Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America

This book, written for all races, is a historical exploration of Black Americans' tangled hair roots. A chronological look at the culture & politics behind the ever-changing state of Black hair from 15th-century Africa to the present-day U.S., the book ties the personal to the political & the popular. It covers the different chemical & natural treatments to straighten hair; how the Afro evolved from militant style to mainstream fashion trend; & what prompted the creation of the Jheri curl & its fall from grace. Major figures in the history of Black hair are presented, from early entrepreneurs Annie Turnbo Malone & Madam C.J. Walker to unintended hair heroes like Angela Davis & Bob Marley. Stylists, celebrities & critics weigh in on the issues of Black hair.Ayana D. Byrd is the author of 'Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America', published 2006 under ISBN 9780756769826 and ISBN 0756769825.