Stand and Prosper: Private Black Colleges and Their Students
The authors present a fascinating study of the past and present of 45 private black colleges. For a long period in American history, these institutions were the only educational option for blacks, and they continue to be viewed as sanctuaries for black students looking for supportive cultural and educational environments. The first part of the book explores the pre-Civil War period, when education of slaves was illegal; the creation of schools by abolitionist and former slaves after the Civil War; and the early period of segregation. The second part focuses on the more recent history of the colleges and the changing social and educational context in which they operate, as well as their role in developing black leaders and the growing black middle class. The book includes much factual data on the colleges but aptly conveys the important contributions of these schools as race relations have evolved and the challenges they face in the future, ranging from chronic underfunding to attacks on affirmative action. A valuable resource.Vanessa BushCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.