The American Crucible: Slavery, Emancipation and Human Rights
‘Robin Blackburn has already secured his position as Britain’s pre-eminenthistorian of slavery. This new volume confirms that position. It is an importantcontribution to our understanding of the shaping of the modern western world.’James Walvin,BBC History Magazine‘Blackburn describes emancipation in all its vexed, indeterminate grandeur,propelled by violent clashes, public debate, harrowing exposés, and the consolidationof new notions of freedom and equality.’ Greg Grandin, Guardian‘Blackburn writes authoritatively across centuries and continents.’Joseph P. Reidy, Journal of American History‘Poses a challenge for the political future as well as a bold reappraisal ofthe historical past.’ Stephen Howe, Independent‘A marvellous book – insightful and stimulating.’Stanley Engerman, University of Rochester‘A magisterial history of transatlantic slavery.’ Ian Thomson, TLSFrom the Trade Paperback edition.