First published 2013
William Sheppard stands before another packed auditorium, ready to tell Americans about his life in the Belgian Congo. For over two decades, this African American missionary has defied the segregation of his era by establishing and operating a mission run entirely by black Americans in central Africa. Sheppard wears many hats: anthropologist studying local cultures, photographer documenting daily life, big-game hunter navigating dangerous terrain, and art collector preserving African heritage. His travels take him back and forth between continents as he builds support for his work. But Sheppard discovers something that changes everything. He witnesses the brutal atrocities committed under King Leopold's rule and realizes he must act. His speaking tours become a platform for exposing these horrors to American audiences. Sheppard transforms from missionary to activist, using his unique position and growing reputation as the "Black Livingstone" to challenge Belgian colonial power. His courage and persistence help break Belgium's stranglehold on the Congo, proving that one person's determination can reshape history.
Genres: biography, 20th-century, african-american, african-literature, anthropology, biographical-fiction, 19th-century, african-american-historical-fiction
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: activist, historical-figure, whistleblower
Setting: African, Belgian Congo, Central Africa, Congo
Period: 19th Century, 20th Century
144 pages · Paperback · Santa Fe Writer's Project
Content warnings: colonialism, racism, violence