Rare 1926 1st Ed. Controversial: FLIGHT by Civil Rights Walter White, Race

Description: Flight by Walter WhiteScarce 1926 First Edition with the original first print hardcover design and maroon cloth boards.Name free, mark free. Exterior cloth cover has some wear Alfred A. Knopf, New York Ny, 1926Published amid great controversy in 1926, Flight focuses on the dilemma of Mimi Daquin, a light-complexioned African American woman who “passes”, for a time, as white. The complexities and state of race relations in the early 1900s unfortunately mirror much of which is taking place in our current society. From the Atlanta riot of 1906 to her shameful expulsion from black bourgeois society because of an out-of-wedlock pregnancy, to her working-class status in Philadelphia and Harlem, Mimi eventually decides to escape her miseries by passing for white in New York City. "Often mentioned as a major text in the literature of passing and listed as a groundbreaking novel of the Harlem Renaissance, Walter White’s Flight remains one of the most ‘important’ books telling the story of black migration, urbanization, and segregation. This compelling narrative with the unforgettable, feisty Mimi at its center. This story illuminates the inner workings of racism, classism, and sexism by following Mimi’s search for a space in which to be black and female in a modern world.” The author, Walter Francis White 1893 – 1955, was an American civil rights activist who led the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)He was of mixed race with African and European ancestry on both sides, White had features showing the latter. He emphasized in his autobiography, A Man Called White, "I am a Negro. My skin is white, my eyes are blue, my hair is blond. The traits of my race are nowhere visible upon me." White led investigations into lynchings in the South often putting his life in danger to get to the truth. White was a strong proponent and supporter of federal anti-lynching bills, which were unable to surmount the opposition by the Southern Democrats in the Senate. He was a fierce advocate for the African American issues and fought until his end for rights and justice. He wrote only a few books, which remain in demand and print today.This first edition of Flight is a great read and a sought after collector item (1st Edition sells for over $200)The book was ahead of its time.Taking offers. Books ship within 24-48 hours of payment unless payment falls on a weekend or holiday.Beyond Earth is a book dealer of antique, rare, unusual and collectible books.We specialize in early editions of literature, history, scientific books, atlases, art books, architecture, religion, rare antiquarian books, books of rich bindings, or any other particularity that could make them unique, unusual or collectible. We do not limit to one specific period. We collect and sell all centuries. We also have a branch that assists with estate sale books, art and other fine, collectible, rare and unusual items as well as finding specific books for private buyers. We participate with eBay's International Shipping Program.Tracking number is provided when items ship.We also offer local pick up on some items and will hold the item / items until you are able to arrange local pick up.

Price: 40 USD

Location: Newport News, Virginia

End Time: 2024-11-06T22:19:08.000Z

Shipping Cost: 3.55 USD