holocausts: Mass Death in the History of the United States Empire” is a profound and thought-provoking exploration of how mass violence and genocide have been integral to the historical narrative of the United States. The book challenges readers to confront the uncomfortable realities of American history, focusing on the systemic oppression and mass death that have characterized the nation’s imperial trajectory. Here’s a deeper look into the key themes, arguments, and implications presented in the book:

Key Themes and Arguments

Historical Continuity of Violence
- Smith argues that mass death is not just an aberration in American history but rather a recurring theme fueled by imperial ambitions, colonial policies, and systemic racism. He presents a narrative that connects past atrocities to contemporary issues, emphasizing that understanding this continuity is essential for addressing current injustices.
- The book contends that the patterns of violence established in earlier historical periods still resonate today, influencing policies and societal attitudes.
Colonialism and Genocide
- The examination of colonialism serves as a foundational aspect of the book. Smith details how the colonization of Indigenous lands involved systematic violence, displacement, and extermination. This historical context is crucial for understanding the ongoing effects of colonialism on Indigenous communities in the U.S.
- He emphasizes that the ideologies that justified these violent actions—such as manifest destiny and racial superiority—continue to inform contemporary attitudes towards marginalized groups.
Slavery and Racial Oppression
- The book delves into the violent legacy of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade, highlighting the dehumanization and brutality faced by enslaved Africans. Smith argues that this legacy has profound implications for race relations in the United States, contributing to systemic racism and social inequities that persist today.
- Smith explores how the institution of slavery was not only a means of economic exploitation but also a mechanism of mass death, with countless lives lost due to violence, neglect, and inhumane conditions.
Imperialism and Military Interventions
- Smith analyzes U.S. imperialism, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, revealing how military interventions in countries like the Philippines and various Latin American nations resulted in significant civilian casualties and suffering.
- The book discusses how these interventions were often framed as benevolent actions but were fundamentally driven by economic and strategic interests, leading to the imposition of American power at the cost of local populations.
Cold War Atrocities
- The Cold War period is scrutinized for its role in perpetuating mass violence, with the U.S. supporting authoritarian regimes and engaging in covert operations that resulted in human rights abuses and mass deaths in various regions.
- Smith argues that the geopolitical motivations of this era contributed to a culture of impunity and disregard for human rights, with lasting consequences that are still felt in many parts of the world.
Contemporary Context of Mass Death
- In examining the War on Terror, Smith highlights the human cost of U.S. military actions in Afghanistan and Iraq, drawing attention to civilian casualties and the broader implications for global stability.
- The author critiques the narratives surrounding these conflicts, emphasizing the need to acknowledge the suffering inflicted on populations as a result of these military engagements.
Political Economy and Systemic Inequalities
- The book also explores the relationship between economic systems, political power, and mass death. Smith argues that capitalism and militarism are intertwined, creating conditions that enable violence and exploitation.
- He discusses how systemic inequalities, driven by race and class, contribute to cycles of violence and oppression, making it crucial to address these root causes in any effort to achieve justice.

Implications and Challenges

Confronting Historical Narratives
- “Endless Holocausts” challenges conventional historical narratives that often minimize or omit discussions of mass death and systemic violence. Smith advocates for a more comprehensive understanding of U.S. history that includes these darker chapters, arguing that acknowledgment is a crucial first step towards healing and justice.
- By reframing history through the lens of mass death and oppression, the book encourages readers to critically evaluate the implications of this legacy for contemporary society.
Call for Justice and Accountability
- The book emphasizes the importance of accountability for past atrocities and the need for reparative justice for affected communities. Smith argues that recognizing historical injustices is essential for addressing current inequalities and preventing future violence.
- He advocates for activism and educational initiatives that highlight these issues, calling on individuals and communities to engage in the ongoing struggle for justice and equity.
Vision for a Just Future
- Ultimately, Smith’s work serves as a call to action, urging readers to confront the realities of mass death and systemic oppression in order to build a more just and equitable society. He emphasizes the role of collective memory, activism, and policy change in achieving this vision.
- The book underscores the need for a societal commitment to dismantling oppressive systems, fostering dialogue, and creating conditions that promote human rights and dignity for all.