The Untold Story of Bridget Mason - (First But Forgotten) by Artika R Tyner

About the Book

"You may have heard about Dred Scott's case to gain his freedom from enslavement. But just a year before the Supreme Court decision in Scott's case, Bridget "Biddy" Mason won her freedom in a California court--and then went on to become the wealthiest Black woman in Los Angeles. With key biographical information and related historical events, this Capstone Captivate book uncovers Mason's story of attaining her freedom, becoming an entrepreneur, and serving her community. Dive into the First but Forgotten series to read rarely told stories from history"--

Book Synopsis

You may have heard about Dred Scott's case to gain his freedom from enslavement. But just a year before the Supreme Court decision in Scott's case, Bridget "Biddy" Mason won her freedom in a California court--and then went on to become the wealthiest Black woman in Los Angeles. With key biographical information and related historical events, this Capstone Captivate book uncovers Mason's story of attaining her freedom, becoming an entrepreneur, and serving her community. Dive into the First but Forgotten series to read rarely told stories from history.

Review Quotes

Before Cesar Chavez organized farm workers, A. Philip Randolph was instrumental in unionizing Pullman workers. One year before the Dred Scott decision, a slave in California was able to obtain her freedom. Jack Johnson preceded Joe Louis as a successful Black boxer and Mary ­Golda Ross was the first Indigenous woman to receive a degree in aeronautical engineering and then work for NASA. These brief biographies introduce significant leaders who were overshadowed by those who came later. The focus is primarily on their respective accomplishments with little mention of personal lives. However, their achievements, often against the odds, paved the way for the accomplishments of others. Bridget Mason's story is ­especially inspiring as she employed her freedom and midwifery skills to obtain wealth for herself and her family. Photographs accompany the texts. The narratives are readable and informative, and they provide stories about forgotten ­pioneers. ­VERDICT There is little out there on these significant ­trailblazers and these titles should be added to ­collections.--Margaret Nunes, formerly Gwinnet County PL, GA "School Library Journal"