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Cover of The American Missionary — Volume 39, No. 02, February, 1885

The American Missionary — Volume 39, No. 02, February, 1885

Written by Various

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About this book

"The American Missionary — Volume 39, No. 02, February, 1885" by Various is a historical periodical written in the late 19th century. This publication is associated with the American Missionary Association and focuses on topics related to missionary work, education, and social issues pertinent to African American and Native American communities during this period. The content highlights the ongoing efforts to improve the living conditions and educational opportunities for these groups post-emancipation. At the start of the issue, the editors address pressing topics such as financial challenges faced by missionary efforts, the importance of education and healthcare for newly freed individuals, and the significant role that missionaries play in advancing social justice. The editorial comments on the harsh realities of opposition faced by those teaching in predominantly African American schools, underscoring the absurdity and sinfulness of prejudice against educators. The opening also emphasizes the necessity of industrial education and a sanitary view of learning, aiming to uplift marginalized communities by promoting skills that ensure their health and self-sufficiency.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The American Missionary — Volume 39, No. 02, February, 1885, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 4 hours
  • advanced
  • Informative
  • Advocacy
  • Serious

The American Missionary — Volume 39, No. 02, February, 1885 is a historical periodical from the late 19th century, published by the American Missionary Association. It serves as a vital document illuminating the post-emancipation efforts to uplift African American and Native American communities through education, healthcare, and social reform. The issue addresses critical financial challenges, underscores the importance of both academic and industrial education, and advocates for improved living conditions for marginalized groups. Editorials forcefully denounce racial prejudice faced by educators and emphasize the missionary's role in advancing social justice, aiming to foster health and self-sufficiency within these communities.

“The sinfulness of prejudice against educators in predominantly African American schools stands as an absurd and painful reality that we must confront.”

Key themes

The Power of Education and Self-Sufficiency
This theme is central to the AMA's mission, advocating for both academic and industrial education as the primary means for African American and Native American communities to achieve independence, economic stability, and social advancement. It emphasizes acquiring practical skills alongside literacy and moral instruction.
Social Justice and Racial Equality
The periodical strongly addresses the injustices of racial prejudice and advocates for the rights and equitable treatment of African American and Native American populations. It portrays missionary work as an active pursuit of social justice, challenging discriminatory practices and attitudes prevalent in the late 19th century.
Challenges of Missionary Work and Philanthropy
This theme highlights the practical difficulties encountered by the AMA, including persistent financial shortages, logistical complexities of operating in remote or hostile areas, and the direct opposition from prejudiced elements within society. It also underscores the reliance on public and philanthropic support to sustain these efforts.

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How does 'The American Missionary' reflect the prevailing social and racial attitudes of the late 19th century, both progressive and problematic?

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