The American Missionary — Volume 35, No. 4, April, 1881

"The American Missionary — Volume 35, No. 4, April, 1881" by Various, is a snapshot of missionary work in the late 1800s United States, primarily concerning African American communities. The collection includes diverse articles, reports, and stats about the American Missionary Association’s goals, obstacles, and victories in enhancing education and helping formerly enslaved people. There is a major emphasis on universal education and moral development as necessary for full citizenship after the Civil War. Starting the volume highlights the damage to a dormitory at Tougaloo University stressing the critical shortage of funds for rebuilding. It spotlights various missionary activities throughout the South and the continued growth of the black population, emphasizing the importance of education in empowering this population. Furthermore, there are reports of missions among the Chinese and reflections on wider issues of social equality embedded in Christian faith, capturing the association’s dedication to both spiritual and practical aid.