The Life and Legacy of Mary McLeod Bethune

Based in part on some 30 interviews of people with first-hand knowledge of this pioneering female black activist, The Life and Legacy of Mary McLeod Bethune is an essential work of African-American biography, and only the second such effort in more than 40 years.

High school and college educators who need literature about minorities and women can do no better than to acquire this text. Bethune (1875-1955) is a role model for black youth: at a time when the status of black women was generally quite low, she became an educator who started a college Bethune-Cookman, where Long teaches advised four presidents, received international acclaim and awards, and consistently fought for the rights of women and minorities.

Dr. Bethune's main message to youth entering college was, "Enter to learn; depart to serve." Especially if paired with the film Mary M. Bethune: A Portrait of Faith, to which Long also contributed, The Life and Legacy of Mary McLeod Bethune will inspire students and