JA Rogers wrote a book called “The 100 Amazing Facts About Black,” and it was far from making the bestseller list. The work of the young author was prohibited in some places. Some libraries refused to carry it, the book’s content being deemed so overwhelming that the insightful literary work all but disappeared from view. The fact that it was written in 1934 is even more surprising. The book was created at a time when African Americans were 20 years from the start of the historic Civil Rights Movement. His manuscript was one that described the contributions of African Americans to the success of this country. It helped open the eyes of the people who had a chance to read it, to the true journeys of African Americans. The influence of the book is so incredible that it can still be found on Amazon, 76 years later. With the help of the web, African American history has had a chance to really flourish.
The online movement of African-American literature has really just started to pick up speed. With places like Necole Bitchey, 21 Blackstreet, Bossip and other powerhouses starting to move into full swing, the thoughts and spirit of another culture have moved into another realm. I know JA Rogers is in heaven basking in the glory of it. His literature secured his legacy and his thought influenced a nation. As young writers all we can do is thank you and make sure we keep the torch burning. With the help of the web, all our voices will be heard forever.