How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America - Book reviews of How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America

'How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America' book reviews

Review for'How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America'

Clint Smith's "How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America" is an evocative and deeply engaging exploration of the ways in which the legacy of slavery is remembered—or misremembered—across various sites in the United States. Through a series of visits to monuments, historical landmarks, and museums, Smith weaves together a tapestry of narratives that challenge the sanitized versions of American history that too often dominate public discourse. His approach is both personal and scholarly, making this book a compelling read for anyone interested in understanding how the past continues to shape the present.

Smith's journey begins with a visit to Monticello, the plantation home of Thomas Jefferson. Here, he grapples with the contradictions of Jefferson's legacy as both a Founding Father who penned the words "all men are created equal" and a slave owner who profited from the labor of enslaved people. Smith's reflections are poignant and thought-provoking, as he navigates the complexities of honoring the contributions of historical figures while acknowledging their moral failings. This sets the tone for the rest of the book, which consistently challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths.

One of the book's strengths is its ability to blend historical analysis with personal narrative. Smith is a gifted storyteller, and his prose is both lyrical and incisive. He shares his own family history, including his ancestors' experiences with slavery and segregation, which adds a deeply personal dimension to the broader historical context. This blend of the personal and the historical makes the book not just an intellectual exercise, but an emotional journey as well.

Smith's visits to various sites across America, including Angola Prison in Louisiana, the Whitney Plantation, and the African Burial Ground in New York, offer a diverse array of perspectives on the legacy of slavery. Each location serves as a case study in how history is remembered and commemorated. For instance, at Angola Prison, Smith highlights the continuity of exploitation, drawing parallels between the plantation economy and the modern prison-industrial complex. These visits are meticulously researched and vividly described, making the reader feel as though they are walking alongside Smith.

Another notable aspect of the book is its attention to the voices of those who work at these historical sites. Smith interviews tour guides, historians, and local residents, whose insights add richness and depth to the narrative. These conversations reveal the ongoing struggles over how history is presented and understood, and they underscore the importance of inclusive storytelling. The inclusion of these voices ensures that the book is not just about the past, but also about the present and future of historical memory in America.

"How the Word Is Passed" is a timely and necessary contribution to the ongoing dialogue about race, memory, and history in the United States. Smith's writing is accessible yet profound, making complex historical issues understandable without oversimplifying them. The book challenges readers to question the narratives they have been taught and to consider the ways in which the past continues to influence the present. It is a call to action, urging us to reckon with history in a way that is honest and just.

In conclusion, Clint Smith's "How the Word Is Passed" is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the true impact of slavery on American society. It is a powerful reminder that history is not just a collection of facts, but a living, breathing entity that shapes our world in profound ways. Through his thoughtful and eloquent prose, Smith offers a path toward a more honest and inclusive understanding of the American past. This book is not just a reckoning with history; it is a roadmap for how we might move forward.

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