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Black Manhattan: A Literary History of Harlem

Roger Turner

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Published in Black Manhattan James Weldon Johnson

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James Weldon Johnson's Black Manhattan is a seminal work in African American literature, providing a comprehensive overview of the Harlem Renaissance. Published in 1930, the book traces the history of Harlem from its beginnings as a Dutch settlement to its emergence as a thriving black metropolis.

Johnson writes with a keen eye for detail, capturing the sights, sounds, and smells of Harlem. He describes the vibrant street life, the bustling businesses, and the lively nightlife. He also profiles some of the most important figures of the Harlem Renaissance, including writers, artists, and musicians.

Black Manhattan

by James Weldon Johnson

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	926 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	274 pages

Black Manhattan is more than just a historical document; it is also a celebration of black culture. Johnson celebrates the creativity, resilience, and determination of the people of Harlem. He shows how Harlem has been a source of inspiration for generations of African Americans.

The book is divided into three parts. The first part, "The Background," provides a historical overview of Harlem. The second part, "The Renaissance," discusses the Harlem Renaissance in detail. The third part, "The Outlook," examines the future of Harlem.

In the first part, Johnson traces the history of Harlem from its beginnings as a Dutch settlement to its emergence as a thriving black metropolis. He describes the arrival of the first African Americans in Harlem in the early 19th century. He also discusses the development of Harlem's black community in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

In the second part, Johnson discusses the Harlem Renaissance in detail. He describes the literary, artistic, and musical achievements of the Harlem Renaissance. He also profiles some of the most important figures of the Harlem Renaissance, including writers, artists, and musicians.

In the third part, Johnson examines the future of Harlem. He discusses the challenges facing Harlem in the 1930s. He also expresses his hope for the future of Harlem.

Black Manhattan is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of Harlem or the Harlem Renaissance. It is a well-written and informative book that provides a comprehensive overview of this important period in African American history.

Here are some of the key themes that emerge in Black Manhattan:

* The importance of community. Johnson celebrates the strong sense of community that exists in Harlem. He shows how Harlem has been a source of support and inspiration for generations of African Americans. * The power of culture. Johnson celebrates the creativity, resilience, and determination of the people of Harlem. He shows how Harlem has been a source of inspiration for generations of African Americans. * The importance of hope. Johnson expresses his hope for the future of Harlem. He believes that Harlem has the potential to be a beacon of hope for all African Americans.

Black Manhattan is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Harlem or the Harlem Renaissance. It is a well-written and informative book that provides a comprehensive overview of this important period in African American history.

Black Manhattan

by James Weldon Johnson

4.9 out of 5