46 pages • 1 hour read
To ‘Joy My Freedom: Southern Black Women’s Lives and Labors after the Civil War
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Book Brief
322
Book • Nonfiction
Atlanta, Georgia • Reconstruction
1997
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Published in 1997, Tera W. Hunter’s book To 'Joy My Freedom examines the lives and labor struggles of working-class African-American women in Atlanta, Georgia, from Emancipation to World War I. The book analyzes their resistance to racial repression, efforts to define their identities outside of labor, and the impact of their actions on labor relations, community-building, and cultural expression during this period. Some chapters address themes of violence and brutal oppression faced by African Americans.
Informative
Inspirational
Challenging
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Tera W. Hunter’s To ‘Joy My Freedom is lauded for its insightful analysis of post-Emancipation black women’s labor and resistance. The book's use of rich primary sources and vivid storytelling draws praise. However, some find the dense academic prose challenging. It adeptly bridges social history and gender studies, contributing significantly to African American history scholarship.
Who Should Read To 'Joy My Freedom?
Readers who appreciate To 'Joy My Freedom by Tera W. Hunter are typically interested in African American history, women's studies, and social justice. Fans of The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson and At the Dark End of the Street by Danielle L. McGuire will find this book enriching for its profound exploration of black working-class women's resilience post-Reconstruction.
Lugenia Burns Hope
Lugenia Burns Hope
An African-American woman instrumental in the founding of the Neighborhood Union, highlighting the significant role of affluent African-American women in the settlement house movement. Her inclusion underscores the contributions made by African-American women to social reform.
Julie Tillory
Julie Tillory
An ex-slave who migrated to Atlanta in search of freedom, her statement serves as the inspiration for the book's title. She symbolizes the aspiration and struggle for freedom among African Americans post-emancipation.
322
Book • Nonfiction
Atlanta, Georgia • Reconstruction
1997
Adult
18+ years
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