Chapter 1, Forerunner: Vernon Johns, Summary and Analysis

Parting the Waters is a historical look at the Civil Rights Movement from 1954 through 1963, with an emphasis on Martin Luther King Jr.'s role. Taylor Branch has given his readers a look at King the man, from his family history nd childhood, to his role as a civil rights leader through the March on Washington. Branch includes in his tome a look at other organizations that sprang into existence, from King's work with both the MIA and the SCLC, as well as the work of other leaders who fashioned their techniques on King's past victories. Parting the Waters is an informative, insightful look at an important historical figure and an important piece of American history that is sure to please even the most novice historian.

The First Baptist (Negro) Church of Montgomery, Alabama was formed...