About the Author:
William Edward Burghardt "W. E. B." Du Bois (1868 - 1963) was an American sociologist, historian, civil-rights activist, Pan-Africanist, author, and editor. Born in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, Du Bois grew up in a relatively tolerant and integrated community. After completing graduate work at the University of Berlin and Harvard, where he was the first African American to earn a doctorate, he became a professor of history, sociology and economics at Atlanta University. Du Bois was one of the co-founders of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in 1909. He rose to national prominence as the leader of the Niagara Movement, a group of African-American activists who wanted equal rights for blacks. He was a proponent of Pan-Africanism and helped organize several Pan-African Congresses to fight for independence of African colonies from European powers. His collection of essays, The Souls of Black Folk (1903), was a seminal work in African-American literature. The United States' Civil Rights Act, embodying many of the reforms for which Du Bois had campaigned his entire life, was enacted a year after his death. About the Introducer:
Vann R. Newkirk II is a staff writer at The Atlantic, where he covers politics and policy. Prior to work at The Atlantic, Vann was at Daily Kos, where he focused on justice and health issues, specifically the intersection of policy, race, class, and culture. He has also contributed articles, essays, and photography to sites such as GQ, Gawker, Grantland, and Ebony. Vann is also the founder of Seven Scribes and a contributing editor. About the Illustrator:
Steve Prince is an artist, educator, and art evangelist. He is a native of New Orleans, and the rhythms of the city's art, music, and religion pulsate through his work. Steve's favorite medium is linoleum cut printmaking. Through his complex compositions and rich visual vocabulary, Steve creates powerful narrative images that express his unique vision founded in hope, faith, and creativity.
