Cotton and Race in the Making of America: The Human Costs of Economic Power

The Cotton Empire: A Groundbreaking Study of America's Most Central Social Issues is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complex historical roots of the African-American experience in America.

Through meticulous research and skillful storytelling, Gene Dattel uncovers the little-known yet crucial role that cotton played in shaping the nation's economic power, territorial expansion, and sectional conflict.

This book provides a fresh perspective on American history, revealing how the global cotton trade fueled the rise of New York City to commercial preeminence and fostered independent trade between Europe and the United States.

The author's in-depth analysis also sheds light on the pervasive racial animosity that emerged as a result of cotton production, highlighting the ways in which this industry contributed to America's bloodiest conflict at home.

With 23 black-and-white illustrations, The Cotton Empire is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to comprehend the complex and often painful history of race relations in America.