Leigh Fought's scholarship delves into the complexities of the American South, particularly focusing on the roles of women and the institution of slavery. Her work meticulously examines the intricate social and political dynamics that shaped American society. Through rigorous research, she uncovers the nuanced interplay between personal lives and broader historical currents.
Focusing on the life of Sally Hemings, this biography reveals her significant role as the mother of Thomas Jefferson's enslaved children. It offers an engaging narrative that is both informative and accessible, making it ideal for students studying Women and Gender Studies, Women's History, and African American Studies. The book highlights Hemings' extraordinary story within the context of her time, providing insights into her experiences and the complexities of her relationships.
Offers a full-length biography of Louisa S. McCord, one of the most intriguing intellectuals in antebellum America. The daughter of South Carolina planter and politician Langdon Cheves, McCord supported unregulated free trade, the perpetuation of slavery, and opposed the advancement of women's rights. This book examines the origins of her ideas.
A biographical study of famed abolitionist Frederick Douglass through his relationships with the women in his life that reveals the man from both a political/public and private perspective.
The narrative explores Mystic, Connecticut's evolution from a quiet farming village, shaped by the Pequot War, to a thriving shipbuilding hub during the War of 1812, driven by ambitious local entrepreneurs. The town's shipyards produced hundreds of vessels, marking a significant industrial boom. However, the decline of whaling and the Civil War led to a downturn in shipbuilding. Ultimately, Mystic reinvented itself as a charming tourist destination, rich in nautical history, captivating visitors with its maritime legacy.