Revolutions and Resistance with Kellie Carter Jackson
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Deep Dive
What is the main focus of Kellie Carter Jackson's book 'We Refuse: A Forceful History of Black Resistance'?
The book explores the history of Black resistance in America, focusing on five key tools: revolution, protection, finance, flight, and joy. It challenges dichotomies like violence vs. nonviolence and emphasizes the diverse strategies Black people have used to fight white supremacy.
Why does Kellie Carter Jackson argue that the American Revolution was not truly revolutionary?
She argues that the American Revolution did not bring significant change for marginalized groups like Native Americans, enslaved Black people, free Black people, women, or poor white farmers. Instead, it replaced a distant European power with a local white elite, maintaining oppressive systems for nearly a century.
How does Kellie Carter Jackson describe the Haitian Revolution in comparison to the American Revolution?
The Haitian Revolution was a true revolution because enslaved people overthrew French colonial rule, abolished slavery, and established a Black-led nation. In contrast, the American Revolution did not dismantle systems of oppression or create equitable change for marginalized groups.
What role does joy play in Black resistance according to Kellie Carter Jackson?
Joy is a powerful tool in Black resistance, serving as a way to reclaim humanity and create spaces of respite and pleasure. It allows Black people to focus on their own lives and experiences rather than being consumed by the struggles against white supremacy.
What is the significance of the story of Carrie Johnson in Kellie Carter Jackson's book?
Carrie Johnson, a 17-year-old Black girl in 1919, defended her home during a racial riot in Washington, D.C., by shooting at a mob and killing a police officer. Her story highlights the use of force for protection in the face of state-sanctioned violence and the resilience of Black women in resisting oppression.
How does Kellie Carter Jackson challenge the dichotomy between violence and nonviolence in Black resistance?
She argues that violence and nonviolence are not the only options for resistance. Black people have used a variety of tools, including force, to achieve liberation. Force is not always violent, and nonviolence is not always the right approach. The focus should be on achieving justice and equity through diverse strategies.
What does Kellie Carter Jackson say about the abolitionist movement in the United States?
The abolitionist movement was a diverse coalition of people, including men, women, Black, white, free, and enslaved individuals. Despite their differences, they shared a common goal of ending slavery. Their work demonstrates that a small, dedicated group can create significant change through solidarity and shared purpose.
How does Kellie Carter Jackson view the concept of revolution in history?
She sees revolutions as starting points rather than endpoints. The real work of revolution begins after the initial upheaval, as people strive to sustain and build upon the changes achieved. Revolutions are ongoing processes that require continuous struggle and adaptation.
What does Kellie Carter Jackson say about the role of Black women in resistance movements?
Black women have been central to resistance movements, often leading households and organizing efforts despite being undervalued and underrepresented. Their contributions are essential to achieving liberation, and their stories deserve greater recognition and appreciation.
How does Kellie Carter Jackson address the fear of white people in her book?
She critiques the privileging of white fear in society, which often dismisses or minimizes the legitimate fears of Black people. White fear is often irrational and centered on maintaining dominance, while Black fear is rooted in real threats and systemic violence.
- The American Revolution is often portrayed as a singular event, but it was a starting point for ongoing struggles.
- The revolution did not bring about immediate change for many marginalized groups.
- The principles of the revolution, while good, were not applied equally to all.
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