Sharing What I Read + Learned
That one time WEB DuBois created an exhibit called “American Negro” and won a gold medal at the Paris Exhibition of 1900.
Currently reading “Unseen”. This book chronicles photos that reveal more stories of black history the media did not want to share from The New York Times.
The Year was 1900, a time in American History where African Americans were forced back into noncitizenship facing Jim Crow, Black Codes, Sundown Towns, and Eugenics
Dubois presents to the world, the economic and education progress in addition to the social reality of African Americans.
Over 50 million visitors witnessed the “American Negro” at the Paris Exhibition of 1900.
Here are a few of the pics he showcased to display the progress of African Americans.
P.S. You can access these photos at the Digital Archive of the Library of Congress #blackhistory #hbcu #americanhistory #bookrecommendations
As someone fascinated by Black history and its rich, yet often overlooked stories, I found WEB DuBois’s "American Negro" exhibit to be a profound example of how historical narratives can be reshaped through thoughtful and powerful visual storytelling. In 1900, at a time when African Americans faced overwhelming discrimination through Jim Crow laws, Black Codes, and more, DuBois curated an exhibit that showcased the resilience, education, and economic progress of Black communities. What struck me most was the diversity of images displayed—ranging from classroom scenes at universities like Fisk and Howard to agricultural and technical workshops. These photos not only highlight intellectual achievements but also reveal everyday life and the dynamic efforts toward empowerment within the community. For example, images of the Normal Class at Roger Williams University and the Bacteriology Lab at Howard University challenge the one-dimensional views often perpetuated by mainstream media of the time. Recently, I explored the Digital Archive of the Library of Congress as suggested, and viewing these visuals firsthand made the history come alive. It was inspiring to see photographs like the Butter Making class at the Agricultural and Mechanical College and the Choir and Organ class at Fisk University, which speak volumes about cultural and educational advancement. The exhibit’s impact was massive, with over 50 million visitors witnessing this presentation in Paris, signaling a global acknowledgment of Black Americans' contributions to society despite the oppressive conditions at home. For anyone interested in African American history, this exhibit and the accompanying photos provide valuable context to the struggles and triumphs of the era. They serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving such archives and the power of imagery to educate and transform perspectives. If you want to dive deeper, accessing the photos with hashtags like #blackhistory, #hbcu, and #americanhistory can enrich your understanding and appreciation of this pivotal period in American history.
