by Michael Harriot, HarperAudio
Published
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Language
English
Publisher
HarperAudio
Kindle
$13.99
Hardcover
$20.24
Audiobook
$22.04
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From acclaimed columnist and political commentator Michael Harriot, a searingly smart and bitingly hilarious retelling of American history that corrects the record and showcases the perspectives and experiences of Black Americans. America’s backstory is a whitewashed mythology implanted in our collective memory. It is the story of the pilgrims on the Mayflower building a new nation.
It is George Washington’s cherry tree and Abraham Lincoln’s log cabin. It is the fantastic tale of slaves that spontaneously teleported themselves here with nothing but strong backs and negro spirituals. It is a sugarcoated legend based on an almost true story.
It should come as no surprise that the dominant narrative of American history is blighted with errors and oversights—after all, history books were written by white men with their perspectives at the forefront. It could even be said that the devaluation and erasure of the Black experience is as American as apple pie. In Black AF History, Michael Harriot presents a more accurate version of American history.
Combining unapologetically provocative storytelling with meticulous research based on primary sources as well as the work of pioneering Black historians, scholars, and journalists, Harriot removes the white sugarcoating from the American story, placing Black people squarely at the center. With incisive wit, Harriot speaks hilarious truth to oppressive power, subverting conventional historical narratives with little-known stories about the experiences of Black Americans. From the African Americans who arrived before 1619 to the unenslavable bandit who inspired America’s first police force, this long overdue corrective provides a revealing look into our past that is as urgent as it is necessary.
For too long, we have refused to acknowledge that American history is white history . Not this one. This history is Black AF.
Supplemental enhancement PDF accompanies the audiobook. PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.
Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America unapologetically delves into the deeper layers of American history, shining a spotlight on the narratives that have often been overshadowed, forgotten, or intentionally erased. This compelling journey reexamines the events and figures that have profoundly shaped the nation's fabric while amplifying the voices of those historically marginalized. The book urges readers to confront uncomfortable truths and embrace a more accurate, inclusive understanding of America's complex past.
Black AF History offers a comprehensive reexamination of historical events often excluded from mainstream narratives. The book highlights contributions and experiences of Black individuals revealing a fuller picture of America's past. Readers are encouraged to confront uncomfortable truths fostering a deeper understanding of societal structures.
Black AF History delves into America's past offering a fresh perspective that challenges the traditional storyline taught in schools. It uncovers the stories and contributions of Black individuals that have been overlooked yet are crucial to understanding the nation's development. The book takes readers on a riveting journey through history's less-traveled paths.
The author meticulously reconstructs events broadening the lens through which we view key moments like the Civil Rights Movement and the Reconstruction Era. The narrative dissects complexities and confronts inaccuracies in a bid to reshape collective memory and foster more nuanced discussions. This work is essential for those seeking a more complete portrayal of American history.
Through a blend of thorough research compelling storytelling and critical analysis Black AF History presents a raw yet enlightening view of America's past. It peels back layers to reveal how systemic structures were built inviting a more comprehensive conversation about race power and progress. Engage with the narratives that transform how one perceives historical legacies.
Black AF History stands out for its raw honesty and critical approach to retelling pivotal historical events It bridges gaps in mainstream narratives offering unsung perspectives that change the conversation about America's past Each chapter is a revelation bringing untold stories vividly to life. The book's richly detailed research and narrative techniques engage readers while challenging preconceived notions Its ability to connect past events to present-day issues provides a meaningful context that resonates widely making it relevant and impactful in contemporary discussions on race. What truly distinguishes this book is its compelling fusion of historical depth and accessibility Black AF History is not just educational but transformative urging readers to reflect deeply on the societal structures that have been shaped by these often ignored stories.
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Based on 1038 ratings
Arrived in short order and in great shape, thank you!
This is the true history of the US, I think it should be required reading for everyone in the US, the UK, the Caribbean and Africa. I love the way it is written, I wish I had had this book in high school then I would have enjoyed history .I love Michael Harriot's writing with humor, compassion and the TRUTH , backed up with research instead of America propaganda.
I love the way Harriott uses humor, wit, sarcasm and modern language to get across hard and vicious realities about the history of The United States. He makes history fun and easy to read, the opposite of dull school history tomes. “There’s a word for doing something over and over again and expecting different results: <i>American</i>.” Agricultural concentration camps is appropriate terminology for plantations of enslavers. I enjoyed the family stories though I bet some (white) people will think it’s too much. It’s interesting how many history books I’ve read lately that mix personal history in; I don’t know if it’s to break it up or humanize it but it works for me because I’m so curious about the authors.
I’ve read a good deal of the books that Mr. Harriot lists at the end of this one, and this is my favorite of them all. I say it’s the best book about Black history because it is by far the most engaging, the easiest to read, and the best paced. I run workshops on this type of content all the time and the stuff is HEAVY. It’s hard to get through an unfiltered look at America without taking a break (or seven). And a drink (or seven). This book feels like sitting around at the family reunion listening to one of the elders tell stories. He puts just enough humor and personalization into this to make it come alive - without losing the purpose OR killing your soul in the process. THANK YOU for writing this book! This is going to be my first recommendation to everyone from now on.
This book is important and a necessary read for young folks. It was a great read.
I enjoyed reading this book. I learned a lot of history that I didn’t know before. The author told the story in a way that was humorous but also very informative. I would highly recommend reading this book.
What an amazing history book. Harriet covers the history of the expansion of the new world up to 2023. He tells stories we never ever knew about and connects the narrative so we see all the intricacies. The language is so fresh, making it a fun read. Knowledge is power, and the information he imparts is mind blowing. I respect and appreciate his message and thank him for sharing it. Mad props my brother!
This is the best history book I've ever read and I'm a pretty committed nerd. The information contained in this book is immense and the absurdity of America's racial history itself easily confirms every potentially absurd point in the book. What I'm trying to convey, is that at any point, if you find yourself questioning the facts contained in this book, you are the reason we can never move beyond race and achieve the 'post racial society' folks like to talk about. The truth is so absurd that the lies seem safer to us all (white people). I wish this content was erroneous; I genuinely wish that were the case...But it's not. Aside from the information in this book, which is unparalleled, Harriot breaks it down into very accessible reading for any kind of reader. Then he tops it off by making it entertaining, positive, and even funny a lot of times. There's not much funny or upbeat about this history, but Harriot has a way of making this a fun read, even when the truth within is completely disheartening and disgusting. Best nonfiction book I've read this year, by far. Everybody in the United States needs to read this book and more books like it. As a white man, it's got to be ok to look back at our history with a genuine sense of shame, while refraining from succumbing to the guilt that might seem a natural destination. Collective guilt will only further entrench the disgusting race-obsessed culture that permeates this society. We must own this history and this present then burn it to the ground in plain sight so all can see and understand what has taken place. Only then can we do the hardwork of making amends and changing the future before us. If you truly believe this country is great, why would you cringe at the idea of making it better?