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Lean'tin Bracks

Courage, resilience and triumph! Celebrating the African American experience, the extraordinary people, and their profound influence on American history!

African Americans helped build the United States. Their contributions, deeds, and influence are interwoven into the fabric of the country. Celebrating centuries of achievements, the African American Almanac: 400 Years of Black Excellence provides insights on the impact and inspiration of African Americans on U.S. society and culture spanning centuries and presented in a fascinating mix of biographies, historical facts, and enlightening essays on significant legislation and movements.

Covering events surrounding African American literature, art and music; the civil rights movement; religion within the black community; advances in science and medicine; and politics, education, business, the military, sports, theater, film, and television, this important reference connects history to the issues currently facing the African American community. The African American Almanac also honors the lives and contributions of 800 influential figures, including ...

Stacey Abrams, Muhammad Ali, Maya Angelou, Josephine Baker, Amiri Baraka, Daisy Bates, Reginald Wayne Betts, Simone Biles, Cory Bush, Bisa Butler, George Washington Carver, Ray Charles, Bessie Coleman, Claudette Colvin, Gary Davis, Frederick Douglass, W. E. B. Du Bois, Michael Eric Dyson, Duke Ellington, Margie Eugene-Richard, Medgar Evers, Henry Louis Gates, Jr., Roxane Gay, Amanda Gorman, Nicole Hanna-Jones, Eric H. Holder, Jr., Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, Ketanji Brown Jackson, LeBron James, Mae C. Jemison, Gayle King, Martin Luther King, Jr., Queen Latifah, Jacob Lawrence, Kevin Liles, Thurgood Marshall, Walter Mosley, Elijah Muhammad, Barack Obama, Gordon Parks, Rosa Parks, Richard Pryor, Condoleezza Rice, Smokey Robinson, Wilma Rudolph, Betty Shabazz, Tavis Smiley, Dasia Taylor, Clarence Thomas, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Ross Tubman, C. Delores Tucker, Usher, Denmark Vesey, Alice Walker, Raphael Warnock, Booker T. Washington, Denzel Washington, Cornell West, Colson Whitehead, Justus Williams, Serena Williams, Oprah Winfrey, Malcolm X, and many more.

Completely updated and revised for the first time in over a decade, the African American Almanac looks at the recent challenges—from the Black Lives Movement to Covid-19—and ongoing resilience of our nation, and it shines a light on our momentous and complicated history, the individual accomplishments and contributions of the celebrated and unsung—but no less worthy—people who built our country and who continue to influence American society.

Comprehensive and richly illustrated, it thoroughly explores the past, progress, and current conditions of America. This seminal work is the most complete and affordable single-volume reference of African American culture and history available today, and it illustrates and demystifies the emotionally moving, complex, and often lost history of black life in America!

Visible Ink Press

The Multicultural History & Heroes Collection

African American Almanac: 400 Years of Black Excellence

Arlene Hirschfelder

Yvonne Wakim Dennis

Paulette F. Molin

A celebration of achievement, accomplishments, and courage!

Native American Medal of Honor recipients, Heisman Trophy recipients, U.S. Olympians, a U.S. vice president, Congressional representatives, NASA astronauts, Pulitzer Prize recipients, U.S. poet laureates, Oscar winners, and more. The first Native magician, all-Native comedy show, architects, attorneys, bloggers, chefs, cartoonists, psychologists, religious leaders, filmmakers, educators, physicians, code talkers, and inventors. Luminaries like Jim Thorpe, King Kamehameha, Debra Haaland, and Will Rogers, along with less familiar notables such as Native Hawaiian language professor and radio host Larry Lindsey Kimura and Cree/Mohawk forensic pathologist Dr. Kona Williams. Their stories plus the stories of 2000 people, events and places are presented in Indigenous Firsts: A History of Native American Achievements and Events, including …

 • Suzanne Van Cooten, Ph.D., Chickasaw Nation, the first Native female meteorologist in the country
 • Caleb Cheeshahteaumuck, Wampanoag from Martha’s Vineyard, graduate of Harvard College in 1665
 • Debra Haaland, the Pueblo of Laguna, U.S. Congresswoman and Secretary of the Interior
 • Sam Campos, the Native Hawaiian who developed the Hawaiian superhero Pineapple Man
 • Thomas L. Sloan, Omaha, was the first Native American to argue a case before the U.S. Supreme Court
 • William R. Pogue, Choctaw, astronaut
 • Johnston Murray, Chickasaw, the first person of Native American descent to be elected governor in the United States, holding the office in Oklahoma from 1951 to 1955
 • The Cherokee Phoenix published its first edition February 21, 1828, making it the first tribal newspaper in North America and the first to be published in an Indigenous language
 • The National Native American Honor Society was founded by acclaimed geneticist Dr. Frank C. Dukepoo , the first Hopi to earn a Ph.D.
 • Louis Sockalexis, Penobscot, became the first Native American in the National Baseball League in 1897 as an outfielder with the Cleveland Spiders
 • Jock Soto, Navajo/Puerto Rican, the youngest-ever man to be the principal dancer with the New York City Ballet
 • The Seminole Tribe of Florida was the first Nation to own and operate an airplane manufacturing company
 • Warrior's Circle of Honor, the National Native American Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC, on the grounds of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian
 • The Iolani Palace, constructed 1879–1882, the home of the Hawaiian royal family in Honolulu
 • Loriene Roy, Anishinaabe, White Earth Nation, professor at the University of Texas at Austin’s School of Information, former president of the American Library Association
 • Ben Nighthorse Campbell, Northern Cheyenne, U.S. representative and U.S. senator from Colorado
 • Hanay Geiogamah, Kiowa /Delaware, founded the American Indian Theatre Ensemble
 • Gerald Vizenor, White Earth Nation, writer, literary critic, and journalist for the Minneapolis Tribune
 • Ely S. Parker (Hasanoanda, later Donehogawa), Tonawanda Seneca, lieutenant colonel in the Union Army, serving as General Ulysses S. Grant’s military secretary
 • Fritz Scholder, Luiseno, painter inducted into the California Hall of Fame
 • The Native American Women Warriors, the first all Native American female color guard
 • Lori Arviso Alvord, the first Navajo woman to become a board-certified surgeon
 • Kay “Kaibah” C. Bennett, Navajo, teacher, author, and the first woman to run for the presidency of the Navajo Nation
 • Sandra Sunrising Osawa, Makah Indian Nation, the first Native American to have a series on commercial television
 • The Choctaw people’s 1847 donation to aid the Irish people suffering from the great famine
 • Otakuye Conroy-Ben, Oglala Lakota, first to earn an environmental engineering Ph.D. at the University of Arizona
 • Diane J. Willis, Kiowa, former President of the Society of Pediatric Psychology and founding editor of the Journal of Pediatric Psychology
 • Shelly Niro, Mohawk, winner of Canada’s top photography prize, the Scotiabank Photography Award
 • Loren Leman, Alutiiq/Russian-Polish, was the first Alaska Native elected lieutenant governor
 • Kim TallBear, Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate, the first recipient of the Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Peoples, Technoscience, and Environment
 • Carissa Moore, Native Hawaiian, won the Gold Medal in Surfing at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics
 • Will Rogers, Cherokee, actor, performer, humorist was named the first honorary mayor of Beverly Hills
 • Foods of the Southwest Indian Nations by Lois Ellen Frank, Kiowa, was the first Native American cookbook to win the James Beard Award
 • Diane Humetewa, Hopi, nominated by President Barack Obama, became the first Native American woman to serve as a federal judge
 • Susie Walking Bear Yellowtail, Crow, the first Native American nurse to be inducted into the American Nursing Association Hall of Fame

Indigenous Firsts honors the ongoing and rich history of personal victories and triumphs, and with more than 200 photos and illustrations, this information-rich book also includes a helpful bibliography and an extensive index, adding to its usefulness. This vital collection will appeal to anyone interested in America’s amazing history and its resilient and skilled Indigenous people.

Indigenous Firsts: A History of Native American Achievements and Events

Nicolás Kanellos

A celebration of people and pride! Explore the achievements and contributions of Latinos in the United States with this illuminating history.
Latinos in the United States are a vibrant mix of people and multiple identities, each unique, varied, and accomplished. Beginning with the Spanish explorers in the sixteenth century, Latinos have been an important part of American society. They’ve fought the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, and all wars in between and since, and in the last decade, their businesses have grown at twice the pace of the overall U.S. economy.

The most complete and affordable single-volume reference on Latino history available today, Latino Almanac: From Columbus to Corporate America honors the history and the impact of Latinos on the United States. This hefty tome is a fascinating mix of biographies, little-known or misunderstood historical facts, and enlightening essays on significant legislation, movements, current issues, and achievements across a variety of fields, including business, labor, politics, the military, music, sports, law, media, religion, art, literature, theater, film, science, technology, and medicine. A large collection of 650 biographies includes both celebrated and lesser-known Latino stars, such as 

Dolores Fernández Huerta • , labor leader
Sonia Sotomayor • , Supreme Court justice
Juan Felipe Herrera • , U.S. poet laureate
Roberto C. Goizueta • , businessperson, former CEO of Coca-Cola
Selena Gómez • , actor, singer, producer
Rebecca Lobo • , basketball player, sports analyst
Anthony D. Romero • , executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez • , U.S. congressperson
Ellen Ochoa • , astronaut, engineer
Anthony R. Jiménez • , entrepreneur
María Hinojosa • , journalist
Dennis Chávez • , U.S. senator
Oscar Muñoz • , businessperson, CEO United Airlines
Antonia Novello • , surgeon general of the United States
Geraldo Miguel Rivera • , journalist
Lin-Manuel Miranda • , playwright, actor, director
Alex Rodríguez • , baseball player
Rodolfo Anaya • , novelist
Desi Arnaz • , television producer, actor, singer
Jessica Mendoza • , sportscaster, softball player
Nydia Velásquez • , U.S. congressperson
Edward James Olmos • , actor
Marco Rubio • , U.S. senator
Rita Moreno • , actor, dancer
César Chávez • , labor leader
Marcelo Claure • , businessperson, former Sprint CEO
Ariel Dorfman • , playwright, novelist
Miriam Colón • , actress, theater owner, producer
Joaquín Castro • , chair of the Hispanic Congressional Caucus
 • And many, many more!

While Latinos are among both the original and newest immigrants, today the majority of U.S. Latinos were born here and most speak English—although most are bilingual to one degree or another. Their influence on the economy and culture continues to increase. Their impact on the United States has been wide-ranging. Salsa has even overtaken ketchup to become the most popular condiment in the United States! Devoted to illustrating the moving and often lost history of Latinos in America, Latino Almanac is a unique and valuable resource. Numerous photographs and illustrations, a helpful bibliography, a timeline, and an extensive index add to its usefulness. Commemorating and honoring Latino achievements, honors, and influence, this important book brings to light all there is to admire and discover about Latino Americans!

Latino Almanac: From Early Explorers to Corporate Leaders

Jessie Carney Smith

More than 1,400 history-making black women’s achievements, ground-breaking successes, and all manner of pioneering accomplishments are profiled
Explores ground-breaking achievements in politics, religion, science, the arts, sports, education, civil rights, the military and more.
Thoroughly researched and documented history
From a scholar and researcher distilling and presenting the latest and most important information on the history of African American women in America
History made accessible with fascinating stories of accomplishment, richly illustrated text, colorful personality studies, and fun facts.
Written for and aimed at general audiences
Authoritative reference on African American history and powerful, lesser-known stories
Logical organization makes finding information quick and easy
Clear and concise answers
210 illustrations and photos bring the text to life
Thoroughly indexed
Authoritative resource
Written to appeal to anyone interested in African American achievements, history, and pride
Publicity and promotion aimed at the wide array of websites devoted to history and education
Black history month promotion targeting more mainstream media and websites on a popular topic
Promotion targeting magazines and newspapers
publicity and promotion aimed at websites
promotion targeting more mainstream book review media and websites
promotion targeting national and local radio
promotion targeting history and educational magazines and regional newspapers

Originals!: Black Women Breaking Barriers

Deborah G. Felder

120 biographies of history-making women 
Explores ground-breaking achievements in politics, religion, science, art, music, literature, sports, education, civil rights, the military and more.
From a scholar and researcher distilling and presenting the latest and most important information on the history of women in America
Clear organization makes finding information quick and easy
Fascinating storytelling
Historical insights and explanations
120 illustrations and photos bring the text to life
Helpful bibliography
Thoroughly indexed
Authoritative resource
Ideal for anyone seeking a better understanding of the invaluable role of women in American history
publicity and promotion aimed at websites
promotion targeting more mainstream book review media and websites
promotion targeting national and local radio
promotion targeting history and educational magazines and regional newspapers

Trailblazing Women!: Amazing Americans Who Made History

Previous editions sold a combined 200,000 units 
More than 4,000 history-making achievements, ground-breaking successes, and pioneering accomplishments
Fully revised with more than 500 new accomplishments—as well as newly uncovered historic firsts 
Thoroughly researched and documented history
First revision in eight years
History made accessible with fascinating stories of accomplishment, richly illustrated text, colorful personality studies, and fun facts.
Written for and aimed at general audiences
The first, best place to turn for an overview of history basics
Authoritative reference on African American history and powerful, lesser-known stories
Logical organization makes finding information quick and easy
Clear and concise answers
Numerous black-and-white photographs
Thoroughly indexed
Authoritative resource
Written to appeal to anyone interested in African American achievements, history, and pride—including students, teachers, and researchers
Publicity and promotion aimed at the wide array of websites devoted to history and education
Back-to-school promotion targeting more mainstream media and websites on a popular topic
Promotion targeting magazines and newspapers

Black Firsts: 500 Years of Trailblazing Achievements and Ground-Breaking Events

More than 300 biographies of history-making women 
Explores 13 topical histories, including politics, religion, science, art, music, literature, sports, education, civil rights, and the military
Hundreds of history-making and inspiring events explored
From a scholar and researcher distilling and presenting the latest and most important information on the history of women in America
Clear organization makes finding information quick and easy
Fascinating storytelling
Historical insights and explanations
550 illustrations and photos bring the text to life
Each entry includes addresses, phone numbers, and websites for easy visitation
Helpful bibliography
Thoroughly indexed
Authoritative resource
Ideal for anyone seeking a better understanding of the oversized role of women in American history
publicity and promotion aimed at websites
promotion targeting more mainstream book review media and websites
promotion targeting national and local radio
promotion targeting history and educational magazines and regional newspapers

The American Women's Almanac: 500 Years of Making History

A state-by-state (and Canada too!) tour of monuments, events, sites, and festivals of Indigenous American history
From ancient rock drawings, historic sites, and modern museums to eco- and cultural tourism, sports events and powwows, the Native American Landmarks and Festivals: A Traveler’s Guide to Indigenous United States and Canada provides a fascinating tour of the rich heritage of Indigenous people across the continent. Whether it’s the annual All Indian Rodeo in Las Vegas, Nevada, a dog-sledding trek in Arctic Bay, Nunavut, or a rough ride to the ancient Kaunolu Village Site on Lanai, Hawaii, there is lots more to experience in the Indigenous world right around the corner, including … 

 The Montezuma Castle National Monument
 Trail of Tears National Historic Trail
 The Red Earth Festival in Oklahoma City
 The Autry Museum of the American West
 The Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center
 The Thunderbird Powwow
 The First Nations Film and Video Festival in various cities and states
 The Angel Mounds State Memorial
 The Harvest Moon American Indian Festival
 The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
 Canada’s National Aboriginal Veterans Monument
 And hundreds more!

Native American Landmarks and Festivals guides the traveler to 729 landmarks, sites, festivals, and events in all 50 states and Canada. Travelers not only read about the history and traditions for each site, but maps, photos, illustrations, addresses and websites are also included to help further exploration. This book lets the reader choose from a vast array of “authentic” adventures such as dog sledding, camping in a tip, hunting and fishing expeditions, researching the history with the people who made the history, making crafts, herbal walks, building and sailing in canoes, hiking along ancient routes, exploring rock art, and preparing and eating Native foods. 

Organized by region, Indigenous enterprises are included in state and federal parks, including federal and international heritage sites, public and private museums and non-Native events that include Indigenous voice. This convenient reference also has a helpful bibliography and an extensive index, adding to its usefulness. Whether traveling by car, plane, or armchair, Native American Landmarks and Festivals: A Traveler’s Guide to Indigenous United States and Canada will bring hours of enjoyable discovery.

Native American Landmarks and Festivals: A Traveler’s Guide to Indigenous United States and Canada

Shannon Rothenberger Flynn

Explore the vibrant Native American experience with this comprehensive and affordable historical overview of Indigenous communities and Native American life!

The impact of early encounters, past policies, treaties, wars, and prejudices toward America’s Indigenous peoples is a legacy that continues to mark America. The history of the United States and Native Americans are intertwined. Agriculture, place names, and language have all been influenced by Native American culture. The stories and history of pre- and post-colonial Tribal Nations and peoples continue to resonate and informs the geographical boundaries, laws, language and modern life.

From ancient rock drawings to today’s urban living, the Native American Almanac: More than 50,000 Years of the Cultures and Histories of Indigenous Peoples traces the rich heritage of indigenous people. It is a fascinating mix of biography, pre-contact and post-contact history, current events, Tribal Nations’ histories, enlightening insights on environmental and land issues, arts, treaties, languages, education, movements, and more. Ten regional chapters, including urban living, cover the narrative history, the communities, land, environment, important figures, and backgrounds of each area’s Tribal Nations and peoples. The stories of 345 Tribal Nations, biographies of 400 influential figures in all walks of life, Native American firsts, awards, and statistics are covered. 150 photographs and illustrations bring the text to life.

The most complete and affordable single-volume reference work about Native American culture available today, the Native American Almanac is a unique and valuable resource devoted to illustrating, demystifying, and celebrating the moving, sometimes difficult, and often lost history of the indigenous people of America. Capturing the stories and voices of the American Indian of yesterday and today, it provides a range of information on Native American history, society, and culture. A must have for anyone interested in our America’s rich history!