Coleman Young And Detroit Politics: From Social Activist to Power Broker : Book Review

"Coleman Young and Detroit Politics" by Wilbur C. Rich offers a deep dive into the life and political career of Coleman A. Young, a remarkable figure who served as the mayor of Detroit for an impressive twenty-year period. Rich's book provides a comprehensive analysis of Young's journey to power, his distinctive leadership style, and the profound impact he had on the city of Detroit. Through meticulous research and personal interviews, the author sheds light on the challenges Young faced as he worked to improve the lives of African Americans and combat racial inequality in a predominantly white city.

A notable strength of this book is its exploration of Young's political tactics, as it delves into the strategies he used to navigate the complexities of Detroit's racial tensions and his relationship with the white suburban population. Rich provides a thorough analysis of the political maneuvers employed by Young to maintain his hold on power. He also takes a close look at the controversies surrounding Young's tenure, including allegations of corruption and his sometimes confrontational approach to dealing with critics.

Additionally, "Coleman Young and Detroit Politics" examines the lasting impact of Young's administration on the city. Rich provides a detailed account of the economic, social, and racial issues that plagued Detroit during Young's time in office and evaluates the effectiveness of his policies in addressing these challenges. The book presents a balanced view of Young's legacy, acknowledging both the positive changes he brought to the city and the persistent problems that remained after his departure.

In summary, "Coleman Young and Detroit Politics" is a highly informative and thought-provoking book that offers a comprehensive exploration of the life and political career of Coleman A. Young. Rich's balanced analysis makes this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in urban politics, civil rights, or the history of Detroit.

The book "Coleman Young and Detroit Politics" by Wilbur C. Rich has received a mix of reviews, reflecting the varying opinions of readers. Overall, the book has been lauded for its comprehensive exploration of Coleman Young's political career, while some readers have criticized it for lacking objectivity.

Many reviewers appreciate the depth of research and insight provided by author Wilbur C. Rich. They commend the book for delving into the complex and often controversial political career of Coleman Young, who was the first African American mayor of Detroit. Readers find the historical context and analysis presented in the book to be informative, and believe it offers a valuable resource for understanding the political landscape of Detroit during Young's tenure.

However, some reviewers express disappointment with what they perceive as a lack of objectivity in the book. They argue that Rich's analysis is biased in favor of Young, portraying him in an overly positive light and downplaying any negative aspects of his administration. These readers believe that a more balanced approach would have provided a more accurate portrayal of Young's legacy.

Several reviewers highlight the book's focus on the racial dynamics of Detroit politics. They appreciate how Rich explores the challenges and achievements faced by Young as an African American leader in a predominantly African American city. This aspect of the book resonates with readers who want to understand the impact of race on urban politics.

While many readers find the book to be well-researched and informative, some critics feel that it lacks an engaging storytelling style. They find the writing to be dry and academic, which may make it less accessible to a general audience. These readers suggest that the book could benefit from a more captivating narrative to appeal to a wider range of readers.

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