Behind the Scenes: Or, Thirty Years a Slave and Four Years in the White House by Elizabeth Keckley

Description

Behind the Scenes: Or, Thirty Years a Slave and Four Years in the White House by Elizabeth Keckley is a remarkable autobiography published in 1868. The book chronicles Keckley's extraordinary life journey, transitioning from slavery to becoming a successful dressmaker and confidante to Mary Todd Lincoln, the First Lady of the United States. Born into slavery, Keckley endured years of hardship and abuse before purchasing her freedom in 1855. She established herself as a talented seamstress in Washington, D.C., where her skill and professionalism gained her access to elite society. This eventually led to her role as a dressmaker and trusted companion to Mary Lincoln during Abraham Lincoln's presidency. The book provides a unique perspective on the intimate lives of the Lincolns during the Civil War, offering insight into Mary Lincoln's struggles, including financial troubles and the profound grief she experienced after her husband's assassination. Keckley's narrative also addresses the broader issues of race, class, and identity in 19th-century America, as well as her own reflections on resilience and self-determination. While controversial at the time of its release due to its candid revelations about the Lincoln family, Behind the Scenes remains a significant historical document, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the intersection of personal and political life during one of America's most tumultuous eras.

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