W. E. B. Du Bois
W. E. B. Du Bois was an American sociologist, historian, civil rights activist, Pan-Africanist, author, writer and editor. He was one of the most important African-American activists during the first half of the 20th century and co-founded the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in 1909.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. The Souls of Black Folk
Essays and Sketches
This seminal work is a collection of essays that explores the history and condition of African Americans at the turn of the 20th century. It delves into the issues of race, class, and the socio-economic realities faced by black people post-emancipation. The author employs a combination of history, sociology, and personal narrative to present a powerful critique of American society, highlighting the struggle for civil rights, the importance of black spirituals, and the concept of "double consciousness" - the idea of viewing oneself through the lens of a society that sees you as inferior.
The 343rd Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Black Reconstruction In America
An Essay Toward a History of the Part Which Black Folk Played in the Attempt to Reconstruct Democracy in America, 1860–1880
The book provides a comprehensive analysis of the Reconstruction era in the United States, focusing on the role and experiences of African Americans during this transformative period. It challenges prevailing historical narratives by highlighting the contributions of Black individuals and communities to the rebuilding of the South after the Civil War. The author argues that the failure of Reconstruction was not due to the incapacity of African Americans but rather to systemic racism and the deliberate sabotage by white supremacists. Through meticulous research and a critical lens, the book underscores the importance of this era in understanding the broader struggles for racial equality and justice in America.
The 3457th Greatest Book of All Time
