Marcus Anthony Allen, North Carolina A&T State University, will discuss his paper "The Black Saver Paradigm: Understanding Black Capitalism in 19th Century Baltimore."

Author's abstract for the seminar paper:

This paper, based on my dissertation, “Cautiously Capitalistic:  Black Economic Agency at the Savings Bank of Baltimore, 1850-1900,” examines the economic realities of three African American men during the latter half of the 19^th century.  These three men were among over 1000 African Americans whose economic activity was studied through their savings activity at the white-owned Savings Bank of Baltimore. 

The savings accounts were studied by three different year groupings:  1850-1865, 1865-1880, and 1880-1912, and the accounts were coded and analyzed according to their activity.  Using three different exemplary men, I argue that  there were many paths to economic success for African Americans in antebellum and postbellum America.​

The seminar is open to the public and is based on a paper that is circulated in advance. Those planning to attend are encouraged to read the paper before coming to the seminar. Copies may be obtained by emailing Carol Lockman, clockman@Hagley.org.

Reception at 6 p.m., seminar begins promptly at 6:30 p.m. in the Copeland Room of Hagley’s library building.

See more about our Research Seminar series here.

Image: Hagley Digital Archives.