If History Were Taught Honestly: Liberia’s American Roots

Introduction
Juneteenth is about freedom—but it’s also about truth. It’s about telling the real story, not just the neat, edited version that makes us comfortable. Freedom without truth is fragile. And one truth that rarely gets told is the surprising connection between African Americans and the African nation of Liberia. This isn’t just a story about geography—it’s a story about forced migration, survival, resilience, and the power dynamics of who gets to write history.

If history were taught in its truest form, perhaps the White House would not have been so surprised recently about how well some Africans from Liberia speak English. The reality is, there’s a very clear reason why many Liberians speak English fluently and why so many of them carry American-sounding names. And while we’re at it, have you ever taken a close look at the Liberian flag? The resemblance to the American flag is undeniable—stars, stripes, and all. None of this is a coincidence.

Liberia, an independent African nation today, began its life as an American colony. It wasn’t just any overseas project—it was a calculated plan funded by the American Colonization Society, whose purpose was to send free African Americans and formerly enslaved people to Africa. In short, it was forced colonization under the guise of “opportunity,” and it left a complicated legacy that still shapes Liberia today.

In the beginning, things were far from easy. The settlers sent to Liberia were African Americans who, after generations in the United States, no longer spoke African languages, knew African customs, or had an intimate understanding of African societies. Imagine trying to “repatriate” white Americans to their European ancestral homelands after centuries in America—they’d be strangers in a strange land. These new Liberians were essentially cultural foreigners to the African continent, and the adjustment was anything but smooth.

The U.S., however, provided backing and support—financially, politically, and in resources. Over time, with persistence and determination, the small colony carved out on the West African coast began to survive, and eventually, to flourish. The relationship between the African American settlers and the indigenous peoples of the region was tense at first, but necessity and shared goals gradually built a foundation for cooperation.

If history were taught accurately in classrooms, Americans wouldn’t be puzzled about why Liberians speak English so well. Nor would they be surprised that Liberia’s capital, Monrovia, is named after U.S. President James Monroe. But here’s the trouble—when the historians who write the textbooks and the clergy who teach biblical history alter the truth, the public gets a distorted version of reality. And when the powerful control the printing presses, they can make sure the stories told fit their preferred narrative, even if that means inserting people into places they never historically existed.

The American Colonization Society itself was a strange mix of motivations. Some of its members were slaveholders who feared that free African Americans would inspire those still in bondage to rebel. Others were slave traders who wanted the Black population in America restricted only to those they could profit from selling. And then there were the well-meaning abolitionists, who, despite opposing slavery, believed that the only place African Americans could truly live free was in Africa.

A surprising fact to many: Confederate General Robert E. Lee—yes, that Robert E. Lee—helped finance the trips of some enslaved people he owned who wanted to go to Liberia. Over time, despite their rocky start, the settlers and the local Africans began to cooperate for mutual benefit. This cooperation eventually transformed the fledgling colony into a sovereign nation.

By 1847, Liberia declared its independence. And in designing their national flag, they made a clear nod to the country that had both displaced and created them—the United States. The Liberian flag’s red and white stripes, blue field, and single white star stand as a reminder of its American colonial origins.

Today, Liberia is unique on the African continent. Its official language is English. Many of its surnames—Johnson, Roberts, Jackson—echo American roots. And its flag, history, and political institutions bear the imprint of a country an ocean away. This shared history is an uncomfortable but undeniable part of both American and African heritage.

Conclusion
Juneteenth reminds us that freedom was fought for, not gifted. But it also reminds us that the fight for truth is just as important. The story of Liberia is proof that history is often more connected, more complex, and more revealing than the versions we’re handed in school. By telling it in full—without edits, without omissions—we honor not just those who lived it, but those still seeking freedom today. Because when we know the truth, we can see the ties that bind us… even across oceans.

📜 Did You Know? Liberia’s American Connection

• Flag Twins: Liberia’s national flag has red and white stripes, a blue square in the corner, and a white star—closely modeled after the U.S. flag. The single star represents Liberia as Africa’s first independent republic.
• Presidential Namesake: Liberia’s capital city, Monrovia, is named after U.S. President James Monroe, a strong supporter of the American Colonization Society.
• American English: English is Liberia’s official language, a legacy of its founding by African Americans and free Blacks from the United States.
• Familiar Last Names: Many Liberians carry surnames like Johnson, Roberts, and Jackson—remnants of their American heritage.
• Shared History: Liberia declared independence in 1847, making it the oldest republic on the African continent.

🔍 Discover More Hidden History

The story of Liberia is just one of many connections between African American history and the wider world. Our Juneteenth Handbook Blog is dedicated to uncovering the stories that textbooks skip—stories that change how we see our past, our culture, and our future.

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Jesse Owens: A Hero Abroad, Snubbed at Home

 Jesse Owens: A Hero Abroad, Snubbed at Home

In 1936, Jesse Owens became a legend on the global stage. At the Berlin Olympics, he shattered records and Adolf Hitler’s myth of Aryan superiority by winning four gold medals. Owens, a Black American athlete, stunned the world not just with his speed, but with his calm, quiet defiance in the face of hatred. “It took a lot of courage for him to do what he did, in that place, at that time,” sportswriter Grantland Rice once said. Owens didn’t just run races; he ran through walls that were meant to hold him back.

But when Owens returned home to the United States, the welcome from his own government was chillingly cold. President Franklin D. Roosevelt never invited him to the White House. There were no handshakes, no national congratulations from the Oval Office. “Hitler didn’t snub me—it was our president who snubbed me,” Owens would later say. At a time when America still enforced segregation, not even Olympic greatness could erase the color of his skin in the eyes of its highest leaders.

The American public, however, had a more heartfelt reaction. In cities across the country, Owens was hailed as a hero, especially by Black communities who saw him as living proof of their strength and potential. A ticker-tape parade in New York City celebrated his victories, but even that joy came with a bitter aftertaste. When Owens arrived at a reception held in his honor at the Waldorf Astoria hotel, he was forced to use the service entrance and ride the freight elevator because of the hotel’s segregation policy. “I couldn’t ride the elevator with the whites,” he said, “I had to go up in the freight elevator.”

This contradiction—international fame and domestic discrimination- captures the painful complexity of Black life in early 20th-century America. Owens was good enough to represent the U.S. in Germany, but not good enough to be treated with dignity at home. “When I came back to my native country, after all the stories about Hitler,” he said, “I couldn’t ride in the front of the bus. I had to go to the back door. I couldn’t live where I wanted. I wasn’t invited to shake hands with Hitler, but I wasn’t invited to the White House to shake hands with the President, either.”

Economically, Owens found few opportunities in the wake of his Olympic success. He was not offered endorsements or financial support. Instead, he had to make ends meet however he could—racing horses at fairs, working gas station jobs, and giving playground talks. “People say that it was degrading for an Olympic champion to race against a horse,” he once noted. “But what was I supposed to do? I had four gold medals, but you can’t eat four gold medals.”

Despite these challenges, Owens continued to inspire. In time, the country slowly began to acknowledge the injustice he had endured. In 1976, President Gerald Ford awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, calling him “an American who challenged the spirit of Hitler and triumphed.” In 1990, long after Owens' death, President George H. W. Bush posthumously awarded him the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States.

Jesse Owens’ story serves as a powerful reminder that Black excellence has often been met with resistance at home, even as it wins admiration abroad. His legacy echoes the deeper meaning of Juneteenth: a celebration of freedom that acknowledges both progress and pain. Just like those who waited two and a half years to learn they had been freed, Owens’ wait for recognition was long and unjust. But his endurance, like theirs, became a lesson in strength.

Thank you for visiting the Juneteenth Handbook Blog. Please consider sharing this story as a reminder that the fight for dignity and equality did not end with emancipation; it continues today. Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/findhank, and help keep the conversation going. In the words of Jesse Owens:

“The battles that count aren't the ones for gold medals. The struggles within yourself—the invisible battles inside all of us—that’s where it’s at.”

Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom and Family

Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom and Family

When celebrating Juneteenth, it’s important to remember a few key truths that help us better understand the full story of African American history. First and foremost, while all the enslaved people in the United States were Black, not all Black people in the country were enslaved. A number of African Americans lived as free individuals—free from the legal bonds of slavery—even during times when slavery was still practiced in many states. Their presence challenges simplified narratives and invites us to look deeper into the varied experiences of Black life in America.

However, being legally free did not mean living with dignity or rights. Free Black people were still not considered full citizens, and they were largely excluded from political participation. As Frederick Douglass, himself a formerly enslaved man, famously said: “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?”—a piercing reminder that even national celebrations of liberty rang hollow for many. Free African Americans lived under a legal and social system that marginalized them at every turn.

Not all white people in America were slaveholders. From the very beginning of slavery in the U.S., there were individuals who opposed it—both Black and white. These individuals would form the backbone of the abolitionist movement and, eventually, the Underground Railroad. Harriet Tubman, herself an escaped slave, once said, “I freed a thousand slaves. I could have freed a thousand more if only they knew they were slaves.” Tubman’s courage reminds us of the incredible risks taken to resist oppression, and how liberation was often a collaborative effort between races.

Women and Men's Clothing
by African American Story Store

The Underground Railroad was more than a secret network—it was an act of organized moral defiance. Free Black communities and sympathetic white allies created paths to freedom under the threat of fines, imprisonment, and death. These acts of resistance weren’t just about freedom from slavery—they were about the belief in human dignity. As abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison declared, “Enslave the liberty of but one human being and the liberties of the world are put in peril.”

During the days of American slavery, it was sometimes possible—though extremely difficult—for a person to buy their own freedom or that of a family member. These efforts were often funded by years of labor, support from the Black community, or allies. It was a way of reclaiming agency in a system designed to deny it. The path to freedom was never just a legal process—it was a deeply emotional, often spiritual, journey grounded in love for family and hope for a better future.

One of the most devastating and long-lasting effects of slavery was its destruction of the Black family. It was rare for enslaved families to remain intact. Parents, children, and siblings were frequently sold apart. The trauma of these separations echoes through generations. As civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer put it, “I am sick and tired of being sick and tired.” That exhaustion came not just from injustice, but from centuries of broken homes and fractured legacies.

There is also a lesser-known truth: some free Black people owned slaves. But context matters. In many instances, these enslaved individuals were family members—spouses, children, or relatives—who had been purchased as a way to protect them and keep them close. These acts were often desperate measures to preserve family bonds in a system where legal ownership was the only means of protection. Even in such painful complexity, the value of family remained central.

That’s why Juneteenth is more than a celebration of emancipation—it is also a celebration of family. It is a moment to reflect on the sacrifices, the resilience, and the fierce love that helped African Americans endure and rise. In remembering the fight for freedom, we must also honor the struggle to keep families together and histories alive. Juneteenth reminds us that freedom is not only about release from chains—it’s also about the restoration of what was lost.

Continue the Journey—Share the Legacy

Juneteenth is not just history—it’s heritage. If this post helped deepen your understanding or stirred something in your heart, don’t let the conversation stop here.

👉 Share this post with your friends, family, or community—because the more we understand our past, the better we can shape our future.
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📚 Explore our Freedom Collection—books, stories, and resources that celebrate Black history from Africa to America and beyond.

Let’s honor our ancestors by staying informed, staying connected, and keeping the spirit of Juneteenth alive—every day of the year.

African American Story, Online Store.

Welcome to the African American Story Store, where history lives, breathes, and inspires. This is more than a store—it is a curated celebration of Black heritage, from ancient times to the present day. We invite you to explore the power, resilience, creativity, and brilliance of African American culture through products that tell a story and connect us to our roots.

The journey begins in Africa—the cradle of humanity. Long before borders were drawn or empires rose in the West, civilizations flourished along the Nile and beyond. From Nubia to Kush, from Axum to Timbuktu, these kingdoms gave the world astronomy, architecture, philosophy, and governance. Our store features Ancient African art that honors these early trailblazers, allowing you to bring home pieces inspired by the greatness of our ancestors. As history moved forward, so did the African people—some by force, others through resilience. The transatlantic slave trade uprooted millions, scattering African peoples across the Americas. But even in bondage, their spirit could not be broken. The African American Story Store exists to honor those ancestors who survived and fought for freedom with dignity and unshakable strength.

Our collections reflect the journey of African Americans through centuries of struggle and triumph. From plantation fields to picket lines, from the Harlem Renaissance to the Civil Rights Movement, Black Americans have shaped the fabric of this nation. Our store showcases this legacy with African American History merchandise—shirts, mugs, posters, and accessories that reflect both historic milestones and everyday Black excellence. We are proud to feature a wide range of Juneteenth-themed products that capture the significance of this sacred celebration. Juneteenth marks the end of slavery in the United States, and with it, a powerful message of liberation and remembrance. From flags and banners to decorative supplies and party favors, we help you commemorate this important day in style, spirit, and truth.

For families and communities gathering to celebrate, we offer Juneteenth party and game supplies designed to educate, entertain, and uplift. Whether you're hosting a backyard cookout, a school event, or a community festival, our products help make the experience fun, meaningful, and full of pride. Every celebration becomes a teachable moment—and a joyful one, too. Creativity is woven into the culture, and our art section reflects this beautifully. Explore African American art pieces that range from traditional to contemporary. Whether you're decorating your home or looking for a standout piece for your office, our art celebrates the diversity, struggle, and imagination of Black creators throughout history.

Many of our items can be customized or personalized, making them perfect gifts for birthdays, holidays, graduations, and other special occasions. Whether it’s a custom-printed shirt with an empowering quote or a personalized journal celebrating Black girl magic or Black boy joy, we help you create meaningful gifts that leave a lasting impression. The African American Story Store is a place for storytelling through merchandise. Each item carries a message—one of pride, remembrance, or hope. Whether you're wearing it, displaying it, or giving it away, you're helping to tell a story that needs to be heard and never forgotten.

Our mission is not just to sell, but to educate, inspire, and uplift. That's why we take care in curating products that are both beautiful and historically grounded. We believe knowledge is power, and every product you find here is rooted in cultural truth and pride. As you browse our store, you’ll find gifts and goods that reflect joy, strength, and legacy. From historical icons like Harriet Tubman and Malcolm X to cultural celebrations like Kwanzaa and Juneteenth, every product serves as a bridge between the past, present, and future.

Join us in celebrating the full arc of African American history—from the brilliance of ancient Africa to the ongoing contributions of Black Americans today. At the African American Story Store, we invite you to shop with purpose, gift with meaning, and remember that every story matters—especially ours.

The Black Messiah

 

In Revealing the True Face of Christ, author Hank Gray invites us on a powerful and deeply spiritual journey—one that challenges centuries of misrepresentation and restores the image of Christ to its rightful place. This isn’t the version revised by empires and echoed through stained-glass windows in distant cathedrals. This is the Black Messiah, as he was known by those who walked beside him—people of color, rooted in African and Middle Eastern soil, who saw in him a liberator, teacher, and reflection of themselves.

Gray’s work is grounded in truth and illuminated by historical, biblical, and cultural insights. With clarity and boldness, he uncovers how the original followers of Christ, melanated people who shaped the early faith, were erased from sacred narratives over time. The result has been a distorted image of the Messiah, used to uphold systems of dominance rather than liberation. This book sets out to correct that distortion and call readers back to a Christ who still dwells in the margins, still walks with the oppressed.

What makes this journey especially compelling is Gray’s use of visual storytelling. This isn’t just a collection of facts—it’s an experience. With quotes and culturally accurate descriptions that bring the true face of Christ to life, allowing readers to reconnect with a spiritual legacy that is both ancient and urgent. You’ll see the Messiah not through the lens of conquest, but through the eyes of his community—those who called him brother, friend, and Savior.

But Revealing the True Face of Christ is more than a historical correction—it’s a call to spiritual healing. It invites us to renew our faith by embracing our heritage, our identity, and our divine reflection. Gray reminds us that to reclaim the Black Messiah is to reclaim ourselves. This book is both a revelation and a restoration, planting seeds of pride, purpose, and peace in the hearts of those who read it.

And this is just the beginning. Revealing the True Face of Christ is part of the bold new Alkebulan Diaries book collection—a series dedicated to uncovering the hidden truths of Africa’s sacred past. These books aren’t just about ancient history—they’re about reclaiming the stories, the spirit, and the significance of a people whose contributions have been ignored or whitewashed for far too long. With a mix of powerful storytelling and grounded scholarship, the Alkebulan Diaries will change the way you see the world—and yourself.

Let’s start with Revealing the Real Face of Christ, the anchor of the series. In this revelatory book, Gray pulls back the curtain on centuries of religious distortion, reintroducing readers to a Christ who is Black, bold, and deeply connected to Africa. It’s not just about theology—it’s about truth, healing, and the power of representation. To see Christ in your image is to see the divine in yourself.

Next is Mankind, Made in Africa, which takes us even further back, to the very origins of humanity. With warmth and clarity, Gray walks readers through the scientific and spiritual significance of Africa as the cradle of civilization. This book isn’t just a celebration of first footsteps; it’s a reminder that greatness, innovation, and sacred tradition are deeply embedded in African soil and in the people who emerged from it.

Then there’s When Africa Ruled the World, a thrilling account of Africa’s glory days—when kingdoms flourished, wisdom reigned, and Black rulers shaped the world. From the Black Pharaohs of Egypt to the architectural genius of Imhotep, this book lifts the veil on an era of unmatched excellence. Gray tells these stories with pride and passion, making sure readers walk away knowing exactly how powerful and influential Africa truly was—and still is.

Whether you’re reconnecting with your roots, teaching your children about their heritage, or simply curious to learn what history books left out, the Alkebulan Diaries are a must-read. Each book is fun, accessible, and packed with truths that empower and uplift. It’s time to tell our stories, celebrate our legacy, and rewrite the narrative—one chapter at a time.

So join Hank Gray on this journey of rediscovery, restoration, and revelation. The Alkebulan Diaries aren’t just books. They’re a movement. Let’s reclaim the past and reshape the future—together.

Memorial Day Remembered

The Forgotten Origins of Memorial Day: Honoring the Legacy of African Americans in Charleston

Like so many chapters of American history, the contributions of African Americans to our nation’s story have often been sidelined, rewritten, or erased entirely. One such overlooked chapter involves the origins of Memorial Day. While today’s celebration is marked with parades, flags, and moments of silence, the true roots of Memorial Day begin with a powerful and heartfelt act of remembrance—led by formerly enslaved African Americans in Charleston, South Carolina.

In the aftermath of the Civil War, these newly freed individuals were not just rebuilding their own lives—they were actively shaping the legacy of a nation in recovery. They remembered those who fought and died for their freedom. Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, wasn’t born from a government proclamation. It was born from the hands, hearts, and prayers of a resilient community determined to honor sacrifice and dignity.

Let’s rewind to 1865. While the Civil War was still coming to an end, Confederate forces in Charleston had taken over an old horse racetrack and turned it into a prison camp. Union soldiers held there were subjected to horrific conditions—poor sanitation, starvation, and neglect. Over 250 men died there, their bodies tossed into a mass grave with no markers, no names, and no honor.

When the war finally ended and Confederate troops withdrew, they left behind a city scarred by war and a population of freed slaves determined to heal and rebuild. Learning of the mass grave at the racetrack, a group of African Americans set out to do something extraordinary. They exhumed every one of the fallen Union soldiers and reburied them properly. Over their new resting place, they erected a simple but profound sign: “Martyrs of the Racecourse.”

Then, on May 1, 1865, these American Africans held what would become the first Memorial Day celebration in U.S. history. Over 10,000 people—mostly freed slaves—gathered to honor the Union dead. Children led the way, carrying flowers and singing songs. Families processed around the old racetrack, transforming a place of death into sacred ground.

At the center of the ceremony were African American preachers who offered prayers and read scripture. A children’s choir sang hymns, and the crowd—rich with sorrow and hope—paid their respects to the fallen. It was a powerful, emotional act of remembrance, a deeply American moment grounded in freedom, justice, and gratitude.

This story, however, isn’t widely known. Over the years, the narrative of Memorial Day has shifted, with the origin often attributed to various towns and military traditions. Yet, history is clear: the first large-scale Memorial Day event was led by black Americans who understood the cost of freedom and chose to honor it.

So, as we gather each year to honor those who gave their lives in service to this country, let’s also remember the group of freedmen and women who made sure that the fallen were never forgotten. Their act of courage and compassion is not just a footnote in history—it’s the very foundation of Memorial Day itself.

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Thank you for reading. If this story moved you, share it with someone and help restore the full truth of America’s history—because remembering how we remember is just as important as the act itself.

From Enslaved Pilot to Civil War Hero

 

Robert Smalls: From Enslaved Pilot to Civil War Hero and Congressman

A Remarkable Story of Courage, Freedom, and Legacy

By [Your Name], Juneteenth Handbook Blog

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Born into Bondage, Destined for Greatness

Robert Smalls was born into slavery on April 5, 1839, in Beaufort, South Carolina. Despite living in a system designed to suppress and silence him, Smalls acquired valuable maritime skills while working on ships in Charleston Harbor. These skills would one day help him chart a course not just to freedom—but to history.

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A Daring Escape on the CSS Planter

On the night of May 12, 1862, Smalls made a bold and strategic move. While the white officers were ashore, he commandeered the Confederate transport ship CSS Planter, a military cargo vessel. With a crew of fellow enslaved men, and their families aboard, he navigated the heavily guarded Charleston Harbor under the cover of darkness.

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Delivering Freedom—and Intelligence—to the Union

Smalls sailed the Planter straight into the Union blockade, surrendering the ship to Union forces. Not only did this act free everyone aboard, but Smalls also delivered valuable artillery and military secrets. His daring and success made national headlines, turning him into an immediate Civil War hero and a powerful symbol of Black resistance and intelligence.

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Inspiring Change in the Union Army

Smalls' heroism caught the attention of President Abraham Lincoln and Union leaders. His example helped change minds in Washington, convincing key decision-makers to allow African American soldiers to enlist in the Union Army. Smalls didn’t just liberate a ship—he opened the door for thousands of Black men to fight for their freedom.

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Service and Leadership in War

After his historic escape, Smalls continued to serve the Union as the pilot of the Planter, which was refitted for use as a Union warship. He later became the first Black captain in U.S. naval service, a testament to his skill, bravery, and leadership during the war.

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Returning Home and Rebuilding the South

Following the Civil War, Smalls returned to Beaufort. He was appointed a Major General in the South Carolina Militia and quickly became a prominent political leader during Reconstruction. His work focused on rebuilding his community and ensuring newly freed African Americans had access to education, civil rights, and economic opportunity.

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A Political Trailblazer

As a member of the Republican Party, Smalls was elected to the South Carolina Legislature and later to the U.S. House of Representatives. Serving multiple terms in Congress, he fought tirelessly for racial equality, public education, and justice in a deeply divided post-war America.

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Legacy of Freedom and Determination

Robert Smalls’ life is a powerful reminder of what it means to fight for freedom, not only for oneself but for others. From enslaved beginnings to naval hero and respected congressman, his story stands as a beacon of hope, courage, and possibility—ideals at the heart of what we celebrate on Juneteenth.

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The Origins of Civilization

What If the Victors Got It Wrong? Rethinking the Origins of Civilization

They say history is written by the victors—but what happens when the victors get it wrong? Or worse, what if they deliberately left things out? As someone who developed a love for history outside the classroom, I’ve often asked myself why so much of what I find fascinating about history—especially Black history—was nowhere to be found in my grade school textbooks. Where were the rich, complex African empires? The brilliant inventors, philosophers, and kings of color? Why was I taught that history began in Europe, reached its peak in America, and everything else was just background noise?

This question bothered me for years. So, as any curious amateur history buff would do, I googled it. And what I found shook the foundation of everything I’d learned. Turns out, civilization didn’t begin in Greece or Rome—it began in Africa. Long before Europe raised its first stone temple or the Americas saw their first settlers, African civilizations were thriving. Nubia, Kemet (Ancient Egypt), Carthage, Axum, Mali—all born of African soil. These weren’t just villages in the sand, they were vast, powerful societies rich in culture, science, architecture, and trade.

So why weren’t they in the books I studied as a child? Because when new civilizations rise, they often erase what came before, especially if the previous civilizations don’t fit the narrative they’re trying to tell. If your story starts with your own greatness, it’s inconvenient to admit that someone else beat you to it—and did it better. Especially if that someone doesn’t look like you. What we often call “history” is a version of the past filtered through politics, power, and pride. It’s less about what happened and more about who gets to tell the story.

The Pharaoh Taharqa
by AfricanAmericanStroy

Let’s be real: African history predates European and American history. But it’s been minimized, misrepresented, or outright ignored—not just in schoolbooks, but in archaeological circles, scientific communities, and yes, even churches. For decades, archaeologists downplayed or obscured African contributions to civilization. Evidence was buried, reinterpreted, or simply left out of the discussion. Why? Because acknowledging Africa as the cradle of civilization challenges deeply held beliefs about race, power, and identity.

But the truth is starting to come out. And it’s not just about fairness—it’s about accuracy. There is only one race: the human race. We all originated from the same place—Africa—and we’ve spread across the globe, adapting to our environments and developing unique cultures. That doesn’t make some of us more civilized than others; it makes all of us part of the same human story. And to know who we truly are, we must know where we truly come from.

It’s no exaggeration to say that the Bible itself is, in many ways, Black history. The lands mentioned—Ethiopia, Egypt, Cush—are African. Many of the people, too, were of African descent. Yet in popular portrayals, the people of the Bible have been systematically whitewashed. The stories we’ve heard have been filtered through centuries of cultural bias and colonial ideology. Reclaiming the truth isn’t just about race—it’s about restoring dignity, identity, and connection to millions of people who’ve been taught they came from nothing.

Print Set
by AfricanAmericanStroy

We live in an age where information is at our fingertips. We can no longer pretend we don’t know. And now that we do know, it’s time to correct the record. Not to rewrite history in favor of someone else, but to include the voices that were silenced, the civilizations that were ignored, and the truths that were buried. Telling the whole story enriches us all.

So let the victors have their version of the past. We’ll write a new one—rooted in truth, informed by all peoples, and shared by the entire human family. Because history isn't just about who won. It’s about who we really are.

How to Self Emancipate from Mental Slavery

How to Self-Emancipate from Mental Slavery

The history of slavery in America reveals a brutal system that enslaved people both physically and mentally. Physically, there were chains, overseers, and harsh punishments used to maintain control and obedience. Mentally, there were constant messages and reinforcements meant to degrade the enslaved and convince them of their inferiority. These included restrictions on education, laws that forbade reading and writing, and the widespread promotion of the belief that others were more intelligent, more capable, and more worthy.

Though physical slavery in America ended with the Civil War, mental slavery remained—and in many ways, it was just as damaging. When Southern lawmakers returned to Washington after the war, they worked to implement systems that would keep the races apart and keep newly freed African Americans poor, uneducated, and dependent. This was not true in every single case, but for the majority, the promise of freedom was followed by a new kind of bondage—poverty, illiteracy, and systemic racism.

Still, there were exceptions. Some African Americans had never been enslaved and had the opportunity to pursue education and own property. Others were the children of slave masters, and in some cases, they were freed through a legal document called a deed of manumission. These advantages, however, were the exception, not the rule. The vast majority of enslaved people were denied any opportunity for advancement or learning.

For some, the only path to freedom was through self-emancipation—a decision that came with enormous risk. Escaping from slavery could lead to capture, punishment, or death. Yet for many of our ancestors, it was the only choice that honored their humanity and hope for a better life. It's important to remember that not all Africans who were enslaved came from backgrounds of poverty or ignorance. Many, especially among the Muslim population sent to South America, were educated and highly skilled. In fact, some of them were more advanced in construction, mathematics, and language than their enslavers.

These educated slaves became a threat to the system. Fear of rebellion grew after the Haitian Revolution, when enslaved people in Haiti successfully rose up and established the first Black republic in the Western Hemisphere. The success of Haiti showed that freedom and independence were possible and sent shockwaves through the slaveholding world.

Today, self-emancipation is no longer about escaping physical chains—it’s about freeing the mind. Mental slavery exists when people internalize feelings of inferiority, powerlessness, and hopelessness. These chains are harder to see, but just as damaging. The first step to breaking them is to seek out knowledge, learn history, and reshape the way we view ourselves and our place in the world.

As our ancestors in ancient Egypt once said: Know thyself. This idea is more than spiritual—it’s practical. To truly know oneself is to understand one's worth, your power, your heritage, and one's potential. Mental freedom begins with self-awareness and is cultivated through education, critical thinking, and cultural pride.

So, how do you self-emancipate from mental slavery? You question what you've been told. You learn the truth about your history. You build confidence through self-knowledge and reject any notion that you are less than. Mental freedom is not given—it’s earned through persistence, courage, and the determination to live fully and freely.

The Missing Noses and Lips of Black Egyptian Sculptures

 

The Missing Noses and Lips on Egyptian Statues: Weathering or Whitewashing?

A Mystery in Stone

Why are so many Egyptian statues—particularly those believed to depict Black rulers—missing their noses and lips? Some suggest it’s a result of natural weathering and time. Others argue it’s intentional damage meant to erase the African identity of Egypt’s early rulers. This debate strikes at the heart of how history is preserved—or rewritten.

The Erasure of Black Egyptian Identity

Statues from the 25th Dynasty and other periods when Egypt was ruled by Black African pharaohs often show specific damage to facial features like the nose and lips. These features, distinctly African, seem to have been purposefully targeted. The suggestion is disturbing: efforts may have been made by early colonizers, scholars, and conquerors to minimize the visible presence of African leadership in one of the world's greatest civilizations.

A Land of Many Rulers

Egypt has been under the rule of various empires throughout its history, including the Nubians, Romans, Arabs, and Ottomans. This mix of influences complicates our understanding of who might have been responsible for any vandalism. But it also makes Egypt’s cultural legacy incredibly rich—and worth protecting with honesty and integrity.

A Closer Look at the Damage

If weathering alone were to blame, why are some statues completely intact? Many ancient pieces show detailed preservation of features, while others, often associated with Black rulers, are damaged in eerily similar ways. The inconsistency raises the possibility that historical erasure was, in some cases, intentional.

Searching for Answers

Curious, I did what many of us do—I googled it. I came across an article by Robert Girardi, titled "The Sphinx’s Nose." In it, I found the claim that French soldiers under Napoleon used the Great Sphinx for cannon practice, blasting off its nose. This story is one of the most widely circulated explanations for the statue’s now-famous facial damage.

Another Theory Emerges

But Girardi also shares a different theory. This one points to an earlier period when Egypt was ruled by the Ottoman Mamluks. According to this version, the Sphinx’s nose was removed as part of a religious campaign against idolatry, common in certain Islamic periods, where statues were often defaced to discourage worship of images.

More Than Just Damage

Whether the nose was lost to French cannons or religious zeal, the deeper concern is the pattern of erasure of Africa’s own narrative, kings, queens, and builders. When a civilization’s contributions are deliberately obscured, generations are robbed of the truth and pride that come from knowing their heritage.

Asking the Right Questions

So, what really happened to Egypt’s statues? It depends on who you ask. But asking is important. Challenging accepted narratives, seeking evidence, and embracing the full complexity of African history allows us to reclaim a legacy far older and richer than slavery alone. We must keep digging—figuratively and literally—for the truth.

Black Egyptians

black Egyptians

Who was the most famous African Queen?

Nefertiti and the African Royal Legacy Hidden in History

The Beauty and Power of Queen Nefertiti

Nefertiti was the wife of the Egyptian Pharaoh Amenhotep IV, who would later rename himself Akhenaton. She is one of the most iconic and recognizable queens in ancient history. Revered for her beauty, intelligence, and influence, Nefertiti’s name has come to symbolize African elegance, strength, and grace. Her legendary bust remains one of the most famous symbols of royalty and beauty in the ancient world.

A Queen Who Changed Egypt

Together with Akhenaton, Nefertiti led a spiritual revolution in Egypt. They shifted the nation's belief system from polytheism—worshiping many gods—to monotheism, centering religious life around one god: Aten, the sun disk. This major religious transformation not only disrupted centuries of tradition but also reshaped political and cultural life in Egypt.

A Ruler in Her Own Right

Nefertiti was not a passive figurehead. She played a central role in governance and spiritual leadership. Ancient carvings and temple inscriptions show her performing rituals, leading ceremonies, and even wielding power as a co-ruler alongside Akhenaton. Her visibility and authority highlight her status as more than just a queen—she was a leader in her own right.

What School Never Taught Me

Growing up, the history books I read in school rarely—if ever—mentioned Nefertiti or any of the great African rulers. Instead, they focused heavily on European explorers and colonial empires. There was no mention of Africa’s powerful past, or the fact that the continent was once regarded as a world power by Rome and other ancient Mediterranean societies.

The Forgotten Kingdoms of Africa

Long before the slave trade, Africa was home to great civilizations led by black kings and queens. It was a land that exported gold, diamonds, advanced knowledge, and culture to the ancient world. Africa's contributions to science, architecture, and philosophy were essential to global development, yet these facts were overlooked in traditional Western education.

Beyond the Slave Narrative

The dominant historical narrative often begins Africa’s story with colonization and slavery. But the deeper truth reveals African explorers and seafarers who traveled far and wide, long before Columbus. These stories are rarely told, but they are crucial to understanding the full legacy of Africa’s impact on the world.

Reclaiming the Story

When we look beyond the limited view of history taught in most schools, we uncover a vibrant and powerful Africa. It was a continent full of leaders, visionaries, scholars, and builders. Yes, Africa experienced slavery—but it was also home to some of the greatest empires the world has ever known. That history deserves recognition and celebration.

History That Looks Like Me

The most heartbreaking omission in my education was that I was never told there were kings and queens who looked like me. That truth was hidden. But now I know—and it makes all the difference. Knowing that African royalty shaped the ancient world helps reshape how I see myself, my history, and my future.

💬 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going!
Did you learn something new about Queen Nefertiti or African history? Share your thoughts in the comments below! 
📢 Share this post with someone who needs to know our history didn't begin with slavery—it began with royalty.

The Crittenden Compromise

Attempt to Save Slavery

Introduction

Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom, marking the day when the last enslaved African Americans in Texas learned of their emancipation. But the road to freedom was long and filled with political battles, compromises, and resistance from those who wanted to keep slavery alive. One of the last major attempts to preserve slavery in the United States was the Crittenden Compromise, a proposal introduced just before the Civil War. Understanding this compromise helps us see how close the country came to permanently protecting slavery—and why its failure was a crucial step toward justice.

The Fight Over Slavery and Citizenship

Juneteenth marks a major turning point in American history. Around the time of Juneteenth and the end of slavery in the southern United States, about 250,000 of the 4 million enslaved people in America were freed. The passage of the 13th Amendment soon followed, officially ending slavery and moving the United States Constitution a little closer to its promise that "all men are created equal."

The 14th and 15th Amendments continued this progress. Former slaves, once counted as only three-fifths of a person under the Constitution, were now recognized as full American citizens. These amendments promised equal protection under the law and voting rights, at least in theory. Although struggles continued, these changes represented a giant leap toward true citizenship and human rights for African Americans.

Why Juneteenth and July 4th Matter Together

Before Juneteenth, the Fourth of July did not fully apply to all Americans. July 4th celebrated the nation's independence, but enslaved African Americans were not included in that freedom. Today, because of Juneteenth, Independence Day can truly be seen as a celebration for all citizens. While July 4th represents the birth of a free nation, Juneteenth celebrates the freedom and independence of a people—Africans and African Americans—within that nation.

The Crittenden Compromise: A Desperate Attempt to Keep Slavery

As early as Abraham Lincoln’s presidential campaign, debates about how to handle slavery were heating up. Both anti-slavery and pro-slavery groups wrestled with how the nation should move forward. During this time, U.S. Senator John Crittenden of Kentucky introduced a proposal called the Crittenden Compromise, aiming to settle the growing divide between the North and South.

Even though many of the original Constitutional delegates were slaveholders, the Constitution never directly mentioned slavery. Leaders knew slavery was a major part of the American economy, but few wanted to confront it head-on—not even Lincoln, who was campaigning for the highest office. Instead, there were several efforts to "compromise," including proposals that would have officially written slavery into the Constitution itself.

Turning Back the Clock to Protect Slavery

The Crittenden Compromise tried to roll back time. It sought to bring back the old Missouri Compromise boundaries of 1820, which limited where slavery could exist. Additionally, it proposed a new constitutional amendment that would permanently protect slavery from any future federal interference. Essentially, it tried to guarantee slavery’s survival forever.

The founding fathers may have avoided mentioning slavery in the Constitution because it clashed with the ideas of liberty and freedom that the document was built upon. However, over the years, political leaders from both major parties—Democrats and Republicans—continued to avoid fully addressing the injustice of slavery. This political avoidance lasted right up until the outbreak of the Civil War.

The Crittenden Compromise’s Failure and the Road to Freedom

The Crittenden Compromise serves as a reminder that, even as the nation inched toward ending slavery, there were powerful efforts to preserve it. Just before slavery's collapse, politicians were still trying to embed it into the nation's highest law. Thanks to the courage of those who fought for freedom—and the eventual failure of compromises like Crittenden’s—America took vital steps toward justice, equality, and true independence for all its people.

Conclusion: The Fight for True Freedom Continues

The failure of the Crittenden Compromise was a major turning point in American history. If it had passed, slavery might have lasted much longer—perhaps even permanently. But its defeat helped pave the way for the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation, and ultimately, the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments. Juneteenth is a reminder that freedom was never freely given—it had to be fought for. Understanding the political battles of the past, like the Crittenden Compromise, helps us appreciate the significance of Juneteenth and reminds us that the fight for justice and equality is ongoing.

What Are Your Thoughts?

The Crittenden Compromise reminds us of how fragile progress toward freedom can be, and how vital it is to learn from history. What are your thoughts on this failed attempt to preserve slavery and its role in shaping the future of the United States? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

🔗 Join the Conversation: If you found this post insightful, share it with friends, family, or anyone who might want to learn more about the history behind Juneteenth and the ongoing journey toward freedom and equality.

Bridging the Gap: Africans and African Americans

Bridging the Gap: African Americans and the Continent We Come From

What happens when people are removed from their land, their language, and their lineage for over 400 years? You get people transformed by survival. Stripped of names, culture, and belief systems, African descendants in the Americas were reshaped by foreign systems—educational, political, and social—that disconnected them from their ancestral identities. What emerged is the African American: a people often more American in culture than African in memory.

But history is never that simple. The transatlantic slave trade did more than deliver Africans to the U.S.—it scattered them throughout the Caribbean, South America, and the surrounding islands. Each group was molded by its own colonial powers, resulting in different yet connected cultural evolutions. And while slavery is often viewed through the lens of race today, it was a far more complex institution, present even in ancient African societies that once held global power.

This post isn’t about the full history of slavery. It’s about what remains today: the cultural rift between African Americans and continental Africans—a divide often felt most sharply when the two cross paths.

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Shared Roots, Divergent Paths

African Americans and Africans are branches of the same tree, but centuries of separation have shaped their leaves differently. African Americans descend from those taken from West and Central Africa, and their journey includes the trauma of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism in a society that often tried to erase their history. Africans, meanwhile, remained on the continent, preserving traditions, languages, and cultural systems that stretch back thousands of years.

The result? A shared origin, but very different identities.

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The Wealth Illusion

When African Americans visit African nations, they often encounter an unexpected barrier: the perception that they are wealthy. This belief, shaped by movies, music, and celebrity culture, can place a heavy burden on visitors. While some African Americans have achieved financial success, many face their own economic hardships. The cost of living in the U.S. is high, and income doesn’t always equal wealth.

For many, saving up just to visit Africa is a major achievement—not a sign of excess. And for those who move to Africa permanently, the transition comes with its own set of challenges.

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Expectations vs. Reality: Moving to Africa

Relocating to Africa is a dream for many African Americans looking to reconnect with their roots. But dreams meet reality when American comforts aren’t easily accessible—or affordable. Wanting American food, snacks, and beverages in Africa can quickly become an expensive habit, as these are imported luxury items in many countries. The desire to recreate an American lifestyle can become a financial strain and create a sense of cultural isolation.

Coming from a developed country with widespread infrastructure to one where resources may vary requires humility and flexibility. The key is learning to live with what’s available rather than constantly comparing and longing for what’s not. Embracing African ways of life—local foods, customs, and community rhythms—can make the experience more meaningful and sustainable.

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Africans: Don’t Be Fooled by Appearances

On the flip side, many Africans assume African Americans are rich because they come from a wealthier country. But income alone doesn’t tell the full story. African Americans often face unique economic pressures, including student loans, housing costs, and generational financial responsibilities. High earnings can be quickly consumed by high expenses, leaving little room for the kind of wealth people may imagine.

It’s important for Africans to see beyond stereotypes and understand that African Americans, despite appearances, often come seeking connection—not to flaunt status or wealth.

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Stereotypes Go Both Ways

African Americans also carry misconceptions about the continent. Years of negative media portrayals have led some to view Africa through the lens of poverty, underdevelopment, or outdated customs. These views overlook the immense cultural sophistication, innovation, and diversity found in African nations—from booming tech industries to rich artistic traditions and bustling urban centers.

Learning and unlearning are both necessary for true understanding. African Americans must be willing to see Africa for what it is today, not just what it was or what they were told it might be.

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Bridging the Divide

Healing the divide between African Americans and Africans requires openness and effort on both sides. Travel, cultural exchange, storytelling, and honest conversations are powerful tools in building empathy and breaking down misconceptions. The more both groups engage with one another authentically, the more they discover not just shared pain, but shared pride and potential.

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Moving Forward Together

Media and education also have a role to play. Accurate, respectful representation can help reframe both African and African American identities in the global imagination. Together, these two communities can shape a more inclusive narrative—one that honors the past, embraces the present, and builds a better future.

After all, whether we were born on the continent or far away from it, the drumbeat of Africa still echoes in our bones. And when we walk toward each other, rather than away, we begin to remember what was never truly lost.