Monday, March 24, 2008

Obama and Nat Turner

Chances are you don't know a lot about Nat Turner, in reality nobody does. In 1831 a (maybe) black preacher named Nat Turner led a killing spree of whites in Southhampton Co, VA. Apparently 55 white men, women, and children were killed by a group of, perhaps, 60 slaves in a rebellion. Other than the fact that it happened the historical record is a mess, so why does it matter?

Hart Williams over at His Vorpal Sword has an extensive analysis of why it matters and some of why we let it matter. If you've been unable to pick up on the racist overtone in the current election cycle, you haven't paid attention. The blatant legalized racism of the past may be nearly a half century behind us, the issue sure isn't. Hart generally makes closely reasoned arguments backed by numerous cites, and this is the case here, so set aside some time to read this. Take this recommendation with the consideration that I do very little blog plugging.

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