Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves Volume XVII Virginia Narratives

Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves Volume XVII Virginia Narratives presents a compelling collection of firsthand accounts from formerly enslaved individuals in Virginia compiled by the WPA’s Federal Writers'' Project. This volume is pivotal in understanding the complexities of slavery in a state central to the institution''s history in America. The narratives featured in this volume provide detailed insights into the everyday lives of enslaved people highlighting their labor family dynamics and the cultural practices that enriched their lives. Many narrators recount stories of resilience and defiance against the oppressive conditions they faced emphasizing the importance of community and spiritual life. The emotional toll of separation from loved ones is a recurring theme as many interviewees reflect on their hopes for freedom and the future.