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Behind the Scenes

or, Thirty Years a Slave, and Four Years in the White House

Elizabeth Keckley author James Olney editor

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Oxford University Press Inc

Published:15th Feb '90

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

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Behind the Scenes cover

This autobiography offers a profound look at a woman's life from slavery to her time in Lincoln's White House during the Civil War, as detailed in Behind the Scenes.

In Behind the Scenes, the author shares an intimate and personal account of her life as a slave and her subsequent experiences in the White House during the Civil War. This autobiography sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of a black woman who transitioned from bondage to a position of influence, working as a seamstress and dressmaker. Her unique perspective allows readers to witness the complexities of life in a time of great upheaval in American history.

As the narrative unfolds, we are introduced to key historical figures, including President Abraham Lincoln and his family, revealing their daily lives and interactions behind the closed doors of the White House. The author’s candid reflections provide a rare glimpse into the personal dynamics of the Lincoln household, as well as the broader societal issues of race and freedom that permeated the era.

The journey from slavery to the heart of the nation’s government is both inspiring and thought-provoking. Behind the Scenes not only chronicles the author's remarkable experiences but also serves as a vital reminder of the resilience and strength of those who lived through this tumultuous period. Through her eyes, readers gain a deeper understanding of the Civil War's impact on individuals and families, making this autobiography a significant contribution to the historical narrative of America.

`Invaluable ... Elizabeth Keckley's memoir of her life as a White House dressmaker for Mary Todd Lincoln ... [is a] curious gem' New York Times Book Review

ISBN: 9780195060843

Dimensions: 162mm x 117mm x 27mm

Weight: 304g

404 pages