David Brion Davis
David Brion Davis (1927–2019) was an American historian and authority on slavery and abolition in the Western world. He won the Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction in 1967 for his book 'The Problem of Slavery in Western Culture'. He was also known for his work 'The Problem of Slavery in the Age of Revolution, 1770–1823'. His research significantly influenced the study of the history of slavery and abolition and contributed to the understanding of the moral complexities surrounding the issue.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
-
1. The Problem of Slavery in Western Culture
"The Problem of Slavery in Western Culture" is a comprehensive historical analysis of the cultural, moral, and intellectual dilemmas slavery posed to Western society. The book explores the paradox of a freedom-loving society that also allowed and justified human bondage, tracing the evolution of thought on slavery from ancient times to the late eighteenth century. It delves into the ways in which different societies have rationalized and confronted slavery, including religious, philosophical, and political perspectives, ultimately leading to the abolitionist movements.
-
2. The Problem of Slavery in the Age of Emancipation
"The Problem of Slavery in the Age of Emancipation" is a historical work that explores the complexities of slavery and the abolitionist movement during the Age of Emancipation. The book delves into the moral, political, and ideological challenges faced during this time, focusing on the struggles of enslaved Africans and African Americans. It also examines the role of colonization and the struggle to redefine "black" and "white" identities in the aftermath of slavery. The author uses a comparative approach, looking at the American, British, and French experiences of slavery and emancipation.
