‘Invisible Generals’ Chronicles Little-Known History of 1st Black U.S. Generals
Ask students: Who are the central figures in the book "Invisible Generals"? What is West Point, and what is its history as part of the U.S. military?
A new book explores and honors the legacy of two exceptional American veterans whose contributions have gone largely unknown, until now. In “Invisible Generals,” author Doug Melville recounts his family history and tells the barrier-breaking stories of the country’s first Black generals. He joins Geoff Bennett to discuss the book and what inspired him to write it.
For a transcript, click here.
Discussion Questions
- Who are the central figures in the book "Invisible Generals"?
- What is West Point, and what is its history as part of the U.S. military?
- Where is West Point?
- When did Benjamin O. Davis Jr. attend West Point?
- Why did FDR consult Benjamin O. Davis Sr.?
Focus Questions
What inspired Doug Melville to write "Invisible Generals: Rediscovering Family Legacy, and a Quest to Honor America's First Black Generals"?
Media Literacy: Why do you think NewsHour decided to feature this book?
Extension Activity
Discuss as a class: What challenges did Benjamin O. Davis Jr. face during his time at West Point? Do you think officers in training experience anything similar today? What do you think has changed, and what has stayed the same?
You can also watch the Student Reporting Labs video below about students facing racism in Detroit, including in settings such as schools.
Republished with permission from PBS NewsHour Classroom.
PBS NewsHour Classroom helps teachers and students identify the who, what, where and why-it-matters of the major national and international news stories. The site combines the best of NewsHour's reliable, trustworthy news program with lesson plans developed specifically for... See More
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