reading as the pathway to black freedom

“Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.”

Frederick Douglass

Numerous Black historical figures were avid book readers and used literature to expand their knowledge, inspire change, and contribute to their fields. Here are some notable Black historical figures who were known for their love of reading:

Frederick Douglass: A renowned abolitionist and writer, Douglass learned to read and write while enslaved and went on to become one of the most prominent intellectuals of his time. He often credited reading books as the key to his liberation.

W.E.B. Du Bois: A leading intellectual and civil rights activist, Du Bois co-founded the NAACP and was the author of influential books like "The Souls of Black Folk." His extensive reading and academic pursuits greatly informed his activism.

Maya Angelou: The celebrated poet and author of "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" was an avid reader from a young age. Books played a significant role in her intellectual and creative development.

Malcolm X: The civil rights activist and leader of the Nation of Islam transformed his life while serving time in prison by reading extensively. His autobiography, written with Alex Haley, is a testament to the power of books in his life.

James Baldwin: Baldwin, a prolific writer and essayist, was deeply influenced by the works of authors like Henry James and Fyodor Dostoevsky. His writings on race and identity have had a lasting impact on American literature.

Zora Neale Hurston: The author of "Their Eyes Were Watching God" was not only a writer but also a folklorist and anthropologist. Her academic pursuits and reading enriched her storytelling.

Langston Hughes: Hughes, a central figure in the Harlem Renaissance, was an avid reader of literature, especially poetry. His own poetry and writings reflected his love for books and the written word.

Toni Morrison: The Nobel laureate and author of "Beloved" was a dedicated reader and scholar. Her novels often explored complex themes rooted in literature, history, and African American culture.

These Black historical figures not only read books but also used literature as a means to challenge societal norms, promote social justice, and contribute significantly to the arts, humanities, and civil rights movements. Their passion for reading and learning served as a driving force in their remarkable achievements.

“Black Books, Black Minds” is a key foundation of my “Great Books, Great Minds” passion project. For me, it’s a labor of love fueled by the endless hours of work I put into researching and writing these feature articles. My aim is to ignite a new world of community, connection, and belonging through the rich trove of Black History books, thought leaders, and authors we unearth.

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