'Mark Newman provides an account of black nationalism that is readable and informative, while offering a critical discussion that is thought-provoking and eminently fair. This fast-paced overview is a first-rate introduction to a fascinating, controversial and important topic.' Adam Fairclough, Leiden University A concise introduction to and overview of black nationalism in American history This analytical introduction assesses contrasting definitions of black nationalism in America, providing an overview of its development and varied manifestations across two centuries. Its aim is to evaluate historiographical debates and synthesise a broad range of scholarship, much of it published since the beginning of the new millennium. This book offers a critical perspective that avoids advocacy or condemnation of black nationalism by examining major black nationalist thinkers, leaders and organisations as well as discussing some lesser-known groups and figures, the nature of black nationalism's appeal and the position of women in and their contributions to black nationalism. Key Features - Considers divergent definitions of black nationalism, providing an understanding of the nature of black nationalism - Outlines historiography with an up-to-date assessment of key debates and leading scholarship - Considers continuity, encouraging discussion of whether black nationalism was essentially unchanging or reflective of particular historical circumstances - Looks beyond leading figures to understand how, why and when black nationalism gained support Mark Newman is Reader in History at the University of Edinburgh and a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society. He is the author of the award-winning Getting Right with God: Southern Baptists and Desegregation, 1945-1995 (2001), Divine Agitators: The Delta Ministry and Civil Rights in Mississippi (2004) and The Civil Right Movement (2004), and co-editor of Poverty and Progress in the U.S. South Since 1920 (2006) Cover image: Elijah Muhammad (born Elijah Poole), leader of the Nation of Islam, addressing followers including Cassius Clay (Muhammad Ali), 1964 (c) akg-images / IAM Cover design: Stuart Dalziel [EUP logo] edinburghuniversitypress.com ISBN 978-1-4744-0541-6 [PPC] ISBN 978-1-4744-0542-3 [cover] Barcode