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Discover how learning and teaching Black history can spark resilience, healing, and change—even in the face of hate.
After a hate crime went viral, educator Ernest Crim III found himself at a crossroads. Instead of letting anger define his future, he turned to the lessons, leaders, and legacy of black history for answers. How Black History Can Save Your Life is a compelling guide that shows how black history information, teaching black history, and black history educational resources can empower individuals and transform communities.
Shortlisted for The New York Times Bestsellers
Crim reveals how understanding African American black history is not just about the past—it’s essential for navigating the present. From uncovering overlooked black history facts to sharing powerful black history stories, Crim demonstrates why black history for adults is more relevant than ever. The book explores why black history is American history, and how real history of America includes the triumphs, struggles, and contributions of Black Americans.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Practical strategies for teaching black history in classrooms, at home, and in your community.
- Black history educational insights that make complex topics accessible for all readers.
- Curated black history information and stories that go beyond textbooks, including unsung heroes and pivotal moments.
- Clear explanations of black history facts that challenge common myths and broaden your perspective.
- Discussion of racism in America, with recommended books on racism in America for deeper learning.
- Personal reflections and real-life applications, showing how learning and sharing Black history can foster resilience, empathy, and positive action.
Whether you’re an educator, student, parent, or lifelong learner, How Black History Can Save Your Life is your essential resource for understanding and teaching black history for adults. If you liked The Color of Law, Black AF History, or Black American History, you’ll love How Black History Can Save Your Life. Discover how Black history can change lives—including your own.
“Spectacular! I’ve been following Brother Ernest Crim and his phenomenal posts for years, educating the community about Black history and events that happened in our country on topics that I never knew about or even considered before! After reading the pages of this book I can honestly say he’s continued his legacy of excellence through education! Not only will the information he provided build you up and reinforce your understanding of self in a world designed to break you down, but his words will also broaden your understanding of your past, present, and future. Not to mention, it can truly save your life!”
—Mo’Nique, Academy Award-winning actress, comedian, executive producer, and bestselling author
“In How Black History Can Save Your Life, Ernest Crim III takes readers on a journey through his life, blending personal stories with untold lessons from Black history. With great insight and wisdom, Crim offers practical tools to navigate tough conversations about race and identity, inspiring hope and meaningful change. This book is a powerful guide to using history’s lessons to thrive today.”
—Kimberly Latrice Jones, New York Times bestselling author of I’m Not Dying With You Tonight
“Ernest Crim’s story is both urgent and indispensable. To overlook his story is to ignore a fundamental reality of our society—one that, if left unaddressed, threatens not just some, but all of us.”
—Joy DeGruy, author of Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome
“It is a very personal, readable, and accessible tool for my ever-evolving awakening to the other America, where a walk in the park with your wife on a perfect summer afternoon can turn ugly in an instant. I have grandsons who will grow up perceived as Black; this feels like required reading for me. Their journey will likely parallel Ernest’s journey, but if we get our head out of the sand, it will be a softer ride. Check it out.”
—Larry Andersen, producer of PBS documentary Divided We Fall
“How Black History Can Save Your Life by Ernest Crim III is a must-read for anyone needing a guidepost on how to navigate and awaken to their true power. Every Black child in America and parent should have this book as a staple in their home library! It is a powerful coming of age (auto)biography of the deep-seated hatred Black people face in America! Nothing is wrong with Black people… Something happened to Black people! Ase.”
—Philippe Matthews, host of The Philippe Matthews Show
“Most books of this type, I think, tend to either follow the cerebral or left-brain path of analysis and factual consideration, or the right-brain trail that focuses on the feelings and emotional content involved. As improbable as it might seem, Ernest finds a way to incorporate both sides without either detracting from the message carried by the other. In fact, he manages to have them complement and strengthen each other. As I began to read, I was prepared for a litany of the usual suspects and a set of arguments which are significant but ordinary. But Ernest found a way to constantly surprise and intrigue me.”
—Michael Rakowsky, House of Delegate member at The People
Preface, 2024
Introduction
Part I
Chapter 1…when I was told I was bad
Chapter 2…when I wanted my friends to sleep over
Chapter 3…when I wanted breakfast
Chapter 4…when I was on my way to the White House
Chapter 5…when he was told to go back
Chapter 6…when I was cute for a Black guy
Part II
Chapter 7…when I was acting white
Chapter 8…when I was driving while Black
Chapter 9…when Aaron taught me
Chapter 10…when I was first called nigger
Chapter 11…when Ghetto Bros and Big Booty Hoes partied
Chapter 12…when he changed his name from Gerald to Abdul
Chapter 13…when Jena 6 happened
Chapter 14…when Tupac was wrong
Part III
Chapter 15…when I noticed white-on-Black crime
Chapter 16…when it kept happening again, and again, and again
Chapter 17…when the hate was inherited
Chapter 18…when we had another Red Summer
Chapter 19…when I was faced with a hate crime
Epilogue
Acknowledgments
About the Author
Works Cited