Behind The Scenes by Elizabeth Keckley

Thirty Years a Slave, and Four Years in the White House

This compelling memoir offers a unique glimpse into the life of a former enslaved woman who rose to prominence as a talented dressmaker and confidante to Mary Todd Lincoln during the tumultuous years of the Civil War. Through her intimate narrative, she provides a rare insider's perspective on the personal and political dynamics within the Lincoln White House, while also reflecting on her own journey from bondage to freedom. Her story is a testament to resilience, skill, and the complex interplay of race, class, and politics in 19th-century America.

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