My Life and An Era: The Autobiography of Buck Colbert Franklin

Buck Colbert Franklin was a lawyer for those who lost lives and property during the Tulsa Riots of 1921 and a firm advocate for the poor Black and Indian families in Oklahoma who were shamelessly swindled out of property.Mr. Franklin's father bought his freedom from the Indian family who owned him as a slave. His mother was 3/4 Black and a quarter Indian. Although his father never learned to read he exemplified a life of dignity and respect for learning and became a respected rancher in southern Oklahoma. BC, his son, was eventually licensed to practice before the Supreme Court.BC Franklin and his wife endured hardships and danger. His life story will give you a new understanding of race relations and the difficulty Blacks faced and still face in overcoming systematic racism.

Very interesting and deep view of life about relationships between native Americans and African Americans during the period of expansion of U S territory into the west. A firsthand view of the pioneering spirit of cooperation before racism appeared and influenced the separation and division that was to come. Solidified the importance of family, faith, education and hard work, that is the basis for successful and fruitful lives.

Mr. Buck Colbert Franklin's story is a history book in itself. The information on Oklahoma and the five civilized tribes provided in this autobiography fills a void in our so-called approved history books. It is remarkable that he was an eye witness to the bombing of the African American community known as Black Wall Street. This account cements in my mind not only that the community existed, but fortifies the abilities of people of color and their capabilities before the ugly hand of racism intervened. It is a must read for American historians; for those researching their family tree and for those who want to document their family history. The family life of John Hope Franklin's father and grandfather would make a profound imagery for the cinema ... from my lips to God's ear.

Rich and informative!

A very informative account of the roles that Blacks and Native Americans played in the development of communities in the state of Oklahoma. Highly recommended!

Well written and thoroughly enjoyable book!

Mr Franklin's became an eyewitness to a number of important events in the Southwest. His detailed account of these events are astonishing.

I enjoyed learning about the history of a thriving African-American society.