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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American Exceptionalism and American Innocence: A People’s History of Fake News―From the Revolutionary War to the War on Terror by Roberto Sirvent and Danny Haiphong_eBook and Audiobook

March 2, 2025March 5, 2025RBG Street Scholar 3 Comments

Book Summary

“American Exceptionalism and American Innocence: A People’s History of Fake News―From the Revolutionary War to the War on Terror” by Roberto Sirvent and Danny Haiphong critically examines the concept of American exceptionalism and how it has shaped the narratives surrounding U.S. history. The authors argue that the belief in America’s unique virtue has been used to justify various forms of injustice, including imperialism, racism, and war. By exploring the historical roots of “fake news”—defined as the manipulation of information to promote specific agendas—they illustrate how narratives have been constructed to maintain power and control. The book aims to uncover the often-overlooked realities of marginalized communities and to challenge dominant historical narratives, promoting a more inclusive understanding of American history.

The outline that follows encapsulates the essential themes and structure of “American Exceptionalism and American Innocence,” highlighting the authors’ critical perspective on American history and the implications of fake news in shaping public understanding.

I. Introduction

Definition of American exceptionalism
Overview of the concept of fake news
Purpose of the book: to challenge dominant narratives and reveal hidden histories

II. Historical Context of American Exceptionalism

Origins during the Revolutionary War
- The concept of a “city upon a hill”
Development through historical events
- Manifest Destiny and westward expansion
- The Civil War and Reconstruction

III. The Role of Fake News in American History

Definition and examples of fake news throughout U.S. history
Use of propaganda and misinformation to justify wars
- Spanish-American War
- Vietnam War

IV. American Innocence and Its Consequences

The myth of American innocence in relation to imperialism
Impact of this myth on marginalized communities
- Effects on Native Americans, African Americans, and other groups
Case studies illustrating the disconnect between American ideals and reality

V. The Modern Era: Fake News and the War on Terror

Emergence of fake news in the contemporary political landscape
Analysis of the framing of the War on Terror through American exceptionalism
Role of media in shaping public perception and justifying military interventions

VI. Challenging the Narrative: A People’s History Perspective

Importance of alternative narratives in understanding U.S. history
Voices of resistance and dissent throughout American history
- Civil rights movements
- Anti-war activism
Role of grassroots movements in challenging dominant narratives

VII. Conclusion

Summary of key arguments and insights
Call to action for critical engagement with history and media
Vision for a more inclusive understanding of American history that recognizes diverse experiences

“American Exceptionalism and American Innocence: A People’s History of Fake News―From the Revolutionary War to the War on Terror” by Roberto Sirvent and Danny Haiphong presents a compelling critique of the widespread belief in American exceptionalism and the narrative of American innocence. The authors argue that these concepts have been utilized to justify various injustices and have fostered a distorted understanding of U.S. history. Here’s a deeper exploration of the book’s themes and insights:

Deeper Insights

American Exceptionalism:
- Sirvent and Haiphong define American exceptionalism as the belief that the United States is fundamentally different from other nations, often perceived as a force for good in the world. This belief has its roots in the Revolutionary War, where early American leaders framed the nation’s mission as one of liberty and democracy.
- The authors argue that this concept has been manipulated to justify expansionist policies, imperialism, and military interventions under the guise of promoting freedom and democracy.
Historical Narratives and Fake News:
- The book delves into the historical use of propaganda and misinformation throughout American history. Sirvent and Haiphong highlight how fake news has been a persistent tool in shaping public perception and justifying government actions.
- Examples include the exaggerated narratives used to garner support for the Spanish-American War, where the media played a crucial role in rallying public sentiment through sensationalized stories about Spanish atrocities.
American Innocence:
- The authors critique the myth of American innocence, which suggests that the U.S. has acted altruistically on the world stage, often overlooking its role in perpetuating violence and injustice.
- They examine the impacts of this myth on marginalized communities, particularly Native Americans, African Americans, and others who have suffered under U.S. policies. The narrative of innocence obscures the historical realities of oppression and exploitation.
Case Studies:
- Sirvent and Haiphong provide case studies that illustrate the disconnect between the ideals of American exceptionalism and the lived experiences of marginalized groups. For example, they discuss the impact of U.S. foreign policy on countries in Latin America and the Middle East, where interventions have led to destabilization and suffering.
- The authors also explore domestic policies that have disproportionately affected communities of color, revealing how the narrative of innocence has been used to justify systemic racism and inequality.
The War on Terror:
- In the contemporary context, the authors analyze the War on Terror as a modern manifestation of American exceptionalism. After the events of September 11, 2001, the U.S. government framed its military actions as necessary for global security and the promotion of democracy.
- Sirvent and Haiphong argue that this framing has been reinforced by media narratives that often depict the U.S. as a benevolent force, ignoring the consequences of its military interventions.
Challenging Dominant Narratives:
- One of the key messages of the book is the importance of alternative narratives that highlight the voices of dissent and resistance throughout American history. The authors emphasize that understanding history from a people’s perspective is essential for recognizing the complexities of social justice movements.
- They discuss the contributions of civil rights activists, anti-war movements, and grassroots organizations that have challenged the dominant narratives and fought for justice and equality.
Call to Action:
- In their conclusion, Sirvent and Haiphong urge readers to critically engage with history and media. They advocate for a more inclusive understanding of American history that acknowledges the experiences of marginalized communities and the realities of oppression.
- The authors call for a reevaluation of the myths that have shaped public perception and encourage active participation in movements that seek to dismantle systemic injustices.

Conclusion

“American Exceptionalism and American Innocence” serves as a powerful critique of the narratives that underpin American identity and policy. Through a careful examination of history, the authors reveal how the belief in American exceptionalism has been wielded as a tool for justifying imperialism and systemic injustices. By challenging dominant narratives and advocating for a people’s history perspective, Sirvent and Haiphong provide readers with the tools to critically analyze the complexities of American history and engage in meaningful conversations about justice, equality, and truth. Their work is a vital contribution to the ongoing discourse on race, power, and the role of media in shaping public understanding.

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The Apocalypse of Settler Colonialism: The Roots of Slavery, White Supremacy, and Capitalism in 17th Century North America and the Caribbean, by Gerald Horne_eBook and Audiobook

February 26, 2025March 1, 2025RBG Street Scholar Leave a comment

Book Summary (abridged)

“The Apocalypse of Settler Colonialism: The Roots of Slavery, White Supremacy, and Capitalism in 17th Century North America and the Caribbean” by Gerald Horne provides a comprehensive analysis of how the foundations of modern systemic racism, colonial exploitation, and capitalist structures were established in the 17th century. Horne examines the intersections of slavery, white supremacy, and colonialism, arguing that these elements were not only products of their time but also integral to the development of societal norms and economic systems that persist today. Through a detailed historical account, Horne reveals the consequences of these dynamics for Africans and Indigenous peoples, emphasizing the significance of resistance and the ongoing legacy of colonialism.

Introduction
- Overview of the book’s goals and thematic focus
- Discussion of the historical context surrounding the emergence of settler colonialism
- Introduction to key concepts: slavery, white supremacy, and capitalism
Chapter 1: Beginning
- Examination of the initial stages of European colonization in North America and the Caribbean
- Analysis of the motivations behind European imperial expansion
- Discussion of early interactions between colonizers and Indigenous populations
Chapter 2: No Providence for Africans and the Indigenous
- Exploration of the systemic exclusion of Africans and Indigenous peoples from rights and protections
- Analysis of the ideological frameworks that justified their marginalization
- Discussion of the economic interests that underpinned these exclusionary practices
Chapter 3: The Rise of the Merchants and the Beheading of a King
- Examination of the emerging merchant class and its role in colonial economies
- Analysis of the political upheaval, including the beheading of King Charles I, and its implications for colonial governance
- Discussion of how these events influenced colonial attitudes toward slavery and Indigenous peoples
Chapter 4: Jamaica Seized from Spain: Slavery and the Slave Trade Expand
- Exploration of the British takeover of Jamaica and its transformation into a plantation economy
- Analysis of how the expansion of slavery and the slave trade fueled economic growth in the Caribbean
- Discussion of the social and cultural impacts of this transformation on enslaved Africans
Chapter 5: The Dutch Ousted from the Mainland: Slavery and the Slave Trade Expand
- Examination of the ousting of the Dutch from North America and the subsequent expansion of slavery
- Analysis of the economic motivations behind this transition and its impact on colonial society
- Discussion of the implications for Indigenous peoples and enslaved Africans
Chapter 6: More Enslaved Africans Arrive in the Caribbean—Along with More Revolts
- Exploration of the increasing influx of enslaved Africans into the Caribbean and the resulting demographic changes
- Analysis of the revolts and resistance movements that emerged in response to oppressive conditions
- Discussion of the significance of these revolts in shaping colonial policies and perceptions
Chapter 7: The Spirit of 1676: The Identity Politics of “Whiteness” and Prelude to Colonial Secession
- Examination of the events surrounding Bacon’s Rebellion and the rise of “whiteness” as a unifying identity among European settlers
- Analysis of how identity politics influenced colonial governance and social structures
- Discussion of the implications for Indigenous peoples and enslaved Africans in the context of colonial secession
Chapter 8: The “Glorious Revolution” of 1688: Not so Glorious for Africans and the Indigenous
- Exploration of the Glorious Revolution and its impact on colonial policies regarding slavery and Indigenous relations
- Analysis of the ways in which the revolution reinforced existing power structures and racial hierarchies
- Discussion of the consequences for African and Indigenous populations in the aftermath of these events
Chapter 9: Apocalypse Now
- Examination of the cumulative effects of settler colonialism on African and Indigenous peoples
- Analysis of the contemporary repercussions of historical injustices rooted in the colonial period
- Discussion of the ongoing struggles for justice and the need for a reckoning with the past

Significance of the Book

Gerald Horne’s “The Apocalypse of Settler Colonialism” is a critical text that sheds light on the deep historical roots of systemic racism, economic exploitation, and social hierarchies in North America and the Caribbean. By tracing these issues back to the 17th century, Horne provides a nuanced understanding of how colonial practices have shaped modern society. The book serves as an essential resource for scholars, activists, and anyone interested in unpacking the historical complexities of race, class, and colonialism, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing the legacies of these systems in contemporary struggles for equity and justice.

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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.