Slavery by Another Name, written by Douglas A. Blackmon, casts a light on a dark chapter in American history that is often overlooked. Published in 2008, the book uncovers the traumatic reality of forced labor and exploitation in the post-Civil War South, revealing a system almost completely reminiscent of slavery despite its legal abolition. This essay will explore the major and minor themes emphasized by Blackmon, such as the role of corporate interests, the psychological impact of oppression, and the intersections of gender and labor. Additionally, the organization and sources utilized by the author will be analyzed, alongside reflections on personal reactions to the text and its resonance with broader discussions of American history. By
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African American women often face unique forms of exploitation, including sexual violence and harassment by employers. This form of exploitation was worsened by beliefs that African American women were prone to sexual activity and that crimes against them should go unpunished. South Carolina governor Cole Blease claimed that “it was the nature of every African American woman to want sex at any opportunity” (Blackmon 389) and even went so far as to believe that there is “very serious doubt as to whether the crime of rape can be committed upon a negro” (Blackmon 389). While exploitation was not always sexual in nature, African American women suffered particularly brutal treatment, such as Hazel Slaughter who was attacked by dogs during an escape attempt from Fletch Turner. Within Slavery by Another Name, Blackmon portrays how African American women faced unique forms of exploitation in the South, including sexual violence and harassment by employers. This exploitation extended beyond labor camps, spreading through various aspects of their lives, and preserving systemic
African American women often face unique forms of exploitation, including sexual violence and harassment by employers. This form of exploitation was worsened by beliefs that African American women were prone to sexual activity and that crimes against them should go unpunished. South Carolina governor Cole Blease claimed that “it was the nature of every African American woman to want sex at any opportunity” (Blackmon 389) and even went so far as to believe that there is “very serious doubt as to whether the crime of rape can be committed upon a negro” (Blackmon 389). While exploitation was not always sexual in nature, African American women suffered particularly brutal treatment, such as Hazel Slaughter who was attacked by dogs during an escape attempt from Fletch Turner. Within Slavery by Another Name, Blackmon portrays how African American women faced unique forms of exploitation in the South, including sexual violence and harassment by employers. This exploitation extended beyond labor camps, spreading through various aspects of their lives, and preserving systemic