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The Port Chicago 50: Disaster, Mutiny, and the Fight for Civil Rights

SKU E1481
On July 17, 1944, a massive explosion rocked the segregated Navy base at Port Chicago, California, killing more than 300 sailors who were at the docks, critically injuring off-duty men in their bunks, and shattering windows up to a mile away. On August 9th, 244 men refused to go back to work until unsafe and unfair conditions at the docks were addressed. When the dust settled, fifty were charged with mutiny, facing decades in jail and even execution.

The Port Chicago 50 is a fascinating story of the prejudice and injustice that faced black men and women in America's armed forces during World War II, and a nuanced look at those who gave their lives in service of a country where they lacked the most basic rights.

This thoroughly-researched and documented book can be worked into multiple aspects of the common core curriculum, including history and social studies.

Steve Sheinkin is the acclaimed author of many nonfiction works, including The Notorious Benedict Arnold: A True Story of Adventure, Heroism & Treachery, Newbery Honor Book and National Book Award Finalist Bomb: The Race to Build--and Steal--the World's Most Dangerous Weapon, and National Book Award finalist Most Dangerous: Daniel Ellsberg and the Secret History of the Vietnam War.

“Sheinkin delivers another meticulously researched WWII story, one he discovered while working on his Newbery Honor book, Bomb. . . . Archival photos appear throughout, and an extensive bibliography, source notes, and index conclude this gripping, even horrific account of a battle for civil rights predating Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King, Jr.” ―Publishers Weekly

Remaindered title.Hardcover, 170 pages

Note about our Exceptional Value books:This is a Remaindered title: a new, unread, publisher over-stock copy in excellent condition, discounted anywhere from 20% to 49% off list, depending on the title. It could have light scuff marks or shelf wear but each book meets our high quality standards. All books will be marked with a stroke of a felt-tipped marker across the top or bottom of the book's pages, near the spine. We are confident you will be very happy with your purchase.


Your purchase supports the education and exhibit programs of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum..

    Your Price $10.00

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