The Significance of the Jefferson Davis Allusion in "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry"

The allusion to Jefferson Davis in the novel "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" plays a significant role in reflecting the societal norms and attitudes prevalent in Cassie's county during the 1930s. By referencing Jefferson Davis, the only president of the Confederate States of America, the author, Mildred D. Taylor, provides insight into the deep-rooted influence of the Confederacy in the region.

During the time period in which the novel is set, Mississippi was grappling with the aftermath of the Civil War and the Reconstruction era. The legacy of the Confederacy, with its values of white supremacy and racial segregation, continued to shape the social fabric of the South, including Cassie's county. The decision to name the white school after Jefferson Davis serves as a stark reminder of this enduring influence.

Jefferson Davis symbolizes the ideals of Southern nationalism and the defense of slavery as an institution. By associating the school with his name, it demonstrates the community's adherence to those beliefs and a validation of the Confederate principles. This choice of namesake reinforces the societal hierarchy that places African Americans like Cassie and her family at a disadvantage.

In essence, the allusion to Jefferson Davis in "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" highlights the persistent presence of the Confederacy's values and the challenges faced by African Americans in the South. It serves as a powerful commentary on the ongoing struggle for civil rights and equality, portraying the racial dynamics and inequalities that characterized the region during that period.