Emmett D. Carson has compiled a concise overview of more than two hundred years of black philanthropy in this nation, from its earliest roots in colonial America to the present. This work discusses some of the key developments, events, and institutions in this rich history and sheds light on the shape and thrust of black philanthropy today through an examination of some of the historical, philosophical, and social forces that have given rise to it. The large role played by church and social organizations in the black community is described in detail.