Centering Black voices and the narratives of enslaved people, this young adult history offers a thoroughly
researched account with first-hand testimonies of how people in bondage were themselves a driving force
behind their own emancipation.
Features a new introduction by Robin D. G. Kelley, black white illustrations and photographs, and updates
throughout.
'A significant contribution to American history.'–Kirkus Reviews
“[Breaking the Chains] will force many readers to reexamine their assumptions about American history….Young
adults will be fascinated and better informed for having experienced this book.” –School Library Journal, starred
review
Generations of American history students have grown up believing that enslaved people accepted their lot and
became attached to their enslavers, that rebellion was rare, and that liberation from slavery happened thanks
to the enslavers.
Celebrated historian and children’s book author, William Loren Katz offers a thoroughly researched look at the
lives of enslaved people in the United States in Breaking the Chains. From their African abductions through
their brave resistance to and escape from the ships and harsh plantation life to their roles in the Civil War, those
given voice here show that enslaved people themselves were a driving force behind their emancipation.
This compelling look at history is an educational eye-opener for history buffs of all ages, and offers clarity on
one of the most turbulent periods of US history. This new paperback edition features a new introduction by
historian Robin D. G. Kelley.
“Katz masterfully steers the reader step by step through the astonishing forms of resistance, both active and
passive. . . . powerful and authentic.” –Publishers Weekly
The compelling account of how two heritages united in their struggle to gain freedom and equality in America.
The first paths to freedom taken by runaway slaves led to Native American villages. There, black men and women found acceptance and friendship among our country's original inhabitants. Though they seldom appear in textbooks and movies, the children of Native- and African-American marriages helped shape the early days of the fur trade, added a new dimension to frontier diplomacy, and made a daring contribution to the fight for American liberty.
Since its original publication, William Loren Katz's Black Indians has remained the definitive work on a long, arduous quest for freedom and equality. This new edition includes updated information about a neglected chapter in American history.
Generations of American history students grew up believing that slave rebellion was relatively rare, that slaves accepted their lot and became attached to their masters, and that they were ultimately liberated with little or no effort of their own. Liberally sprinkled with quotations from Civil War era blacks, both slave and free, Breaking the Chains gives readers a well-researched look at the lives of real slaves. From their African abductions, through their brave resistance to harsh plantation owners, to their roles in the Civil War, their own indomitable spirits shine through as the driving force behind their emancipation. Written by a teacher, world lecturer, and consultant to the Smithsonian Institution, this compelling look at history is an educational eye-opener for history buffs of all ages. Peter Francis James' vivid narration gives listeners the impression of being in the presence of first-hand witnesses to one of the most turbulent periods of U.S. history.
