Taylor, Nikki M.

Spanning from the colonial period through to the early national and antebellum eras, Taylor’s extensively researched book not only powerfully depicts the trauma endured by enslaved women, it also details how federal and state governments and judicial systems propped up the institution of slavery and allowed or enacted its overwhelming violence.

Taylor crafts a book that should be read by all who have an interest in understanding the roots of slavery and oppression of women during the pre-Civil War era. It should also be read by those seeking to understand the depth of pain and depravity faced by women living under the tyranny of American slavery.