Behind the Scene (eBook)

Elizabeth Keckley (Autor)

eBook Download: EPUB

2022
150 Seiten
DigiCat (Verlag)
859-654739115-9 (EAN)

Infos

In "Behind the Scenes," Elizabeth Keckley offers a compelling insider's account of the tumultuous era of the American Civil War, intertwining her personal narrative as a formerly enslaved woman and her unique position as a dressmaker to Mary Todd Lincoln. Crafted with an evocative prose style, Keckley's memoir delves into the intricate social fabric of the White House, providing a rare glimpse into the lives of the Lincoln family and the political machinations surrounding the presidency. This work occupies a critical place in the literary canon, reflecting the voices of marginalized communities while shedding light on the profound intersections of race, class, and power during a pivotal moment in American history. Elizabeth Keckley's own life story informs her poignant observations throughout the memoir. Having developed her skills in dressmaking while enslaved, she earned her freedom through tenacity and industry. Her close relationship with Mary Todd Lincoln not only afforded her unparalleled access to the heart of American politics but also placed her in the unique position of bearing witness to both the personal and political struggles of those in power. "Behind the Scenes" is highly recommended for readers interested in American history, social justice, or women's studies. Keckley's authentic voice and incisive observations provide invaluable insights into the complexities of race and class while challenging traditional narratives. This work invites readers to engage deeply with an essential perspective often omitted from historical discourse.

Autor

Elizabeth Keckley (1818–1907) was a remarkable African American woman who gained prominence as an author, seamstress, and confidante to Mary Todd Lincoln, the First Lady of the United States. Born into slavery, Keckley purchased freedom for herself and her son through her own industrious efforts as a skilled dressmaker. As a free woman in Washington, D.C., her talent and hard work brought her to the attention of the city's elite, culminating in her appointment as Mrs. Lincoln's personal modiste. Keckley's unique vantage point within the White House during one of the most turbulent times in American history, the Civil War, provided her with remarkable insights into the personal and political lives of the Lincolns. Her memoir, 'Behind the Scenes: Or, Thirty Years a Slave and Four Years in the White House' (1868), is an invaluable historical document that brings to light the intimate experiences of her life as a slave, her career as a successful entrepreneur, and her friendship with the First Lady. Keckley's literary style combines a frank and straightforward narrative with a poignant and insightful reflection on the racial and social dynamics of the time. Her book serves not only as an important slave narrative but also as a unique perspective on the inner workings of the Lincoln White House. Through her written words, Keckley's legacy lives on, providing scholars and readers alike with a rare glimpse into the complex fabric of American history.

Produkt-Details

• Erscheint lt. Verlag: 13.11.2022
• Verlagsort: Prague
• Sprache: englisch
• Themenwelt: Literatur ► Biografien / Erfahrungsberichte
• Themenwelt: Sachbuch/Ratgeber ► Geschichte / Politik ► 20. Jahrhundert bis 1945
• Schlagworte: 19th Century America • 19th century women authors • African American autobiography • African American Memoir • American History • American slavery accounts • behind-the-scenes White House • civil war era • Civil War era biography • Cultural heritage literature • Dreams From My Father • Elizabeth Keckley memoir • Emancipation narrative • emotional storytelling • female author perspective • Former slave narrative • historical biography • historical non-fiction books • historical significance • I Know Why the Caged Birds Sing • Jackie Kennedy • Mary Todd Lincoln • Mary Todd Lincoln's dressmaker • Michelle Obama • personal resilience • political intrigue • Presidential household • race class dynamics • racial history narratives • Ralph Ellison • reconstruction era • Slave narrative influence • The Color Purple • The Help • The New Jim Crow • The Underground Railroad • The Warmth of Other Suns • White House insights • Women's history