The Atlantic Magazine - December 2023

In this issue

THE ANNOTATED FREDERICK DOUGLASS
In 1866, the famous abolitionist laid out his vision for radically reshaping America in the pages of The Atlantic.
Introduction and annotations
by David W. Blight

The Archive of Emancipation
In the papers of the Freedmen’s Bureau, I found the hopes and disappointments of a people on the cusp of freedom—including my own family’s.
By Lonnie G. Bunch III

Kennedy and the Lost Cause
In his 1956 book, Profiles in Courage, the future president promoted the southern mythology of Reconstruction. One Massachusetts grandmother wasn’t having it.
By Jordan Virtue

The Questions That Most Need Asking

“Reconstruction,” by Frederick Douglass, appeared in the December 1866 issue of this magazine. It was the most important article that The Atlantic published in the immediate postwar era. It was also, for its time, unusually concise, coming in at a mere 2,703 words.

4 mins

The Revolution Never Ended

The federal government abandoned Reconstruction in 1877, but Black people didn't give up on the moment's promise.

10+ mins

The Atlantic and Reconstruction

What we got wrong in 1901

5 mins

The Archive of Emancipation

In the papers of the Freedmen's Bureau, I found the hopes and disappointments of a people on the cusp of freedom-including my own family's.

10+ mins

The Annotated Frederick Douglass

In 1866, the famous abolitionist laid out his vision for radically reshaping America in the pages of The Atlantic.

10+ mins

The Years of Jubilee

In 1871, the choir of the struggling Fisk University engaged in a gambit to save the school: It decided to go on a singing tour of America. The choir achieved more than its members could have imagined.

10+ mins

The Men Who Started the War

John Brown and the Secret Six-the abolitionists who funded the raid on Harpers Ferryconfronted a question as old as America: When is violence justified?

10+ mins

Kennedy and the Lost Cause

In his 1956 book, Profiles in Courage, the future president promoted the southern mythology of Reconstruction. One Massachusetts grandmother wasn't having it.

10+ mins

The Black Roots of American Education

How freedpeople and their advocates persuaded the nation to embrace public schooling for all

10+ mins

A Traitor to the Traitors

The Confederate general James Longstreet became a champion of Reconstruction. Why?

10+ mins

Read all stories from The Atlantic

The Atlantic Magazine Description:

The Atlantic is a prestigious magazine that has been at the forefront of American intellectual and cultural discourse for over 160 years. Founded in 1857, it has a long and distinguished history of publishing thought-provoking and influential articles.

With a focus on politics, society, culture, and the arts, The Atlantic covers a wide range of topics through in-depth features, essays, and investigative journalism. It delves into pressing issues shaping our world, providing insightful analysis and diverse perspectives on current events, social trends, and political developments.

The magazine has a reputation for publishing impactful long-form journalism that tackles complex subjects with nuance and depth. It explores key issues such as social justice, climate change, technology, international relations, and the intersection of politics and culture. The Atlantic also features profiles of prominent individuals and thought leaders, offering readers a glimpse into their lives and ideas.

In addition to its thought-provoking content, The Atlantic showcases literary fiction and poetry, celebrating the art of storytelling and the power of language. It consistently strives to foster intellectual curiosity and engage readers with rigorous reporting, engaging narratives, and well-crafted prose.

Through its rich history and commitment to high-quality journalism, The Atlantic has earned a reputation as a magazine that challenges conventions sparks conversations, and shapes the national discourse. It remains an essential source of information and ideas for those seeking a deeper understanding of the world we live in.

Subscribe to The Atlantic and join a community of engaged readers who value thoughtful analysis, compelling storytelling, and the pursuit of knowledge. Experience the impact of one of America's most influential magazines as it continues to shape the conversation on the issues that matter most.