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Rising from the Rails

Pullman Porters and the Making of the Black Middle Class
Pages
352
Published
2004
Language
English

Synopsis

From the 1860s to the mid-twentieth century, the Pullman porter held a paradoxical position: one of the best jobs for African-Americans and one of the worst on the train. These men served as valets, nannies, and concierges to white passengers, embodying the romance of the railroad while struggling for dignity. This book explores the complex life of a Pullman porter, revealing a crucial, often overlooked chapter of American history. It delves into their daily challenges and their significant, though largely unrecognized, role in the fight for civil rights during the Jim Crow era.

About the author

L
Larry Tye

Larry Tye wrote The Father of Spin, a biography exploring Edward Bernays. He specializes in non-fiction, often focusing on influential historical figures. Tye's books provide straightforward insights into their lives.