Customer Reviews

Alabama's Civil Rights Trail: An Illustrated Guide to the Cradle of Freedom (Alabama The Forge of History)

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In the history of Civil Rights, Alabama can rightfully be considered "ground zero." From Tuskegee's Airmen in World War II (and the shameful Syphilis study which began in the 1930's), the "Scottsboro Boys" case and Rosa Parks and the Birmingham bus boycott to Bloody Sunday in Selma, the Selma to Montgomery march, Freedom Riders being beaten and water hoses and dogs being unleashed on marchers - Alabama's involvement in Civil Rights extends throughout the 20th century. Now these stories are gathered together for the state to guide the reader across the highs and lows of this aspect of American history. Other books ("On The Road to Freedom", "Weary Feet, Rested Souls") have very ably guided the traveler to sites of importance in the Civil Rights Movement across the south, this book benefits from the focus on the single state of Alabama. The result is an invaluable guide to this history in the state. Each area of the state that is explored is accompanied by a map of the area with the landmarks being talked about located on the map. Each story is given a quick synopsis, then a more detailed 4-5 page retelling, and then commentary and photos of places being written about. The extra space allows the author to focus on some of the people and events that are lesser known and often less explored in other guides. The writing is lively and engaging and show the author's passion for the these stories, and the first hand research done in preparation. The recollections of the Reverend John Cross of the bombing of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church that killed four little girls is 1963 brings a gut wrenching perspective to the event that is often missing in other narratives. The history is not all bombs, fire hoses and lynching. Gaillard also includes the triumphs of native sons like Jesse Owens and Joe Lewis. For those interested in walking the ground of Civil Rights history in Alabama, this book is an invaluable reference to help prepare and plan the trip, and an indispensable guide to hold when exploring historic ground.

This is an excellent book that tells the story of many of the historical sites in Alabama. The author's writing style is clear and informative, and readers should be inspired and enlightened while learning about the various events associated with the places mentioned in the book. Anyone interested in the Civil Rights struggles in Alabama should add this work to his/her collection.