Author Jabari Asim chronicles the story of African Americans from the slave trader through the American Revolution and the Civil War to the Tuskegee experiments, the Civil Rights movement, the election of Barack Obama. Sections throughout highlight the contribution of African Americans to the arts, music, literature, culture, sports and more. The book also features interactive projects that kids can do on their own or with their guardians including recipes and crafts.

Includes index.

What is african american history? --The beginnings of slavery -- The abolitionist movement -- The civil war and the road to freedom -- Turn of the 20th century -- The harlem renaissance -- The bumpy road to civil rights -- Artists of note part 1 -- Achievements in sports part 1 -- The civil rights era -- Artists of note part 2 -- Achievements in sports part 2 -- Political trailblazers -- Progress and setbacks -- Artists of note part 3 -- Achievements in sports part 3 -- Dominant athletes -- A new millennium -- Artists of note part 4 -- Achievements in sports part 4 -- African american history museums & places of interest -- Index.