Conjuring Freedom

Conjuring Freedom

by Johari Jabir

"Music and Masculinity in the Civil War's "Gospel Army""

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Conjuring Freedom

Conjuring Freedom by Johari Jabir

Details

War:

American Civil War

Perspective:

Infantry

True Story:

Yes

Biography:

No

Region:

North America

Page Count:

181

Published Date:

2017

ISBN13:

9780814213308

Description

Brief Summary

Conjuring Freedom by Johari Jabir dives into the intricate world of the 1st South Carolina Volunteers, an all-Black regiment during the Civil War. Jabir meticulously analyzes their musical traditions, particularly the ring shout, highlighting how music served as a conduit for new identities in the context of citizenship, masculinity, and resistance. The book not only addresses the historical context but also explores the influence of these musical practices on contemporary Black culture, challenging commonly held narratives about African American identity and citizenship.

Main Themes and Topics

The book explores the intersection of music, identity, and resistance, focusing on how the 1st South Carolina Volunteers used music as a means to embody and perform new identities amid the challenges of their time. Central to its themes are the concepts of Black Communal Conservatories, Listening Hermeneutics, and Sonic Politics. These frameworks are instrumental in examining how music influenced national citizenship and masculinity and how it served as an enduring form of cultural and political resistance.

Jabir emphasizes the role of the ring shout and the broader cultural implications of these musical traditions. The persistence of these practices in Black culture is juxtaposed with more mainstream representations of race and history, such as those found in the film "Glory," offering a powerful critique of the simplistic narratives surrounding African American citizenship.

Writing Style and Tone

Johari Jabir's writing is both scholarly and accessible, blending rigorous academic analysis with engaging storytelling. The tone is thoughtful and reflective, inviting readers to reconsider long-standing assumptions about race, music, and identity. Through rich descriptions and careful analysis, Jabir successfully connects historical events to contemporary cultural studies, making the complex topics approachable for a broad audience.

Awards and Recognition

Conjuring Freedom has been lauded for its innovative approach to cultural studies and its deep dive into an often-overlooked aspect of Civil War history. While specific awards may not be mentioned, the book's impact on discussions around race, music, and identity is undeniably significant, making it a respected text in both academic and broader cultural contexts.

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