Wills got a winner with Black Fortunes-The Story of the First Six Afro-American Who Escaped from Slavery and Became a Millionaire. As the title suggests, the author portrayed the stories of six people: Mary Ellen Pleasant, Robert Church Reed, OW Gurley, Hannah Elias, Annie Turnbo Malone and Mrs CJ Walker. While some are familiar with the history of Madam’s hair care empire, I find the stories of her predecessors to be just as fascinating.
What makes the book a page turner? You see the determination, ingenuity, courage, brilliance and faith of people who, despite their beginnings, pursued their dreams; as a result, they amassed a fortune, enduring unspeakable circumstances. You are committed from start to finish. This article looks at some of the benefits that I think any reader will reap.
5 Benefits
· History
Burke stated that “those who do not know history are destined to repeat it.” Black Fortune contains a ton of American history. You name it: slavery, reconstruction, segregation, Jim Crow, growing west, Native American resettlement, business, real estate, housing, government, interracial dating/relationships, and you’ll find it. Plus, find out how millionaires used their money to support abolitionists.
Indeed, I suggest that high school and college instructors alike consider making this book a required reading for history or business classes. In addition to acquiring knowledge that has been saved from history books, students will make connections between the past and the present. How can you avoid repeating what you don’t know?
· case studies
Along with the benefit of a unique historical perspective, the book provides six amazing case studies. Despite the conditions, each person discovered a way to survive and thrive. like many herds Afro-American today, these people used their prosperity to support worthy causes. Therefore, their stories present lessons on building businesses (marketing, research, recruiting talent, business expansion, raising capital, investing, product development, community involvement, and more). Simply put, the rise of Black Wall Street deserves close scrutiny. You are bound to evoke a variety of emotions and lively discussions.
· Vision
At the same time, Black Fortunes offers information for entrepreneurs. The pioneers shared great intuition, as well as a knack for taking risks. Unlike many who scream in fear in the face of adversity, this group was looking for opportunities. In addition, they designed strategies to take advantage of the products and services.
Are you an entrepreneur? If he answered yes, you need a copy. If you read a chapter or two on days when things seem impossible, you are sure to gain understanding and encouragement.
· Inspiration
When you look at what these six people endured, it will inspire anyone to live a life of purpose, especially people of color. How does someone just out of slavery not only lift themselves up but outdo the people who oppressed them? They had less to work with, faced insurmountable difficulties, and could not openly enjoy the fruits of their labor. In short, they proved everyone wrong by dismantling stereotypes. So if the six people in this book achieved what they did then, we can achieve more today.
· Entertainment
Someone said, “Anyone who tries to make a distinction between education and entertainment knows nothing about either.” In my opinion, this book is a good movie; teaches and inspires.