1. A Critique on The Promised Land
Today's Discussion will Include:
Author of the book: Why is this important in writing an Historical account?
Reasons for the Great Black Migration
Who is represented in this book?
Conclusion; Was the Migration a Success?

2. Author of The Promised Land
What is Nicholas Lemann’s occupation?
How would being a reporter/magazine writer have an effect when writing an Historical account?
Could the writing found in The Promised Land, be more for entertainment then for historical accuracy?

3. Reasons for the Great Black Migration
What was the reason so many African Americans moved from the South to the North in the 1920’s-1960’s?
What was Lemann’s belief the Migration occurred?
Could a technological advancement such as the Mechanical Cotton Picker have such a massive effect on the societal structure at the time?
What could factors such as World War I and World War II have on such movement North?

4. Who is Represented in The Promised Land?
Ruby Haynes is the main character; is this a valid representation for African Americans?
Why was the Black middle class skimmed over in this account?
Could the use of Ruby be seen as a stereotypical choice? What other type of person could have been used?

5. Conclusion of Critique
Would Nicholas Lemann feel the Great Black Migration was a success/failure?
Does the class feel The Promised Land is historically accurate?
What is the importance of writing an historically accurate account versus writing for entertainment?
Click here for more information on The Great Black Migration.