African American Chronology. Volume 1: 1492-1972 - Hardcover

The years 1492-1972 are covered in volume one; the second volume covers the most recent 20 years. Volume 1 opens with a historical essay, beginning in Africa in the fourth century and covering the experiences of African Americans until the present day. The chronology begins with speculations on the appearance of African Americans in the New World as early as 1492, traveling with Columbus. Each date listed is accompanied by an explanation that ranges from a sentence to more than a page in length. In volume 2 the entries are longer, reflecting the heightened activity in all spheres of life of African Americans. Biographical information is included in entries wherever appropriate. Women members of the African American community are well represented in the chronology. Important events in all sectors of society--social, political, entertainment, cultural, educational, sports--are treated.

Black-and-white illustrations and maps are integrated throughout the text. A large typeface and plenty of white space make for easy reading. Each volume ends with a detailed cumulative index to both volumes, which includes topics, persons, and places featured in the chronology.

Most of the events listed in this book are also found in Hornsby's Chronology of African-American History, but here they are presented in a format and writing style for the middle-school audience. African American Chronology will be an asset to the reference collections of school library media centers and public libraries.