While claims that black Confederates existed during the Civil War era tend to evoke contentious debate, the writings of many African Americans may prove that blacks did, indeed, fight for the South.
Suggested Reading
This Wednesday, Aug. 30, from 12 to 1:30 p.m. at the Harvard Faculty Club Library (20 Quincy Street, Cambridge, Mass.), Harvard professor John Stauffer will discuss the phenomenon of black Confederates in the South, their impact during the Civil War and its aftermath, as well as the diverse ideas of freedom among blacks during the time period. Stauffer's "Black Confederates in History and Myth" is open to the public, and food and refreshments will be served.
Learn more at Harvard's W.E.B. Du Bois Institute website.
Previous recommendation: North African Group Tinariwen Has New Album.
Got ideas for The Root Recommends? Send them to [email protected].
Straight From 
Sign up for our free daily newsletter.