69 pages • 2 hours read
The Half Has Never Been Told: Slavery and the Making of American Capitalism
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Book Brief
The Half Has Never Been Told: Slavery and the Making of American Capitalism
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2013560
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 19th century
2013
Adult
16+ years
Super Short Summary
The Half Has Never Been Told: Slavery and the Making of American Capitalism by Edward E. Baptist challenges revisionist history by presenting slavery as essential to American wealth and power, detailing its brutal efficiency, political ramifications, and social impact from early America through the Civil War and beyond, using slave narratives and historical analysis to explore these themes. This book includes portrayals of violence, torture, and sexual violence against enslaved people.
Informative
Dark
Unnerving
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
7,682 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
Edward E. Baptist's The Half Has Never Been Told: Slavery and the Making of American Capitalism has been lauded for its groundbreaking analysis and comprehensive research, providing deep insights into the link between slavery and the growth of American capitalism. However, some critics argue that the narrative can be dense and occasionally one-sided. Overall, a powerful and enlightening read.
Who Should Read The Half Has Never Been Told: Slavery and the Making of American Capitalism?
Readers with a keen interest in American history, slavery, and economic development will be captivated by The Half Has Never Been Told: Slavery and the Making of American Capitalism by Edward E. Baptist. Similar to the audience of Eric Foner’s Reconstruction and Sven Beckert’s Empire of Cotton, this book appeals to those intrigued by the intersection of history and economics.
7,682 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Joe Kilpatrick
Joe Kilpatrick
An enslaved man who builds a new model of masculinity focused on care and community-building, adopting a trade-orphaned boy. His actions emphasize everyday acts of solidarity among enslaved individuals.
David Walker
David Walker
A free African American who runs a secondhand clothing store in Boston and writes a book urging enslaved people to rise up against slavery. His bold calls for resistance spread fear among white society and highlight his bravery.
Lucy Thurston
Lucy Thurston
A briefly appearing character whose story demonstrates the psychological trauma of slavery. Her experience as a "zombi" shows the healing power of music in rekindling her spirit.
560
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 19th century
2013
Adult
16+ years
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