The Negro and the Nation A History of American Slavery and Enfranchisement

"The Negro and the Nation" by George Spring Merriam is a historical exploration of American slavery, charting its origins and the subsequent journey toward freedom and citizenship for enslaved people. Opening with a story of an English traveler meeting General George Washington, the book gives a viewpoint on early American attitudes toward slavery. The book highlights the conflicting ideals of liberty and the practice of slavery in America, setting the stage for a more complete look at the social and political elements that kept slavery in operation. The narrative unfolds by exploring significant events and figures, painting a picture of the historical backdrop against which freedom was fought for and eventually achieved.