Red River is a compelling story that makes one reflect on the dark and shameful side of American History. Although the novel is a mixture of fact and fiction there is a lot of truth regarding the Civil War and how African Americans such as the Tademys and Smith's were treated. This novel gives the reader a glimpse into what life was like for these people. As newly freed slaves they are still being treated unjustly showing the ignorance of white people in the South. There are perceptions about the lives of African Americans in the South such as they did not own any land, they did not educate themselves, etc. After reading this novel one learns that they did in fact own land and even opened their own colored Elementary School and High School
