Rebellion against slavery

Small case made  it to Supreme court

By Sue Baker

The Free Lance-Star

HISTORIAN Marcus Rediker’s riveting account of the Amistad slave ship rebellion tells the story of this critical, yet often overlooked event in America’s history, from a whole different perspective. His recount is told for the first time ever from the point of view of the slaves themselves.

Using his comprehensive research, Mr. Rediker presents an entirely new perspective on this moment in history. The documentation of personal histories of the rebellious slaves is compelling. This is a rigorous account of a slave-ship rebellion that altered American and African societies. This event started the great chain of resistance against slavery that opened a way for millions to follow in future generations.

By focusing on the Africans who revolted, rather than the American political and judicial response, the author emphasizes that these rebels were not passive victims of slavery. They actively shaped their fate.

For true history buffs, this is a “must read.”  I was not prepared for the emotional impact of this book.

Sue Baker is circulation services manager with The Free Lance–Star.

THE AMISTAD REBELLION: An Atlantic Odyssey of Slavery  and Freedom

By Marcus Rediker

(Viking, $27.95, 304 pp.)

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