Black Saga: The African American Experience presents the people, places, and events that have shaped the culture and identity of Blacks in the United States. From the African kingdoms that thrived in the days before Columbus to the struggles that continue today, Black Saga's panoramic scope offers a vivid, definitive picture of this rich and complex history.

More than a chronology of dates and events, Black Saga interweaves the histories of famous figures with those of unsung heroes. Here are the stories of escaped slaves Ellen and William Craft, California pioneer and entrepreneur Biddy Mason, inventor and businessman Jan Matzeliger, and civil rights activist Hannah Atkins.

With more than 230 illustrations - many of them rare - Black Saga also provides information on key issues and accomplishments, Black elected officials from Reconstruction to the present, Black-owned businesses and news papers, and Black musicians, athletes, and recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor.