James Farmer Jr.: The Great Debater (Lexington Studies in Political Communication)

"James Farmer Jr.: The Great Debater" serves as both a profound biographical study and an insightful exploration into the roots of the American Civil Rights Movement. This compelling book, published on April 13, 2017, delves into the life of James Farmer Jr., tracing his development from a skilled young debater at a historically Black college in Marshall, Texas, to a pivotal civil rights leader who pioneered non-violent protest strategies. Farmer's intellectual prowess and strategic debates, including those against figures like Malcolm X, laid the groundwork for what would become seminal acts of resistance, such as the first non-violent sit-in against segregation in Chicago in 1942. Authored by Ben Voth, the narrative not only revisits historical milestones but also connects them with contemporary movements like Black Lives Matter, emphasizing the enduring relevance of Farmer's methods. Ideal for middle-school readers, this book is a vital resource for understanding the dynamics of racial justice and the power of effective communication in advocacy.