A sophisticated treatment of the interplay between class and race that moves the discussion into rich, new areas. . . . A rewarding book.—Choice

A new and important story about the lost opportunities for interracial cooperation. . . . This solid and satisfying work is one of the few to examine the social foundations and political efforts of [African American] middle-class groups without romanticizing their achievements or lamenting their limitations.—Journal of American History

We have Janette Thomas Greenwood to thank for helping to initiate the discussion of postwar race and class relations, uncovering new information on the postwar black community, and suggesting the rich potential of the sources.—Journal of Social History

Greenwood tells Charlotte's complicated story well. Indeed, throughout her study she provides a wonderfully nuanced account of the politics, institution building, city development, culture, and society of the city. . . . Local history at its best.—American Historical Review

Janette Greenwood has written a fascinating and important study of class formation and its effects on race relations in a New South town. Her analysis of the values of the black 'better class' in this era has applicability far beyond Charlotte.—Paul Escott, Wake Forest University

An engaging portrait of postbellum southern race relations, [this book] provides much original evidence of interracial coalition, cooperation, and fluidity prior to the nadir of black disfranchisement and legal Jim Crow.—Raymond Gavins, Duke University