Black Reconstruction in America: The Oxford W. E. B. Du Bois
Black Reconstruction in America is W. E. B. Du Bois’s history of Reconstruction from 1860 to 1880, centering the role of newly liberated Black Americans in the attempt to rebuild democracy. This Oxford University Press edition includes an introduction by David Levering Lewis and a series introduction by Henry Louis Gates, Jr.
At a glance
- Presents Reconstruction through the perspective of newly liberated African Americans.
- Covers the period from 1860 to 1880 and examines the effort to reconstruct democracy.
- This edition includes a series introduction by Henry Louis Gates, Jr., and an introduction by David Levering Lewis.
Reference price: $28.99
Price checked: Nov 14, 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- A substantial 672-page treatment for readers seeking an in-depth history rather than a brief overview.
- The edition provides both a series introduction and an introduction by David Levering Lewis.
Cons
- The 672-page length makes this a significant reading commitment.
Technical specifications
10 specifications| Author | W. E. B. Du Bois |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Oxford University Press |
| Publication date | March 1, 2014 |
| Edition | 1st |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 672 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0199385653 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0199385652 |
| Dimensions | 6.13 x 1.35 x 9.35 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight listed | 2.05 pounds |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers studying African American history and the Reconstruction era.
- Readers interested in Du Bois’s interpretation of Black political participation and democracy.
Less suited to
- Readers looking for a short introduction or a concise overview of Reconstruction.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
89% 89% - 4 stars
9% 9% - 3 stars
2% 2% - 2 stars
0% 0% - 1 star
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Customer feedback describes the book as readable and informative, and praises its historical research and poetic prose. Some readers say its account helps illuminate present-day divisions. That reception may appeal to readers willing to take on a 672-page historical argument, though the reported praise does not establish that every reader will find the prose or interpretation accessible.
Positive themes
- Customers describe the book as readable and informative.
- Customer feedback praises the historical research and poetic writing style.
Frequently asked questions
What period does Black Reconstruction in America cover?
The book focuses on Reconstruction from 1860 to 1880.
What perspective does the book take?
The edition description says Du Bois tells and interprets Reconstruction from the point of view of newly liberated African Americans.
What introductions are included in this edition?
It lists a series introduction by Henry Louis Gates, Jr., and an introduction by David Levering Lewis.
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