Savings and Trust

In the aftermath of the Civil War, the Freedman's Bank emerged as a beacon of hope for former slaves seeking economic independence, but it tragically collapsed just nine years later, betraying the trust of its depositors. Historian Justene Hill Edwards provides a thorough exploration of the bank's rise and downfall, revealing how its failure was driven by the actions of white financiers rather than its Black leaders and depositors. This engaging account highlights key figures in this pivotal moment of American history and sheds light on the enduring roots of racial economic inequality in the United States.