I became obsessed with how slavery is remembered and reckoned with, with teaching myself all of the things I wish someone had taught me . . .
-- Clint Smith (Prologue)

Importance: In this passage from the prologue, Smith is introducing the reader to his reasons for writing How the Word Is Passed. He cites the removal of a Robert E. Lee statue in his New Orleans hometown as inspiration for educating himself about his country's and ancestors' history. This moment not only locates the text within Smith's personal experience, but suggests that How the Word Is Passed is both an educational tool for the reader and the documentation of Smith's personal studies and education.

Slavery's an institution. In Jefferson's lifetime it becomes a system.
-- David Thorson (Monticello Plantation)

Importance: Almost as soon as Smith begins his tour with David Thorson at the Monticello Plantation, he is struck by how David describes the history of chattel slavery in America. Smith notes that what...