Part of the National Park American History Series. "The African American Experience, 1565-1877" examines the role African Americans played in helping to shape first the colonies, then the young nation of America. It also shows how this "new world" shaped the new arrivals culturally, physically and spiritually.

This concise history, written by noted African American studies scholar Catherine Clinton, traces the arrival of African immigrants to St. Augustine, Florida in the late 1500s and follows their struggles for freedom through the Civil War and period of reconstruction. Along the way she explores the lives of African Americans as slaves, soldiers, sharecroppers, ministers and family members. The full-color cover features an image by renowned African American artist Romare Bearden. Softcover; 56 pages.