From the publisher: Provides a comprehensive history of the more than 120 African Americans who have served in the United States Congress. Written for a general audience, this book contains a profile of each African-American Member, including notables such as Hiram Revels, Joseph Rainey, Oscar De Priest, Adam Clayton Powell, Shirley Chisholm, Gus Hawkins, and Barbara Jordan. Individual profiles are introduced by contextual essays that explain major events in congressional and U.S. history. Illustrated with many portraits, photographs, and charts.

Dedication sheet inserted. Shipping list no.: 2009-0004-S.

Introduction -- Former black members of Congress: "The Fifteenth Amendment in flesh and blood": The symbolic generation of black Americans in Congress, 1870-1887 -- "The Negroes' temporary farewell": Jim Crow and the exclusion of African Americans from Congress, 1887-1929 -- Keeping the faith: African Americans return to Congress, 1929-1970 -- Permanent interests: The expansion, organization, and rising influence of African Americans in Congress, 1971-2007.