A Madman's Will: John Randolph, 400 Slaves, and the Mirage of Freedom.

"A Madman's Will: John Randolph, 400 Slaves, and the Mirage of Freedom" by Gregory May is a book that provides a nuanced understanding of John Randolph of Roanoke, a colorful and enigmatic politician of the early nineteenth century. The book focuses on Randolph's desire to liberate his enslaved laborers and grant them land for economic self-sufficiency. However, due to white greed, racism, and indifference, the process of emancipation was delayed and undermined. The book also explores the legal disputes and the lived experiences of the enslaved people involved. May's narrative sheds light on the complexities of ante-bellum slavery and the limitations placed on Black freedom. [Extracted from the article]