Driving While Black: African American Travel and the Road to Civil Rights

The automobile has been a crucial symbol of independence for African Americans, offering a means to navigate and escape the perils of a racist society. Through a blend of archival research and personal narrative, Gretchen Sorin uncovers a hidden history of black mobility, highlighting the significance of travel guides like the Green Book. This exploration reveals how the car facilitated a unique form of resistance against oppression, allowing black families to experience the freedom of the open road while confronting societal challenges.