Overview
A compelling new look at the story of five African Americans—nearly a third of John Brown’s raiders in 1859—who collectively have never been subject of a book
A gripping account of the five African American soldiers who fought alongside John Brown at Harpers Ferry.Eugene Meyer shines a light on the forgotten stories of John Copeland, Shields Green, Dangerfield Newby, Lewis Leary, and Osborne Perry Anderson, revealing their motivations, sacrifices, and lasting impact on the fight for freedom. From their diverse backgrounds to their unwavering commitment to abolition, these men challenged the very foundations of slavery in 19th-century America.
Five for Freedom explores the complex racial dynamics of the era, the legacy of John Brown's raid, and the ongoing struggle for racial justice. Discover the courage and resilience of these unsung heroes and their enduring relevance in today's world. For readers of American history, Civil War studies, and anyone seeking inspiration from the fight for equality.
Reviews
"Finding fascinating stories that other writers miss has been Eugene Meyer's calling card for decades, and he has done it again with this important and largely untold story of five men forgotten in the John Brown legend." —David Maraniss, Pulitzer Prize–winning author of They Marched into Sunlight: War and Peace, Vietnam and America, October 1967
"Eugene Meyer has given the story of John Brown's raid on Harpers Ferry new meaning and relevance by restoring Brown's black collaborators to their rightful place in history. Five for Freedom elevates the names Newby, Anderson, Copeland, Leary, and Green to stand with Brown as individuals who were willing to sacrifice their own lives to rid our country of the horror of chattel slavery." —Margot Lee Shetterly, author of Hidden Figures
"Deftly weaving history and biography, Meyer reconstructs how these five men came to join the ill-fated attempt to spark a slave revolt. Their role will not be forgotten now that—at long last—it is contained in an engaging and memorable book.” —James McGrath Morris, author of Eye on the Struggle: Ethel Payne, the First Lady of the Black Press.
"A well-written tour de force of historical detective work.” —Ernest B. Furgurson, author of Freedom Rising and Chancellorsville 1863
"Meyer rights a wrong older than the Civil War…The author delivers a well-researched, approachable narrative... A good book for Civil War buffs." —Kirkus Reviews
"Eugene L. Meyer has brought to light the central role of the leadership in the black community at the time of the raid... His book has done these freedom fighters a great service.” —Frank Smith, founding director, African American Civil War Memorial Museum
"this book rectifies a glaring omission, focusing on those who stood with John against all odds; but who have largely been forgotten by history."—Midwest Book Review
"You probably have never heard of Osborne Perry Anderson, John Anthony Copeland, Shields Green, Lewis Sheridan Leary and Dangerfield Newby. But after reading this book, you will never forget them.” —Courtland Milloy Jr., Washington Post columnist
Author Biography
Eugene L. Meyer is a former longtime Washington Post reporter and editor who has also written for the New York Times, U.S. News & World Report, and many other national and regional publications. He is a contributing editor to Bethesda Magazine and edits the quarterly B’nai B’rith Magazine.
Mother's Day
Father's Day
