Richmond's Unhealed History
In these powerful and eloquent pages, Ben Campbell reveals a complicated history that has been hidden in plain sight. Campbell, long a brave and wise leader in Richmond, allows us to see an important and emblematic American city with new eyes. Though writing here as a historian, Campbell writes for the future, for the healing that is yet to come. --Edward L. Ayers, President, University of RichmondBen Campbell s book is an insightful and factual treatment of Richmond's history during the first four centuries of the city s existence. It is a must read that captures the spirit of conflict, rebellion and change from several perspectives. History aficionados will appreciate this timely book as Virginia commemorates the sesquicentennial of the Civil War. --Senator Henry L. Marsh, IIIThe history of Richmond, Virginia, encapsulates the history of the nation itself. For that reason, Richmond's story, or parts of it, has been the subject of hundreds of books, articles, and scholarly papers. Yet, no one has examined this history through the lens of Christian ethics--at least, not until Episcopalian priest, the Reverend Benjamin Campbell. Writing as a local pastor, theologian, and modern-day prophet, he exposes the ugly truth of Richmond s past and how the injustices of earlier periods haunt metropolitan Richmond today. Yet, he argues, what better place than Richmond for those unaware of the truth, those scarred by it, and those who deny it to listen to each other and engage in an honest conversation about the past and the inequities that divide the city today. Could not Richmond, Campbell asks, model for the rest of the country how truth-telling can lead to redemption and reconciliation? This is a unique book that should be required reading for every Richmonder, better yet, every American. --John V. Moeser, Senior Fellow, Bonner Center for Civic Engagement, University of Richmond, Professor Emeritus of Urban Studies and Planning, Virginia Commonwealth University