The Souls of Black Folk by W. E. B. Du Bois
This seminal work is a collection of essays that explores the history and condition of African Americans at the turn of the 20th century. It delves into the issues of race, class, and the socio-economic realities faced by black people post-emancipation. The author employs a combination of history, sociology, and personal narrative to present a powerful critique of American society, highlighting the struggle for civil rights, the importance of black spirituals, and the concept of "double consciousness" - the idea of viewing oneself through the lens of a society that sees you as inferior.
The 756th greatest book of all time
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This book is on the following lists:
- 31st on The Modern Library | 100 Best Nonfiction (The Modern Library)
- The College Board: 101 Great Books Recommended for College-Bound Readers (The College Board, an American not-for-profit organization)
- The 100 Best Nonfiction Books of All Time (The Guardian)
- The New York Public Library's Books of the Century (New York Public Library)
- A Century of Reading (Lithub)
- Books That Shaped America (Library of Congress)