Behind the Scenes; or, Thirty years a slave, and Four Years in the White House

About this book

In a pivotal era marked by the struggle for civil rights, "Behind the Scenes; or, Thirty Years a Slave, and Four Years in the White House" by Elizabeth Keckley offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a woman who transcended her circumstances. As a former slave, Keckley not only navigated the complexities of freedom but also gained unprecedented access to the corridors of power, serving as a seamstress for First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln. This compelling narrative explores themes of resilience and the pursuit of dignity, while highlighting the stark realities of slavery and the societal dynamics of the time. Ideal for students, civic activists, and historians, Keckley's account is a vital resource for understanding the intersection of race, gender, and politics in American history.