In the Shadow of Liberty The Hidden History of Slavery, Four Presidents, and Five Black Lives

by Davis, Kenneth C.

• ISBN13: 9781627793117
• ISBN10: 1627793119
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2016-09-20
• Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. (BYR)

Summary

Did you know that many of America’s Founding Fathers—who fought for liberty and justice for all—were slave owners?

Through the powerful stories of five enslaved people who were “owned” by four of our greatest presidents, this book helps set the record straight about the role slavery played in the founding of America. From Billy Lee, valet to George Washington, to Alfred Jackson, faithful servant of Andrew Jackson, these dramatic narratives explore our country’s great tragedy—that a nation “conceived in liberty” was also born in shackles.

These stories help us know the real people who were essential to the birth of this nation but traditionally have been left out of the history books. Their stories are true—and they should be heard.

This thoroughly-researched and documented book can be worked into multiple aspects of the common core curriculum.

Author Biography

Kenneth C. Davis is the New York Times-bestselling author and creator of the Don’t Know Much About® book series for adults and children. A frequent guest on national television and radio and a Ted-Ed Educator, he enjoys making classroom Skype® visits to discuss history. He lives in New York City. dontknowmuch.com