Black Women in Texas History (Volume 108)

by Bruce A. Glasrud (Editor), Merline Pitre (Editor)

Though often consigned to the footnotes of history, African American women are a significant part of the rich, multiethnic heritage of Texas and the United States. Until now, though, their story has frequently been fragmented and underappreciated. Black Women in Texas History draws together a multi-author narrative of the experiences and impact of black American women from the time of slavery until the recent past. Each chapter, written by an expert on the era, provides a readable survey and overview of the lives and roles of black Texas women during that period. Each provides careful documentation, which, along with the thorough bibliography compiled by the volume editors, will provide a starting point for others wanting to build on this important topic. The authors address significant questions about population demographics, employment patterns, family and social dimensions, legal and political rights, and individual accomplishments. They look not only at how African American women have been shaped by the larger culture but also at how these women have, in turn, affected the culture and history of Texas. This work situates African American women within the context of their times and offers a due appreciation and analysis of their lives and accomplishments. Black Women in Texas History is an important addition to history and sociology curriculums as well as black studies and women’s studies programs. It will provide for interested students, scholars, and general readers a comprehensive survey of the crucial role these women played in shaping the history of the Lone Star State.

256 pages, Hardcover

First published March 3, 2008

Reviews

[Chan Fry · Rating 3 out of 5]

From the earliest Spanish exploration of Texas through the end of the 20th Century, this book details the story of Black women in Texas — their struggles for survival, freedom, civil rights, recognition, and continued progress. I found it informative and illuminating, though I was often distracted and put off by the writing style, which resembled neither popular histories I’ve read nor academic offerings. (In some chapters, it felt like a barely-passing book report.)

(I published a longer review on my website.)

[zoë · Rating 4 out of 5]

this was very informative! a great overview of texan black women’s lives and contributions. unfortunately, i do wish they would have all female contributors because the chapters by male historians suffered from sexist historical narratives. the intro stresses a womanist framework, but that wasn’t really entirely fleshed out, and like i said, the male-written chapters entirely detract from that