Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart
The Economic Backbone of the Old Dominion
This book deals with a dark part of American history. For that reason, it isn’t an easy read.
The author traces the history of slavery in America. By 1671, there were 6,000 white indentured servants and 2,000 black slaves in Virginia.
I learned a lot in reading this book. For example, a Virginia law passed in 1806 gave newly freed slaves one year to leave the state or risk being automatically placed back into bondage for life.
The author included charts, photos, maps, and sketches to enhance readers’ understanding of information given.
The Underground Railroad is a topic in Byway to Danger, Book 3 in my “Spies of the Civil War” series.
Recommended for those desiring to learn more about the history of slavery.
Sandra Merville Hart 