Cheryl Janifer LaRocheFree Black Communities and the Underground Railroad: The Geography of Resistance

Deals with the issues of escaping from slavery in the 1800's in the Midwest. Pretty specific stuff. Adds a lot to the usual Underground Railroad picture.

Purchased book because it contained info about my ancestors! Very informative. Gave insight to the history of that time! Also great African American depiction of everyday life and struggle for freedom and posterity!

Doctor LaRoche's groundbreaking study dispels many of the myths and legends surrounding the Underground Railroad of the 19th century by documenting the role that free black communities, geographic landscape features, and Black churches played in the emancipation of escapees from the South. The painstaking research, analysis, and organization of her unique material are overwhelmingly compelling.A must read for student, scholar, historian, and anyone interested in this shameful but inspirational period of American history.Michael Kirkland

Great book

Cheryl LaRoche does a masterful job of identifying little-known pockets of resistance on the Underground Railroad. I had no idea about some of the rich experiences she tells. I was especially interested in her discussion of the role of the Black Church as a consistent site of action. The research in this book not only enlightens but empowers. I'm anxious to share the book with my friends and family so they too can see history with new eyes.