The Negro Farmer   By: Carl Kelsey (1870-1953)

Carl Kelsey’s The Negro Farmer gives readers a much-needed glimpse into the often-ignored world of African American farmers during the early 20th century. Through his comprehensive research and empathetic storytelling, Kelsey unfolds a tapestry of struggle, resilience, and determination.

The book begins by contextualizing the historical and social landscape in which these farmers found themselves. Kelsey delves into the aftermath of slavery, the Reconstruction era, and the Jim Crow era, providing a thorough understanding of the challenges faced by African Americans in rural areas. From land and labor exploitation to the pervasive discrimination and limited access to resources, the book takes an unflinching look at the barriers faced by black farmers.

One of the strengths of The Negro Farmer lies in Kelsey's vivid depiction of the lives and experiences of these farmers. Through personal anecdotes, interviews, and historical records, he paints a picture of individuals battling against countless odds to maintain their livelihood. From the backbreaking work in the fields to the constant struggle for fair wages and land ownership, readers gain an intimate understanding of the hardships endured by African American farmers.

Moreover, Kelsey skillfully intertwines these personal narratives with a broader examination of the agricultural systems and government policies that perpetuated inequality. He meticulously analyzes the various challenges faced by African American farmers, such as restricted access to credit, discriminatory lending practices, and biased government assistance programs. By shedding light on these systemic issues, Kelsey does a commendable job of broadening the reader's perspective to encompass the larger socio-political forces at play.

The author's passion for the subject matter is evident throughout the book, and his compassion for the struggles of the farmers shines through his writing. Though the topic may be weighty and somber, Kelsey maintains a balanced tone, preventing the narrative from becoming overly morose or didactic. By engaging readers with genuinely human stories, he fosters empathy and invites contemplation, ultimately igniting a desire for change and social justice.

On the downside, readers may find the book's pacing to be uneven at times. There are areas where Kelsey delves into extensive detail, providing a wealth of information, but the narrative occasionally becomes bogged down in these sections. Furthermore, at times, the author assumes a level of prior knowledge on the part of the reader, which may limit accessibility for those less familiar with the subject matter.

In conclusion, The Negro Farmer is a necessary and powerful addition to the canon of African American history. Carl Kelsey’s dedication to exploring the struggles and resilience of black farmers in the early 20th century is commendable. This book serves as a vital reminder of the often-overlooked contributions of African Americans to agriculture and the need for continued efforts to address historical injustices.

First Page:

In the last three hundred years there have been many questions of general interest before the American people. It is doubtful, however, if there is another problem, which is as warmly debated to day as ever and whose solution is yet so uncertain, as that of the Negro. In the second decade of the seventeenth century protests were being filed against black slavery, but the system was continued for nearly 250 years. The discussion grew more and more bitter, and to participation in it ignorance, then as now, was no bar... Continue reading book >>