The Black New Yorkers : The Schomburg Illustrated Chronology

Rating:
Summary: A Great History Book
Review: The Black New Yorkers is the single-most complete history of African Americans in the United States that I have ever read! I was amazed to find the contributions of Africans extend so far back in New York's history. Indeed, I was not aware there were any blacks in New York prior to the 20th century Harlem Renaissance. There are literally hundreds of little known but important facts about black New Yorkers in this book. From the first black New Yorker, Jan Rodriguez, to the 2.3 million blacks who live in New York City today, this book has set a new standard for scholarship in American history.

Rating:
Summary: Not comprehensive enough
Review: Unless the authors are planning to do a book on Brooklyn New Yorkers, I am disappointed not to see text on my grandfather, George E. Wibecan, who was a noted activist and politician in Brooklyn from the turn of the century until his death in 1946. Materials and photographs are available at the Schomberg Library. I wanted to purchase this book for my family members. But when I realized that George Wibecan was omitted, I quickly changed my mind about its value to black families from outside Manhattan.