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“The T.J. Sellers Course for Backwards Southern Whites”

Jennifer Ritterhouse (George Mason University)

When we hear about the end of Jim Crow, we hear mostly about kids attending schools or about major court cases. But what did the process of legal desegregation look like in everyday life and culture? Jennifer Ritterhouse shares the story of Sarah Patton “Pattie” Boyle and her transformation from segregationist to ardent desegregationist in mid-20th century Virginia.

10 mins

Roses in December

Jody Allen (William & Mary)

Jody Allen discusses how Black Virginians collectively built their own institutions during segregation.

9 mins

A Diamond in Danville

Ethel Haughton (Virginia State University)

Camilla Williams was an African American opera singer from Danville, Virginia. She shares her memories and music with us, and Ethel Haughton explains why Williams’ legacy is so important today.

9 mins

Free the Beaches

Andrew Kahrl (University of Virginia)

In his book Free the Beaches, Andrew Kahrl tells the story of activist Ned Coll and his campaign to open New England’s shoreline to African Americans, while Northern white families fought to preserve segregated resorts.

12 mins

Black History in Sport

David Wiggins (George Mason University)

Most of us have heard of Negro League Baseball, but there were many other all-Black sports leagues and teams across America in the 20th century. David Wiggins shares how African American athletes built their own place for sports in a segregated world.

12 mins

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