Pioneers in Protest

by Lerone Bennett Jr.

“Without being preachy or pedantic, Bennett warmly relates the conviction, the determination, the achievements-indeed-the heroism of 20 men and women who began the fight which ultimately led to the revolution taking place in America today.”-Philadelphia Bulletin.

267 pages, Hardcover

Published June 1, 1968

About the author

Lerone Bennett Jr. was an African-American scholar, author and social historian, known for his analysis of race relations in the United States.

Reviews

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

My soul is among lions: and I lie even
among them that are on fire, even the
sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword.
They have prepared a net for my steps,
my soul is bowed down: they have digged
a pit before me, into the midst whereof
they are fallen themselves...Awake up,
my glory...I will rouse the dawn...

--from the opening chapter


Though I think the title of this book is self-explanatory on some levels, it bears mention that this book taught me at a very young age that protest comes in many forms. A collection profiling historical figures from the Revolutionary War period through the 20th century, this book underscores the reality that every day, ordinary people accomplish the extraordinary. We all have a contribution to make.