How Long to Read Reconstruction in the Cane Fields

How Long Does it Take to Read Reconstruction in the Cane Fields?

It takes the average reader 4 hours and 22 minutes to read Reconstruction in the Cane Fields by John C. Rodrigue

Assuming a reading speed of 250 words per minute. Learn more

Description

In Reconstruction in the Cane Fields, John C. Rodrigue examines emancipation and the difficult transition from slavery to free labor in one enclave of the South -- the cane sugar region of southern Louisiana. In contrast to the various forms of sharecropping and tenancy that replaced slavery in the cotton South, wage labor dominated the sugar industry. Rodrigue demonstrates that the special geographical and environmental requirements of sugar production in Louisiana shaped the new labor arrangements. Ultimately, he argues, the particular demands of Louisiana sugar production accorded freedmen formidable bargaining power in the contest with planters over free labor. Rodrigue addresses many issues pivotal to all post-emancipation societies: How would labor be reorganized following slavery's demise? Who would wield decision-making power on the plantation? How were former slaves to secure the fruits of their own labor? He finds that while freedmen's working and living conditions in the postbellum sugar industry resembled the prewar status quo, they did not reflect a continuation of the powerlessness of slavery. Instead, freedmen converted their skills and knowledge of sugar production, their awareness of how easily they could disrupt the sugar plantation routine, and their political empowerment during Radical Reconstruction into leverage that they used in disputes with planters over wages, hours, and labor conditions. Thus, sugar planters, far from being omnipotent overlords who dictated terms to workers, were forced to adjust to an emerging labor market as well as to black political power. The labor arrangements particular to postbellum sugar plantations not only propelled the freedmen's political mobilization during Radical Reconstruction, Rodrigue shows, but also helped to sustain black political power -- at least for a few years -- beyond Reconstruction's demise in 1877. By showing that freedmen, under the proper circumstances, were willing to consent to wage labor and to work routines that strongly resembled those of slavery, Reconstruction in the Cane Fields offers a profound interpretation of how former slaves defined freedom in slavery's immediate aftermath. It will prove essential reading for all students of southern, African American, agricultural, and labor history.

How long is Reconstruction in the Cane Fields?

Reconstruction in the Cane Fields by John C. Rodrigue is 256 pages long, and a total of 65,536 words.

This makes it 86% the length of the average book. It also has 80% more words than the average book.

How Long Does it Take to Read Reconstruction in the Cane Fields Aloud?

The average oral reading speed is 183 words per minute. This means it takes 5 hours and 58 minutes to read Reconstruction in the Cane Fields aloud.

What Reading Level is Reconstruction in the Cane Fields?

Reconstruction in the Cane Fields is suitable for students ages 12 and up.

Note that there may be other factors that effect this rating besides length that are not factored in on this page. This may include things like complex language or sensitive topics not suitable for students of certain ages.

When deciding what to show young students always use your best judgement and consult a professional.

Where Can I Buy Reconstruction in the Cane Fields?

Reconstruction in the Cane Fields by John C. Rodrigue is sold by several retailers and bookshops. However, Read Time works with Amazon to provide an easier way to purchase books.

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