The Rise & Fall of Jim Crow: The African-American Struggle Against Discrimination, 1865-1954

by Richard Wormser

Discusses the laws and practices of discrimination against Blacks from Reconstruction until the Supreme Court found segregation illegal.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Race, American History, Cultural, African American

144 pages, Library Binding

First published September 1, 1999

About the author

There is more than one author by this name in the Goodreads data base.

See also: Richard Wormser

Reviews

[Ettore Pasquini · Rating 4 out of 5]

I first learned about slavery in middle school. The Romans. Being ancient history, I suppose we had time to reason on their atrocities, even though it's not that the Romans ever look bad in Italian history books. Similarly, or actually much better, Germans historicized nazism: just walk around in Berlin. Point is, the first step is always recognizing the problem, then act upon it.

This is not what happens or has ever happened in the US. My problem with American society is how difficult it is to look back. "That was yesterday, we should move on," "we need to look forward." I hear this all the time. But without stopping for a second to reflect, what future is there for us?

So I like that this book looks back pretty deeply. I love the individual stories of undying resistance, Ida B. Wells refusing to move to the colored car, biting the hand of the conductor; Barbara Johns organizing a student strike at her segregated black highschool in Virginia to protest against the inferior school facilities. The strike led to a lawsuit to the Supreme Court, overturning segregation. Unnamed thousands died before her. So many heroes were women, smart and incredibly strong. These stories of incessant fight should be told more. I had never even heard of them.

The atrocities committed on black people are still controversial to some, and not just a few dumb fucks. Maybe it’s still too recent. Maybe it’s a consequence of the delusion of power the US has lived in and the oppression they still exercise all over the world, interfering with other sovereign countries with 100% impunity. That’s the example US leaders have set: from moderate right-wingers like Obama to klansmen like Trump, indifferently. Even worse, it’s always been in the name of "freedom". It's so fucked up.

While black men truly fought in the name of freedom in 2 world wars -- they knew how it was to be deprived of it -- I learn that at home they were still treated like shit when they came back. This hit me hard. How despicable of a human being do you have to be to not even recognize a person who literally risked his/her life for the idea you (falsely) preach. Even Harry Truman, famous Civil Rights champion and war criminal who dropped 2 atomic bombs on civilians, used the n word in speeches.

Another thing I learned is that freedom has never truly existed here, to this day. The iniquitous Senate electoral process is deeply rooted in slavery and yet it's still here, controlling present and future generations. Corporations dictate the home and foreign policy out in the open. Out in the land, police is a heavily funded military force (altro che i pretoriani) who continue to maim and kill innocent people, mostly black people, with no consequences. Truly "it is what it is, because of what it was," like Black Thought said.

Speaking of which, some hip hop now sounds absolutely chilling, and beautiful in a deeply sad way. History just makes everything truer and richer.

One thing I still don't understand is how originally (soon after end of slavery) the Republican party was the more progressive one (??), but at some point in the 1970s (?) it became identified as the champion of white interest and gained political power in the South. This transformation is not explained, but to the author's point this book focuses on segregation, which ended in 1954.

A simple way to think about how deeply racist the US still is, is to ask yourself: if they really believed that slavery, lynchings (still popular not even 80 years ago) and racism were bad, why the hell have they not paid reparations?

And why does police still openly lynch people? Why prisoners are slaves, constitutionally? I wish everybody read this book or some other book about this history, these crimes still happening today.

Next year, in May/June 2021 it will be the centenary of the Tulsa race riot, a massacre sponsored by city officials. Instead of giving thanks in November, I wish we said sorry in May, but like we mean it, giving more than a token nod. But it won't happen.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the most important books I have ever read. I walked away with a greater understanding of something that I previously had little to no understanding of. This is a worth-while read for anyone.

[Dena · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an overwhelming book to read. I don't like to feel clueless and I was. I don't even know how to put the full impact of this book into words. And I'm a word person. This book was an awakening. I am sure it didn't chronicle the full history of this time in history but it gave me a much deeper understanding than I began with - which frankly, doesn't say much. With the history I was taught, many times I stopped reading this book, shocked by the parallel history that I knew. How could the civilized world be happening apart from this?? "This was going while...... (WWI, Roaring 20s, Great Depression, etc.)" ran through my mind over and over again, creating a very different picture of the progress of humanity and compassion, faith, and justice in the last 150 years. I highly recommend this book to both sides of the aisle. I'm finding it is now hard to respect any opinion on the subject of race, race relations, reconciliation, etc. that doesn't include a self motivated reeducation of the African American story in our country. We didn't get this education when I was taught American history. Period. To understand what happened, at least for people my age and older, it appears to require that we seek it out. This book (and presumably the PBS series that it was based on - available on YouTube and on my list to watch) is a good place to start. With each page I read, I felt like a little more light shined on my ignorance. Unfortunately, it revealed an even larger information and compassion gap than I imagined. That's the risk I took. I know things I can't unknow now and it has done something. Changed something in me that requires that I continue to seek more...

[Victoria Grusing · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many times, I shuddered to think what these people who are only different, if then, because of their beautiful colored skin have had to endure. We took away their freedom, their country, their families, their futures; their rights to religion, education, homes and often lives. I cried when Obama became President as I thought I knew what a wonderful point we had finally reached. After reading this book, I found it is even more truly amazing that he achieved what he and his family have done. I see now, also, why our country is being punished with the moron who is 45. There is so much ignorance in our country based on the fear that it may be discovered that people born with white skin are far from a superior race. People like the KKK certainly are not superior to any other living organisms of any type.

[Kristina Coop-a-Loop · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are interested in civil rights and this period of history, read this book. It's very informative, very specific and really made me ashamed to be a white person. It's amazing how inhumane people can be to their fellow humans. Very disturbing.

[Sarah Jensen]

Book Review: The Rise and Fall of Jim Crow by Richard Wormser

Richard Wormser’s The Rise and Fall of Jim Crow is a powerful historical account that delves into the era of racial segregation in the United States, providing a thorough analysis of the systems that upheld the Jim Crow laws and the movements that sought to dismantle them. This compelling narrative offers an insightful exploration of how institutionalized racism affected African Americans from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century.

Historical Context and Comprehensive Analysis

Wormser meticulously traces the origins and enforcement of Jim Crow laws, which emerged in the aftermath of Reconstruction. He explains how these laws institutionalized racial discrimination and disenfranchised African Americans, entrenching white supremacy in Southern society. By detailing the socio-political conditions that gave rise to this oppressive system, Wormser provides readers with a deeper understanding of the historical context that allowed such injustices to persist.

Impactful Personal Narratives

One of the strengths of Wormser’s writing is his ability to weave personal stories and testimonies into the broader historical narrative. He shares the experiences of individuals who lived under Jim Crow, highlighting their struggles and resilience. These personal accounts humanize the statistics and laws, making the impact of segregation more palpable and relatable. Readers will find themselves emotionally engaged as they learn about the courage of those who fought against the oppressive system.

Resistance and the Fight for Equality

Wormser also emphasizes the various forms of resistance that emerged during the Jim Crow era, from grassroots activism to organized movements. He details the role of civil rights leaders and organizations that challenged segregation and fought for equality, illustrating how these efforts laid the groundwork for the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. This focus on activism not only showcases the determination of those who opposed Jim Crow but also serves as a reminder of the importance of collective action in confronting injustice.

Relevance to Contemporary Issues

The book is particularly timely, as it encourages readers to reflect on the ongoing struggles against racism and inequality in modern society. Wormser draws connections between the historical injustices of the Jim Crow era and contemporary issues related to race, illustrating how the legacy of segregation continues to influence current social and political dynamics.

Conclusion: An Essential Read for Understanding Racial History

The Rise and Fall of Jim Crow is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of America’s racial history. Richard Wormser’s thorough research, combined with his engaging storytelling, makes this book both informative and impactful. By shedding light on the realities of segregation and the tenacity of those who fought against it, Wormser provides a vital perspective that resonates with today’s ongoing discussions about race and justice. Whether you are a student of history or simply interested in social issues, this book will deepen your understanding of the past and inspire critical reflection on the present.

[Zakiyyah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read a 1999 edition (total of 144 pages). The book provided a brief but sufficient overview of The Rise & Fall of Jim Crow from the end slavery in 1865 to the Brown vs Topeka County Board of Education ruling in 1954. Many notable historical figures and incidents were included in an organized timeline. Wormser included not only political, educational and social leaders but also performing artists.

The larger font, photos and simple language makes it an easy read for a variety of audiences, and I think it should be included in school curricula.

The last lines of the book state:
"Tragically, Jim Crow lingers, sometimes open and obvious, other times just below the surface of American life. In order to be rooted out, it must first be recognized. It is for that purpose that this book is written."

Many of the instances which he wrote about happened while many people today were alive or their parents and/or grandparents. He noted several lynchings, including Sam Hose's in GA, and I couldnt help think that someone is alive today whose parents were there, cheering for the inhumane killing of a black man. Yes, Jim Crow is alive and well.

[Tim Blackburn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book serves it's purpose well. A solid introduction to the shameful and brutal treatment of black Americans after the Civil War and basically through the Brown vs Topeka Board of Education decision of the Supreme Court in 1954. Every American who is not versed in the tragedy of the Jim Crow laws should read this book lest we forget.

[Garry Marlton · Rating 3 out of 5]

Slightly disappointing for my. I wanted to learn about the orgins of Jim Crow law. This was more about letting you know it still has an affect on society. and just highlighting some events that have happened recently.

[Robin Burton · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

[Dan Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

My eyes were opened to how bad it was for our fellow citizens. The history combined with personal accounts brought to life the era of Jim Crow laws.

[Jessie Hoekstra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this before I read Michelle Alexander and James Forman's books and I am really glad I did because it gave me a better understanding to what Jim Crow really is/was. Really important read.