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My Soul Is Rested: Movement Days in the Deep South Remembered
My Soul Is Rested (Raines book).jpg
First edition
Author Howell Raines
Country United States
Language English
Subject American Civil Rights Movement
Publisher G.P. Putnam's Sons
Publication date
1977
Media type Hardcover Print
Pages 472
ISBN 0-399-11853-5
OCLC 2644348
323.4/0975
LC Class E185.61 .R235 1977

My Soul Is Rested: Movement Days in the Deep South Remembered is an important book by journalist Howell Raines. It tells the story of the American Civil Rights Movement through the words of people who lived it. This book is a type of oral history, which means it's based on interviews. Raines talked to many people, both those who fought for change and those who were against it.

The book covers the struggle to end racial segregation in the American South. Segregation was a system that kept Black and white people separate, often treating Black people unfairly. The stories in the book begin with the 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott and go up to the 1968 assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr..

Understanding the Civil Rights Movement

The Civil Rights Movement was a huge effort by Black Americans and their allies to gain equal rights. They wanted to end segregation and discrimination. This movement used peaceful protests, marches, and boycotts to bring about change. It led to important laws that made segregation illegal.

Key Events and People

The book shares firsthand accounts of major events. These include the Montgomery Bus Boycott, where people refused to ride city buses to protest segregation. It also covers the brave actions of students who sat at segregated lunch counters. Many famous leaders and everyday heroes are featured.

Voices of Change

Howell Raines interviewed many people who were part of the movement. These included well-known figures like Rosa Parks, whose refusal to give up her bus seat sparked the Montgomery boycott. He also spoke with Martin Luther King Sr., the father of Martin Luther King, Jr., and civil rights leader John Lewis. Other important voices include Fannie Lou Hamer, a powerful voting rights activist, and Andrew Young, who worked closely with Martin Luther King, Jr. The book also includes stories from people who opposed the movement, giving a full picture of the time.

Why Oral History Matters

Oral history is a special way to learn about the past. It lets us hear stories directly from people who experienced events. This helps us understand what it felt like to live through those times. My Soul Is Rested captures the emotions, challenges, and triumphs of the Civil Rights Movement. It shows how ordinary people made extraordinary changes.

Legacy of the Book

Since it was published in 1977, My Soul Is Rested has been an important resource. It helps students and historians understand the Civil Rights Movement. The book reminds us of the courage of those who fought for justice. It also shows how much impact a group of determined people can have.

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