Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves, Volume XVII, Virginia Narratives

"Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves" is a historical account documenting firsthand experiences of former slaves in the United States, compiled during the late 1930s. This collection provides a detailed insight into the lives, struggles, and resilience of enslaved individuals through their personal testimonies, notably from Virginia. The narratives not only highlight the harsh realities of slavery but also capture the culture, family relationships, and the sense of community among the enslaved. The opening of the book introduces several informants, primarily ex-slaves, sharing their memories of life before, during, and after the Civil War. For instance, we hear from Mrs. Fannie Berry, who reminisces about Nat Turner's Insurrection and the moments of fear and confusion that ensued among both slaves and masters. Other narratives describe moments of hardship, such as the cruelty of slave catchers, the limited but cherished personal autonomy, and the significance of religious gatherings, which served as an escape and source of hope. These accounts reveal a complex tapestry of human experience highlighting resilient spirits amidst oppressive circumstances, laying a foundation for understanding the broader historical context of slavery in America. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Works Progress Administration was an American New Deal agency that employed millions of jobseekers to carry out public works projects, including the construction of public buildings and roads. It was set up on May 6, 1935, by presidential order, as a key part of the Second New Deal.