Very Early Issues of NAACP Magazine The Crisis, 1939-1947

[African American] [Civil Rights] Six early issues of The Crisis magazine, the official magazine of the NAACP, from 1939-1947. The Crisis was founded in 1910 by W. E. B. Du Bois, who edited early volumes of the magazine. It was originally subtitled "A Record of the Darker Races". Measuring 5.25" x 7.75". This archive includes April 1939, February 1942, October 1942, April 1943, March 1944, and January 1947. The Crisis is the official magazine of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), founded by W. E. B. Du Bois. The magazine is arguably the most widely read and influential periodical about race and social injustice in U.S. history. As a platform for the NAACP’s views, The Crises acted as a corrective force in the publishing field when it came to African American representation in the media. Therefore, much of the published content depicts both uplifting accounts of achievements by African Americans and uncensored reports of racial discrimination and violence. Issues feature updates on the the work of the NAACP and news from HBCUs around the country. The 1939 issue features stories on the poll tax as means of disenfranchisement, the music of black composer William Grant Still featured at the 1939 New York World's Fair, and tuberculosis among America's black population. February 1942 focuses on black men and women enlisted in the army, with 20 pages of photography. October 1942 features a short story by Chester Himes "Lunching at the Ritzmore" and a profile of Samuel J. Battle, the first African-American police sergeant, lieutenant, and parole commissioner. April 1943 includes an article on British imperialism in Africa and a feature on the most influential black women on the time. March 1944 features a photo spread on black soldiers learning to work with chemical weaponry and an article on actor Ira Aldridge, the first black actor to play Othello. The latest issue in this archive is from 1947 and features articles on artist Edward Brandford and Jamaica's journey to independence. This archive features articles on developments in civil rights legislation, desegregation, politics, Black employment and labor unions, poetry, art, and updates on the actions undertaken by NAACP branches across the country. Staplebound with one issue ex-libris stamped Boocock Library Yale University. All but one issue lacking wrappers. Spotting, foxing, and discoloration due to age throughout but all holding firmly and in clear, readable condition. Overall good condition. (Inventory #: 21183)