Before the Mayflower: A History of the Negro in America, 1619-1962 by Lerone Bennett

In Before the Mayflower, Lerone Bennett provides a comprehensive overview of the African American experience in the United States. From the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in 1619 to the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, Bennett explores the struggles, achievements, and contributions of Black individuals throughout American history. His narrative sheds light on the resilience, cultural richness, and ongoing fight for equality.

Lerone Bennett (1928–2008) was a prominent historian, journalist, and advocate for civil rights. As the executive editor of Ebony magazine, he used his platform to challenge prevailing narratives and promote a deeper understanding of African American history.