“Four Hundred Souls” is a monumental work that traces the history of African America over four centuries, from the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in Jamestown in 1619 to the present day. This comprehensive community history brings together the voices of ninety Black writers, scholars, poets, and activists who contribute their unique perspectives and narratives to create a collective portrait of the African American experience. The book is divided into ten chronological sections, with each section covering a specific period and featuring essays that delve into the events, people, and themes that shaped African American history. The anthology begins with the painful era of slavery, exploring the dehumanization, resistance, and the quest for freedom that defined the lives of enslaved individuals. It then moves through Reconstruction, the rise of Jim Crow, the Civil Rights Movement, and beyond, delving into the significant moments, figures, and movements that marked each period. The book covers topics such as the Great Migration, Harlem Renaissance, Black Power, the impact of music and art, the fight for voting rights, and the ongoing struggle against systemic racism. Through vivid storytelling, meticulous research, and diverse perspectives, “Four Hundred Souls” provides a multi-dimensional understanding of African American history. It highlights not only the major figures and events but also the often overlooked stories of ordinary people who contributed to the fight for freedom, equality, and justice. The book examines the complexities of racial identity, the intersections of gender and race, the power of community organizing, and the ongoing struggle for racial justice in America. Kendi and Blain have curated an anthology that engages readers on an intellectual and emotional level, challenging preconceived notions, and inviting a deeper examination of American history. The essays are thought-provoking, thoughtfully crafted, and beautifully written, capturing the triumphs, challenges, and resilience of Black Americans throughout the centuries. This collective narrative paints a vivid picture of the struggles faced, the progress made, and the ongoing work that remains to be done to achieve true equality. “Four Hundred Souls” serves as a crucial contribution to the understanding of African American history, inviting readers to confront uncomfortable truths, challenge narratives of erasure, and actively participate in the ongoing fight against racism. It is a testament to the power of community, storytelling, and collective memory in shaping our understanding of the past and forging a more inclusive future.

Ibram X. Kendi is a renowned scholar and the author of several influential books on race and racism, including “Stamped from the Beginning” and “How to Be an Antiracist.” He is a professor of history and the founding director of the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research. Keisha N. Blain is an accomplished historian and writer, specializing in African American history and the history of black politics. She is an associate professor of history at the University of Pittsburgh and the president of the African American Intellectual History Society.