There are a number of reference guides to African-American newspapers and peridocials. From the first known publication, _Freedom's Journal_, published in New York City starting in 1827 to the present, there have been more than 3,500 African-American newspapers and peridocials. Preserving the record of these presses is crucial. Not only did these presses serve as a protest organ, but also documented normal black life, especially as it existed under segregation and Jim Crow laws. In many cases, these papers provide the only extant record of African American life in forgotten and remote towns. Unfortunately, only a small percentage are preserved on microfilm or in other formats. The record of these periodicals is the next most important level of information. _African-American Newspapers and Periodicals_ does an excellent job of documenting these newsapers and magazines. Given the dominance of majority points of view in mainstream publications and the low number of black journalists, the African American press is an essential voice for the black community. If African Americans do not tell their story, no one will. This reference work is the best starting point for learning more about these publications.
