Black Man in the White House by E. Frederic Morrow

An outstanding contribution to the literature of African-American history, Black Man in the White House is the first-person account of E. Frederic Morrow, the first African-American to reach an executive position in the White House. He served with distinction as Administrative Officer for Special Projects under President Dwight D. Eisenhower from 1955-61. Originally published in 1963, Morrow's recollections are masterfully written, colorful, and filled with the day-to-day intrigue and office politics associated with the most powerful executive office in the world. This book is especially important in the story of the civil rights struggle because Morrow was instrumental in gently pushing the ever-cautious president into an acceptance of the plight of black Americans and into meeting with leaders such as Dr. Martin Luther King. In the book Morrow discusses his triumphs and disappointments with candor, wit, and an unswerving devotion to the America he believed in. Black Man in the White House is an excellent choice for Black History Month studies. This annotated edition of the book features extensive end notes to aid students and a touching afterword essay written by journalist Les Smith.