Franklin's “George Washington Williams And The Beginning Of Afro-American Historiography,”

[Name of the Writer]

[Name of Instructor]

African

[Date]

Summary

Franklin in his article, "George Washington Williams and the beginning of Afro-American Historiography" writes about the histography in the US primarily focusing Williams and his writing style. The article starts with criticizing the biases of the white historian while writing the history. Then, he talks about the Negro historians by taking the example of George Washington Williams that despite lack of training his historical research and adopting new methodologies were much better. The writer further narrates the struggles of Williams for knowledge and education. Although his English writing skills were not very good, he was the master of oral history. He wrote the history of Negros and Negro soldier regardless of all the hurdles. The white researchers did not much appreciate him because he was writing fairly. However, he opened the door for Negro historians to move forward in the field of history.

Part Two

1. As you give the titles of their books, name four early nineteenth century African Americans who sought to correct the omission of African Americans from the history of the United States by attempting to write the history of African American.

Ans. In order to correct the history of African-Americans, Negro authors wrote books and articles to give a reply to the White researchers. For instance, William Wells Brown wrote "The Black Man." Robert Benjamin Lewis wrote "Light and Truth" and "Textbook of the Origin and History of Colored People" is written by James W.C. Pennington. In addition, William C. Nell published his work on "Colored Patriots of the American Revolution."

2. Explain why George Washington Williams, despite the weaknesses of his writing, is even more critical to the study of early African American history, than the previously mentioned four writers.

Ans. George Washington Williams was very passionate about history writing, so struggle hard to learn more. Although, he had weak writing skills he was good at speaking. He was a very famous speaker and known as a leader of the Negro Community. At the same time, he wrote the truth. His writings were unbiased and based on facts.

3. Discuss why someone might say that George Washington Williams had a singular passion for learning about the history of the African American, as you trace his personal history of seeking education and employment.

Ans. For African Americans, there were limited opportunities in education and research. Regardless of all the hurdles, Williams worked hard for the sake of learning. He traveled from one state to other in search of a good education. Although he had weak writing skills in English, he did not quite the struggle and got into Howard University by writing to the General of the University.

Vocabulary Words: Absurdity, Oration, Pastoral duties

Works Cited

Franklin, John Hope. "George Washington Williams and the Beginnings of Afro-American Historiography." Critical Inquiry 4.4 (1978): 657-672.