Revolution, Romanticism, and the Afro-Creole Protest Tradition in Louisiana 1718-1868

Rating:
Summary: EXCELLENT!
Review: In this brilliant and thoroughly researched book, Caryn Cosse Bell manages to shed new light on the unique history of New Orleans' free people of color. She answers the questions about how the gens de couleur libres were able to develop into such a politically minded, intelligent, and powerful force throughout Louisiana's history. She dispells common myths often attached to the Creoles of Color, such as their racism and marginality in society. Starting with the founding of New Orleans in 1718, she shows the development of a strong, assertive class of people interested in full equality for all people, regardless of race or color. Their rights often came under fire under the rule of the American government, but they persevered. The battles over Reconstruction are the climax of this account, and she ends with the Creoles of Color's greatest victory--the Reconstruction Constitution of Louisiana in 1868. This book was wonderful, intelligent, and well researched. It should be read by anyone interested in Louisiana History, Black History, or American History.