Making Freedom:

African Americans in U.S. History

by Primary Source, Inc.

5 vols., available now from Heinemann

Go to the Heinemann website to order Making Freedom, and save 20% when you order the set online--also, read sample chapters from the books.

Note: If you have any difficulty using the CDs that accompany the Making Freedom series, please read these instructions (PDF document)

This series is an invaluable resource for teachers of seventh through twelfth grade American history who wish to present the history of African American ideas and to place that little-known history firmly within the American history curriculum. The Sourcebooks, examining African American thought from beginnings in Africa to 1970, are aligned with chronological eras traditionally studied in U.S. History: True to Our Native Land (Beginnings to 1770); A Song Full of Hope (1770-1830); Lift Every Voice (1830-1860); Our New Day Begun (1861-1877); and March On Till Victory (1877-1970).

Each book contains context essays by scholars, primary sources, 12-20 lesson plans by classroom teachers and Primary Source staff, and sidebar connections to contemporary events. Included in each volume are an introduction, timeline and extensive annotated bibliography for the entire series. Each book will be accompanied by a CD of primary sources, including maps, paintings, portraits, photographs and music.

Advance praise for Making Freedom:

Making Freedom is a beautifully crafted five-volume sourcebook for classroom use. In its presentation of primary sources and learning strategies it has no rival in the area of African American history. This handsome, thought-provoking series belongs on the desk of every middle and high school United States history teacher who knows that without African American history there is only a partial and unbalanced United States history.

— Gary B. Nash, Director, National Center for History in the Schools University of California, Los Angeles

The Making Freedom Sourcebooks and CDs are a treasure trove of documents, analysis, and resources guaranteed to inspire lively classroom discussion and thoughtful student research. This original collaboration between teachers and scholars offers extraordinary access to the historical and continuing role of African Americans in the shaping of our nation.

— Marilyn Richardson, Former Curator, Museum of Afro-American History and the African Meeting House, Boston, Massachusetts

Making Freedom offers teachers of American history a powerful and compelling teaching tool to help broaden their focus curriculum. The lessons are well crafted and provide students an opportunity to sharpen historical and critical thinking skills in a dynamic, meaningful, and relevant fashion. In the hands of teachers, Making Freedom will make a difference.

— Jim Percoco, Author, Divided We Stand: Teaching About Conflict in U.S. History