Jim Crow in America: A Historical Exploration of Literature: Historical Explorations of Literature

Although the Jim Crow era denied African Americans equal rights under United States law, it was also one of the more prolific periods for black writers. This detailed study combines rigorous literary analysis with historical insights to reveal the backstory of such great American works as Richard Wright's "Black Boy," Ralph Ellison's "Invisible Man," Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird," and Lorraine Hansberry's "A Raisin in the Sun."

The work begins with a detailed introduction to the Jim Crow period in America spanning 1865 to 1964. A clear chronology of the era lends a framework for the major works examined in the book and provides an overview of the key events defining the years before, during, and after this time. Chapters furnish the historical background, author information, and context of individual literary works, while content delves into legal cases that proved central to the success of the Civil Rights Movement. Historical context essays, literary analysis, chronologies, documents, and suggestions for further research support the content and encourage discussion.