An African American history of the Civil War in Hampton Roads

cover image

Where to find it

Davis Library (5th floor)

Call Number
F232.H23 N49 2010
Status
Available

Stone Center Library

Call Number
F232.H23 N49 2010
Status
Available

Authors, etc.

Names:

Summary

Through a fascinating narrative and stunning vintage photographs, readers will discover the struggles and triumphs of the African Americans of Hampton Roads.

It was in Hampton Roads, Virginia, that hundreds gained their freedom. The teeming wharves were once a major station on the Underground Railroad, and during the Civil War, escaped slaves such as Shepard Mallory, Frank Baker and James Townsend fled to Fort Monroe to become contrabands under the protection of General Benjamin Butler. Upon arrival in the region, many took up arms for the Union, and the valiant deeds of some placed them among the first African American Medal of Honor recipients. Join Professor Cassandra L. Newby-Alexander as she charts the history of this remarkable African American community from the Civil War to Reconstruction.

Contents

  • Foreword p. 7
  • Introduction p. 9
  • 1 The Coming War: Race, Slavery and Abolitionism, 1850-1860 p. 13
  • 2 Transforming a Nation: Contrabands, Ironclads and Missionaries p. 23
  • 3 The Game-Changers: The Emancipation Proclamation and the USCT p. 49
  • 4 A Broken Beginning: 1865-1867 p. 74
  • 5 Reconstructing a World: 1867-1885 p. 87
  • Epilogue: Remembering the War: Emancipation and Memorial Day Celebrations p. 103
  • Notes p. 113
  • Index p. 123
  • About the Author p. 127

Other details