Under Their Own Vine and Fig Tree: The African-American Church in the South, 1865--1900 / Edition 1

by William E. Montgomery

Overview

The half century that followed emancipation was a crucial time for African Americans, most of whom had been slaves and were struggling with little reliable support and against determined opposition to attain the full promise of freedom. The church played a vital role in that struggle, providing spiritual comfort, social services, political leadership, and a strong sense of community. In Under Their Own Vine and Fig Tree, William E. Montgomery presents a comprehensive treatment of the black church and the southern environment in which it functioned from 1865 to 1900.

What emerges from his study is a portrait of a vibrant and powerful institution, one that is often seen as the purveyor of an otherworldly opiate for an oppressed people but that in reality was an important instrument for the steady advancement of African Americans.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780807119655
Publisher:	Louisiana State University Press
Publication date:	09/01/1994
Edition description:	REPRINT
Pages:	376
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.90(d)

About the Author

William E. Montgomery is an instructor of history at Austin Community College in Austin, Texas. In 1989–1990, he was a Fulbright professor at the University of Lesotho.

Editorial Reviews

Montgomery (history, Austin Community Coll.) provides an excellent and well-researched look at the African American church in the last half of the 19th century. During this period, the church led and supported the development of the free black community. Montgomery examines its political role and its influence on social interaction and education. He identifies the unique elements of African American worship and chronicles the development of both standard and independent black denominations. He devotes a chapter to the great importance of the black preacher during this period and his evolving status. In the epilog, Montgomery looks briefly at the changes in black society in the early 20th century, which influenced the changing role of the church. Recommended for public and academic libraries.-- C. Robert Nixon, MLS, Lafayette, Ind.

Library Journal

A comprehensive treatment, distinct from narrower studies of individuals or particular denominations, tracing the development of independent African-American denominations, the place of black congregations in biracial churches, significant religious traditions, and the role of the church in the larger community. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Booknews