"Samantha Among the Colored Folks: 'My Ideas on the Race Problem'" by Marietta Holley is a story offering observations about race and society after the Civil War through the eyes of Samantha, a strong-minded woman. When Samantha's cousin, John Richard, who is passionate about helping formerly enslaved people, comes to visit, discussions begin about equality and what people should do to help. Her husband, Josiah, doubts that there is even a large issue regarding race, and his opinions clash with John Richard's strong beliefs. As Samantha listens to these talks, she starts to see things differently, realizing that the issue of race is more complicated than she initially thought. This sets the tone for a story exploring cultural differences, personal beliefs, and complicated relationships.

Samantha Among the Colored Folks: "My Ideas on the Race Problem"
By Marietta Holley
A determined woman's perspective shifts when a relative comes to visit, sparking debates about race, equality, and the moral duties of individuals in a divided nation.
Summary
About the AuthorMarietta Holley, was an American humorist who used satire to comment on U.S. society and politics. Holley enjoyed a prolific writing career and was a bestselling author in the late 19th century, though she was largely forgotten by the time of her death. Her writing was frequently compared to that of Mark Twain and Edgar Nye. Along with Frances Miriam Whitcher and Ann S. Stephens, Holley is regarded as one of America's most significant early female humorists. Her work appealed to all classes of society. Her readers were scattered over the entire world, and included men and women of every station and grade. Her books were widely read in Europe.
Marietta Holley, was an American humorist who used satire to comment on U.S. society and politics. Holley enjoyed a prolific writing career and was a bestselling author in the late 19th century, though she was largely forgotten by the time of her death. Her writing was frequently compared to that of Mark Twain and Edgar Nye. Along with Frances Miriam Whitcher and Ann S. Stephens, Holley is regarded as one of America's most significant early female humorists. Her work appealed to all classes of society. Her readers were scattered over the entire world, and included men and women of every station and grade. Her books were widely read in Europe.