In 'The Breakthrough', Gwen Ifill chronicles the extraordinary journey of pivotal African American leaders who reshaped politics and society in the United States. Through gripping narratives and personal accounts, she unveils their struggles, triumphs, and the powerful impact they had on future generations. Ifill masterfully illustrates the intersections of race, ambition, and resilience against the backdrop of a country undergoing significant transformation. This compelling exploration raises profound questions about identity, power, and the meaning of success. Can the voices of the past guide us to a more equitable future?
By Gwen Ifill
Published: 2009
""Change is not merely a possibility; it's a powerful reality waiting to be embraced. The breakthroughs we seek often lie just beyond the comfort of our fears.""
In The Breakthrough, veteran journalist Gwen Ifill surveys the American political landscape, shedding new light on the impact of Barack Obama’s stunning presidential victory and introducing the emerging young African American politicians forging a bold new path to political power. Ifill argues that the Black political structure formed during the Civil Rights movement is giving way to a generation of men and women who are the direct beneficiaries of the struggles of the 1960s. She offers incisive, detailed profiles of such prominent leaders as Newark Mayor Cory Booker, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, and U.S. Congressman Artur Davis of Alabama (all interviewed for this book), and also covers numerous up-and-coming figures from across the nation. Drawing on exclusive interviews with power brokers such as President Obama, former Secretary of State Colin Powell, Vernon Jordan, the Reverend Jesse Jackson, his son Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr., and many others, as well as her own razor-sharp observations and analysis of such issues as generational conflict, the race/ gender clash, and the "black enough" conundrum, Ifill shows why this is a pivotal moment in American history. The Breakthrough is a remarkable look at contemporary politics and an essential foundation for understanding the future of American democracy in the age of Obama.
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“"Change is not merely a possibility; it's a powerful reality waiting to be embraced. The breakthroughs we seek often lie just beyond the comfort of our fears."”
The Breakthrough
By Gwen Ifill
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Gwen Ifill was a distinguished American journalist, author, and television newscaster, known for her groundbreaking work in political reporting and as the first African American woman to host a major political news program. Ifill authored the critically acclaimed book 'The Breakthrough: Politics and Race in the Age of Obama,' where she provided insightful analysis on the intersection of race and politics in contemporary America. Her writing style was characterized by a thoughtful and accessible approach, combining keen observation with a powerful narrative voice. Ifill was a respected figure in journalism, admired for her integrity, depth of knowledge, and commitment to presenting complex issues clearly and fairly.
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