Imperialism, Capitalism and White Supremacy

Dr. Gerald Horne: The Counter-Revolution of 1776: Slave Resistance and the Origins of the United States of America_eBook and Audiobook, with Trump 2.0: Gerald Horne on the Future of White Supremacy, Imperialism & the Rise of Third-Worldism (Jedaal English)

Frolinan Scholar Leave a comment

Dr. Gerald Horne is an American historian who currently holds the John J. and Rebecca Moores Chair of History and African American Studies at the University of Houston. 

Book Summary

Dr. Gerald Horne’s “The Counter-Revolution of 1776” presents a provocative reinterpretation of the American Revolution, arguing that it was not merely a struggle for independence from British rule but also a response to the increasing resistance of enslaved people. Horne posits that the revolution was fundamentally counter-revolutionary, aimed at preserving the institution of slavery and maintaining white supremacy. The book examines the social, political, and economic tensions that fueled both the revolution and the resistance of enslaved individuals, ultimately framing the American founding in a broader context of global struggles against colonialism and oppression.

The following outline captures the key themes and structure of Horne’s argument, highlighting the interconnections between slave resistance and the events leading to the formation of the United States.

Introduction

  • Explanation of the book’s thesis
  • Contextualization of the American Revolution within the framework of slavery

■ The Background of Slavery in Colonial America

  • Overview of the institution of slavery in the colonies
  • Economic importance of slavery to colonial economies
  • Social hierarchies and racial ideologies

■ Rising Tensions

  • Factors leading to increased resistance among enslaved people
  • The role of the British in promoting freedom for enslaved individuals
  • Key instances of slave resistance prior to the revolution

■ The Revolutionary Context

  • The impact of the American Revolution on colonial society
  • The ideological conflict between liberty and slavery
  • Examination of revolutionary leaders’ views on slavery

■ The Counter-Revolutionary Nature of the American Revolution

  • Analysis of how the revolution sought to protect slavery
  • The role of Southern colonies in shaping revolutionary goals
  • The influence of slave uprisings on revolutionary rhetoric

■ Global Implications

  • Connections between the American Revolution and global slave resistance
  • The impact of the revolution on other colonies and enslaved populations
  • The emergence of new ideologies and movements in response to slavery

■ The Legacy of the Counter-Revolution

  • Long-term effects of the American Revolution on slavery and race relations
  • The establishment of a national identity rooted in white supremacy
  • Reflections on the implications for understanding American history today

■ Conclusion

  • Summation of key arguments
  • The importance of recognizing the role of slavery in shaping American history
  • Call for re-examination of the narratives surrounding the founding of the United States

The Counter-Revolution of 1776_eBook

Illuminates how the preservation of slavery was a motivating factor for the Revolutionary War
The successful 1776 revolt against British rule in North America has been hailed almost universally as a great step forward for humanity. But the Africans then living in the colonies overwhelmingly sided with the British. In this trailblazing book, Gerald Horne shows that in the prelude to 1776, the abolition of slavery seemed all but inevitable in London, delighting Africans as much as it outraged slaveholders, and sparking the colonial revolt.
Prior to 1776, anti-slavery sentiments were deepening throughout Britain and in the Caribbean, rebellious Africans were in revolt. For European colonists in America, the major threat to their security was a foreign invasion combined with an insurrection of the enslaved. It was a real and threatening possibility that London would impose abolition throughout the colonies―a possibility the founding fathers feared would bring slave rebellions to their shores. To forestall it, they went to war.
The so-called Revolutionary War, Horne writes, was in part a counter-revolution, a conservative movement that the founding fathers fought in order to preserve their right to enslave others. The Counter-Revolution of 1776 brings us to a radical new understanding of the traditional heroic creation myth of the United States.

Pop the document out from the upper right to read / expand / download.

The Counter-Revolution of 1776_Audiobook

Trump 2.0: Gerald Horne on the Future of White Supremacy, Imperialism & the Rise of Third-Worldism (Jedaal English)

RBG Communiversity Dr. Gerald Horne Video Edu. Player (31)

Learn more in RBG Communiversity Knowledge Media eLibrary:

Che Guevara: A Revolutionary Life by Jon Lee Anderson (eBook) and The CIA Against Che, by Adys Cupull et al. (Audiobook), with The Truth About Che Guevara_A Bio-Documentary Film

Frolinan Scholar Leave a comment

Click the graphic for full size standalone.

Che Guevara: A Revolutionary Life by Jon Lee Anderson

Acclaimed around the world and a national best-seller, this is the definitive work on Che Guevara, the dashing rebel whose epic dream was to end poverty and injustice in Latin America and the developing world through armed revolution.

Jon Lee Anderson’s biography traces Che’s extraordinary life, from his comfortable Argentine upbringing to the battlefields of the Cuban revolution, from the halls of power in Castro’s government to his failed campaign in the Congo and assassination in the Bolivian jungle.

Anderson has had unprecedented access to the personal archives maintained by Guevara’s widow and carefully guarded Cuban government documents. He has conducted extensive interviews with Che’s comrades some of whom speak here for the first time and with the CIA men and Bolivian officers who hunted him down. Anderson broke the story of where Guevara’s body was buried, which led to the exhumation and state burial of the bones. Many of the details of Che’s life have long been cloaked in secrecy and intrigue. Meticulously researched and full of exclusive information, Che Guevara illuminates as never before this mythic figure who embodied the high-water mark of revolutionary communism as a force in history.

Pop the document out from the upper right to read / expand / download.

The CIA Against Cheby Adys Cupull etal._Audiobook

Cotent in ernest starts at 10:00 mins.

The Truth About Che Guevara_A Bio-Documentary Film

Learn more in RBG Communiversity Knowledge Media eLibrary:

NAT TURNER’S SLAVE REBELLION_eBook and Audiobook, Including the 1831 “Confessions” by Herbert Aptheker (1966, 2006), Feat. RBG|Reef- Nat Turner

RBG Street Scholar 1 Comment
From the Preface: “Herbert Aptheker wrote Nat Turner’s Rebellion as his Master’s Thesis at Columbia University, and submitted it in February 1937. The only work on Turner prior to Aptheker’s study, titled The Southampton Insurrection, was written by William S. Drewry and published in 1900. It treated the insurrection with fear and contempt and sexualized Turner’s motives”…

Book Summary

“Nat Turner’s Slave Rebellion” by Herbert Aptheker provides a detailed analysis of the insurrection led by Nat Turner in 1831 in Virginia, which is one of the most significant slave revolts in American history. Aptheker explores the social, political, and economic conditions that led to the rebellion, as well as the aftermath and its implications for slavery and race relations in the United States. The book combines historical documentation with an examination of the broader context of slavery, resistance, and the struggles for freedom.

The following   outline encapsulates the essential themes and structure of “Nat Turner’s Slave Rebellion” by Herbert Aptheker. The book serves as an important historical document that not only recounts the events of the rebellion but also situates it within the broader narrative of American slavery, resistance, and the quest for freedom. Aptheker’s work emphasizes the significance of Nat Turner’s leadership and the enduring impact of the rebellion on American society and history.

I. Introduction

  • A. Background of Nat Turner and the rebellion
  • B. Importance of the rebellion in American history
  • C. Purpose of the book

II. The Context of Slavery in America

  • A. Overview of the institution of slavery
  • B. Conditions faced by enslaved individuals in the South
  • C. The role of religion and community among enslaved people

III. Nat Turner: Life and Leadership

  • A. Early life and experiences of Nat Turner
    • Background and upbringing
    • Religious influence and visions
  • B. Turner’s role as a leader and preacher
    • Charismatic leadership
  • Development of revolutionary ideas

IV. The Rebellion of 1831

  • A. Planning and preparation for the uprising
    • Recruitment of followers
    • Strategic considerations
  • B. Key events of the rebellion
    • Timeline of the uprising
  • Major actions and confrontations
  • C. The response of the local authorities and the white community
    • Immediate military response
  • Panic and retaliation against enslaved people

V. Aftermath of the Rebellion

  • A. Consequences for the Turner and his followers
    • Capture and execution of Nat Turner
    • Repression of enslaved communities
  • B. Impact on slavery and plantation life
    • Increased restrictions on enslaved individuals
  • Heightened fear among slaveholders
  • C. Changes in public perception and discourse regarding slavery

VI. Historical Significance of the Rebellion

  • A. Legacy of Nat Turner’s rebellion in American history
    • Influence on abolitionist movements
    • Role in shaping public policy and attitudes toward slavery
  • B. Examination of rebellion as a form of resistance
    • Broader context of slave resistance in the U.S.
  • Nat Turner’s place in the history of civil rights

VII. Conclusion

  • A. Summary of key themes and findings
  • B. Reflection on the ongoing relevance of Nat Turner’s story
  • C. Call for continued study of slavery and resistance

“Nat Turner’s Slave Rebellion” by Herbert Aptheker is a pivotal work that delves deeply into one of the most significant slave uprisings in American history. Here’s a more detailed examination of the book’s key themes, context, and implications:

Detailed Exploration of Key Themes

1. Historical Context of Slavery

  • Institution of Slavery: Aptheker provides an in-depth analysis of the institution of slavery in the United States, especially in the Southern states where enslaved people were subjected to brutal conditions. He discusses the economic motivations behind slavery and how it shaped societal structures.
  • Living Conditions: The book highlights the dehumanizing conditions faced by enslaved individuals, including physical and psychological abuse, lack of freedom, and the denial of basic human rights. These factors contributed to a pervasive sense of oppression that fueled resistance.

2. Nat Turner: The Man and the Leader

  • Biography: Aptheker examines Nat Turner’s early life, including his upbringing in a religious environment that greatly influenced his worldview. Turner was known for his intelligence and strong religious convictions, which played a crucial role in his leadership.
  • Visionary Experiences: The author discusses Turner’s reported visions, which he interpreted as divine messages urging him to lead a rebellion against the institution of slavery. These experiences framed his motivation and justification for the uprising.

3. The Rebellion of 1831

  • Planning the Uprising: Aptheker outlines how Turner organized the rebellion, gathering a group of enslaved individuals who shared his desire for freedom. The planning phase included strategic considerations on timing and execution.
  • Execution of the Rebellion: The rebellion began on August 21, 1831, and lasted for several days. Turner and his followers attacked plantation owners and their families, resulting in the deaths of approximately 60 white individuals. The uprising was marked by its brutality, reflecting the deep-seated anger and desperation of the enslaved population.
  • Response from Authorities: The violent response from local militias and white citizens was swift and severe. The rebellion instigated widespread fear among slaveholders, leading to increased militarization and repression.

4. Aftermath and Repercussions

  • Turner’s Fate: Following the suppression of the rebellion, Turner was captured, tried, and executed. His death became a symbol of both martyrdom and fear for many in the enslaved community and beyond.
  • Impact on Slavery: The rebellion led to harsher laws and restrictions on enslaved people. Southern states enacted more stringent slave codes, limiting movement, education, and assembly among enslaved populations.
  • Psychological Impact: The rebellion instilled fear in the white population, leading to a more oppressive environment for enslaved individuals. The fear of further uprisings prompted increased surveillance and control.

5. Legacy of Nat Turner

  • Abolitionist Movement: Aptheker discusses how Turner’s rebellion influenced the abolitionist movement, galvanizing activists and intellectuals who highlighted the need for immediate action against slavery.
  • Cultural Memory: Nat Turner became a significant figure in African American history and folklore. His story is often invoked in discussions of resistance, agency, and the fight for freedom.
  • Ongoing Relevance: The themes of resistance and the quest for justice resonate throughout American history, and Turner’s story is frequently referenced in contemporary discussions of civil rights and social justice.

Conclusion

Herbert Aptheker’s “Nat Turner’s Slave Rebellion” is an essential contribution to the understanding of slavery, resistance, and the historical significance of Nat Turner. By combining thorough historical research with a compelling narrative, Aptheker provides readers with insights into the motivations behind the rebellion and its lasting impact on American society. The book encourages reflection on the broader themes of oppression, resistance, and the struggle for human rights, making it relevant not only to historical scholarship but also to contemporary discussions about race and justice.

Through this examination, Aptheker reinforces the importance of recognizing the agency of enslaved individuals and their capacity for resistance, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of American history.

Nat Turner’s Slave Rebellion_eBook

Pop the document out from the upper right to read / expand / download.

Nat Turner’s Slave Rebellion_Audiobook

RBG| Reef , Nat Turner

Learn more in RBG Communiversity Knowledge Media eLibrary:

Revolutionary Path (1973), by Kwame Nkrumah_eBook and Audiobook, with RBG Communiversity Africa Must Unite Video Player

Frolinan Scholar 1 Comment

Book Summary

“Revolutionary Path” by Kwame Nkrumah is a significant work detailing the author’s political philosophy, his vision for Africa, and the strategies he believed necessary for achieving liberation and development. Below is an outline and summary of the key themes and concepts of the book.

  • Introduction
    • Nkrumah’s motivations for writing the book
    • The context of African liberation movements
  • Historical Context
    • The colonial legacy in Africa
    • The role of imperialism in shaping African politics
    • Nkrumah’s experiences and observations
  • Philosophy of Revolution
    • Definition of revolution in the African context
    • The importance of self-determination
    • Nkrumah’s concept of “Consciencism”
      • Melding of African traditions with socialist principles
  • The Path to Independence
    • Strategies for achieving political liberation
    • The role of mass movements and grassroots organization
    • Importance of Pan-Africanism
  • Building a New Society
    • Economic strategies for post-colonial Africa
    • Emphasis on education and industrialization
    • The need for unity among African nations
  • Challenges and Obstacles
    • Internal and external threats to revolutionary movements
    • The role of neocolonialism
  • Conclusion
    • Nkrumah’s vision for the future of Africa
    • Call to action for African leaders and citizens

Summary in Bullet Points

  • Motivation: Nkrumah expresses the necessity of a revolutionary path for African nations emerging from colonialism.
  • Colonial Legacy: Discusses how colonial history has shaped current political landscapes and the need for a radical change.
  • Revolution Defined: Emphasizes that a true revolution must involve complete self-determination and liberation from imperialist control.
  • Consciencism: Introduces his philosophy that combines African cultural heritage with socialist ideals to forge a unique path for development.
  • Strategies for Independence: Advocates for mass mobilization, political organization, and coalition-building among various factions.
  • Pan-Africanism: Stresses the importance of unity among African nations to combat neocolonialism and promote collective progress.
  • Economic Development: Proposes that post-independence Africa must focus on education, industry, and self-sufficiency to thrive.
  • Neocolonialism: Warns against the subtler forms of colonialism, which threaten the sovereignty of African states even after formal independence.
  • Vision for the Future: Calls for a collective effort to build a prosperous and united Africa, free from external domination.

“Revolutionary Path” serves as both a historical account and a blueprint for future generations seeking to navigate the complexities of post-colonial Africa. Nkrumah’s insights continue to resonate in discussions of nationalism, unity, and development on the continent.

“Revolutionary Path” is a profound exploration of the political, social, and economic challenges facing Africa in the wake of colonial rule. Here are some deeper insights into the key themes and ideas presented in the book:

Key Themes and Ideas

  • Colonial Legacy:
    • Nkrumah discusses how the colonial experience has left deep scars on African societies, creating divisions and dependencies that hinder progress. He emphasizes that true independence cannot be achieved merely through political freedom but requires a complete restructuring of societal norms and economic systems.
  • Philosophy of Consciencism:
    • This concept is central to Nkrumah’s ideology. Consciencism combines African cultural values with socialist principles, advocating for a new identity rooted in both tradition and modernity. Nkrumah argues that this philosophy is essential for creating a cohesive national consciousness that can drive the revolutionary movement.
  • Mass Mobilization:
    • Nkrumah stresses the importance of involving the masses in the revolutionary struggle. He believes that true change comes from the grassroots level, and political movements must be inclusive and representative of the people’s aspirations. He highlights successful examples of mass movements in Africa and their role in achieving independence.
  • Pan-African Unity:
    • The author passionately argues for the unity of African nations as a strategy for combating imperialism and neocolonialism. He envisions a united Africa where countries collaborate economically and politically, sharing resources and knowledge to enhance collective development.
  • Economic Independence:
    • Nkrumah outlines a vision for economic self-sufficiency, emphasizing the need for African nations to develop their own industries and agricultural systems. He argues that reliance on foreign powers for economic support perpetuates dependency and undermines sovereignty.
  • Challenges of Neocolonialism:
    • He warns that the struggle for independence is not over with the end of colonial rule. Neocolonialism, characterized by foreign economic and political influence, continues to threaten African nations. Nkrumah calls for vigilance and proactive measures to resist these new forms of domination.
  • Education and Enlightenment:
    • Education is portrayed as a crucial tool for empowerment and development. Nkrumah believes that educating the populace will foster critical thinking, political awareness, and a sense of responsibility among citizens, enabling them to participate actively in nation-building.
  • Call to Action:
    • Throughout the book, Nkrumah urges African leaders and citizens to embrace the revolutionary path. He calls for action, solidarity, and commitment to the ideals of freedom, justice, and equality, stressing that the future of Africa depends on collective efforts.

Impact and Legacy

“Revolutionary Path” is more than just a political manifesto; it serves as a historical document reflecting Nkrumah’s vision for a liberated Africa. His ideas have influenced numerous movements and leaders across the continent, inspiring a generation to fight for self-determination and social justice.

Overall, Nkrumah’s work is a vital reminder of the complexities involved in achieving true independence and the ongoing struggles that many African nations face. His call for unity, self-reliance, and a commitment to revolutionary ideals continues to resonate today as Africa navigates its path in a globalized world.

Revolutionary Path_eBook

Pop the document out from the upper right to read / expand / download.

Revolutionary Path_Audiobook

Part 1

Part 2

Africa Must Unite Video Player

14 Video Playlist

Learn more in RBG Communiversity Knowledge Media eLibrary:

Black Liberation and Socialism, by Ahmed Shawki_eBook and Audiobook, with In Memoriam Ahmed Shawki (1960–2023)

Frolinan Scholar Leave a comment

Credits: Ahmed Shawki

“A sharp and insightful analysis of historic movements against racism in the United States—from the separatism of Marcus Garvey, to the militancy of Malcolm X and the Black Panther Party, to the eloquence of Martin Luther King Jr. and much more—with essential lessons for today’s struggles. In the 40 years since the civil rights movement, many gains have been made—but there is still far to go to win genuine change. Here is a badly needed primer on the history and future of the struggle against racism.”

Black Liberation and Socialism_eBook

Pop the documents out from the upper right to read / expand / download.

Black Liberation and Socialism_Audiobook

Audio start with Introduction and corresponds with page 6 of the above e-Reader

In Memoriam Ahmed Shawki (1960–2023)

Learn more in RBG Communiversity Knowledge Media eLibrary: