Breaking the Chains
African American Slave Resistance

“Breaking the Chains is still fresh, still relevant, and more dangerous than ever. … It shows us that the most oppressed and degraded people have the power, capacity, and moral vision to break their own chains and secure liberty, justice, and equality for all.”—from the Introduction by ROBIN D. G. KELLEY
Centering Black voices and the narratives of enslaved people, Breaking the Chains offers a thoroughly researched account of the ways people in bondage were themselves a driving force behind their own emancipation. With updated language that returns personhood and intent to those written about, this essential book by celebrated historian and author, William Loren Katz, is “a significant contribution to American history” (Kirkus Reviews).
“[Breaking the Chains] will force many readers to reexamine their assumptions about American history. … Young adults will be fascinated and better informed for having experienced this book.”—School Library Journal, starred review