Darkology

Rae Lynn Barnes's 'Darkology' examines how blackface minstrelsy became a foundational American entertainment form that shaped music, comedy, and politics from the 19th through the 20th centuries.

The book traces institutionalization of these practices—in schools, the military, civic clubs, and federal programs—and explains how catchy songs and routines taught white supremacy across generations.

Barnes connects historical spectacle and hoax-driven media practices (exemplified by P.T.

Barnum) to modern political showmanship and racist tropes.

She also foregrounds Black resistance, profiling figures and movements that fought to remove minstrelsy from public life and reclaim dignified representation.

Ultimately, the book argues that confronting this censored cultural past is essential to understanding and strengthening American democracy.