The Presidents and Black America: A True History of Power, Policy, and White Supremacy

An acclaimed journalist and political analyst strips away the hero worship often found in history books to look at how each president—from Washington to Trump—impacted Black lives.

"An intellectual gem…about the vicious legacy of white supremacy and predatory capitalism.” —Cornel West, author of Race Matters

Throughout the history of the United States, numerous presidents have left their legacies as slaveholders, bigots, and inciters of racial violence. But what of the ones generally regarded as more sympathetic to the plight and interests of Black Americans, such as Lincoln, FDR, and Obama? What were their track records and priorities?  And what of all the presidents whose interactions with and impacts on the lives of Black America are hardly considered at all?

Over the course of 47 chapters—one for each administration—Kimberley examines the condition of Black America through the attitudes and actions of the highest elected official in the country. She illustrates the merits and especially the shortcomings of even those presidents considered more progressive than their contemporaries on race issues. What emerges is an informative and engaging guide that re-centers the perspectives of Black Americans, considering the particular impacts of political policies and practices on their lives and communities.

By spotlighting a largely overlooked aspect of American history, The Presidents and Black America will help readers discover new facts, identify historical patterns, and spark meaningful conversation and change.