The Rage of the Black Middle Class

"The Rage of the Black Middle Class" is a book by Ellis Closs, referenced by Hooks. Closs warns that the black middle class cannot expect to escape racism.

The Talented Tenth

"The Talented Tenth" was an essay written by W.E.B. Du Bois who believed that only one in ten blacks would succeed. Hooks references this work.

Class and Feminism

"Class and Feminism" is referenced by Hooks in her book. The book confronts classism within the feminist movement.

The Last Straw

"The Last Straw" is an essay by Rita Mae Brown. Brown describes the elements that create class and classism. Hooks uses this essay as reference material.

Kentucky

Bell Hooks was born and raised in rural Kentucky in a segregated black community. She drew from her experiences there in writing about the classism and racism that was prevalent.

Private Girl's College