Within the walls of Elegant Fashion, beauty and ugliness share the same applause in this powerful story of intrigue, deception and shame. Empowered by her inheritance, Emma challenges the male dominance that continues to rule the world of finance, greed and power. But there is one man whose arrogance excites her imagination, weakens her self-confidence, and overwhelms her emotions. She is caught in the crossfire between family, power, money, secrets and lies, all of which ultimately impacts and releases Shades of Elegance.

Few individuals have had as great an impact on the law--both its practice and its history--as A. Leon Higginbotham, Jr. A winner of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor, he has distinguished himself over the decades both as a professor at Yale, the University of Pennsylvania, and Harvard, and as a judge on the United States Court of Appeals. But Judge Higginbotham is perhaps best known as an authority on racism in America: not the least important achievement of his long career has been In the Matter of Color, the first volume in a monumental history of race and the American legal process. Published in 1978, this brilliant book has been hailed as the definitive account of racism, slavery, and the law in colonial America. Now, after twenty years, comes the long-awaited sequel. In Shades of Freedom, Higginbotham provides a magisterial account of the interaction between the law and racial oppression in America from colonial times to the present, demonstrating how the one agent that should have guaranteed equal treatment before the law--the judicial system--instead played a dominant role in enforcing the inferior position of blacks. The issue of racial inferiority is central to this volume, as Higginbotham documents how early white perceptions of black inferiority slowly became codified into law. Perhaps the most powerful and insightful writing centers on a pair of famous Supreme Court cases, which Higginbotham uses to portray race relations at two vital moments in our history. The Dred Scott decision of 1857 declared that a slave who had escaped to free territory must be returned to his slave owner. Chief Justice Roger Taney, in his notorious opinion for the majority, stated that blacks were "so inferior that they had no right which the white man was bound to respect." For Higginbotham, Taney's decision reflects the extreme state that race relations had reached just before the Civil War. And after the War and Reconstruction, Higginbotham reveals, the Courts showed a pervasive reluctance (if not hostility) toward the goal of full and equal justice for African Americans, and this was particularly true of the Supreme Court. And in the Plessy v. Ferguson decision, which Higginbotham terms "one of the most catastrophic racial decisions ever rendered," the Court held that full equality--in schooling or housing, for instance--was unnecessary as long as there were "separate but equal" facilities. Higginbotham also documents the eloquent voices that opposed the openly racist workings of the judicial system, from Reconstruction Congressman John R. Lynch to Supreme Court Justice John Marshall Harlan to W. E. B. Du Bois, and he shows that, ironically, it was the conservative Supreme Court of the 1930s that began the attack on school segregation, and overturned the convictions of African Americans in the famous Scottsboro case. But today racial bias still dominates the nation, Higginbotham concludes, as he shows how in six recent court cases the public perception of black inferiority continues to persist. In Shades of Freedom, a noted scholar and celebrated jurist offers a work of magnificent scope, insight, and passion. Ranging from the earliest colonial times to the present, it is a superb work of history--and a mirror to the American soul.

Unlock the secrets of the dyeing trade with Thomas Packer's insightful manual, "The Dyer’s Guide." This essential resource takes you on a colorful journey through the art and science of dyeing textiles, offering practical knowledge and techniques for both beginners and seasoned dyers. As Packer shares his expertise, you might ask yourself: How can a simple dye transform not just fabric, but the entire textile industry? This guide reveals the hidden potential of colors and their impact on design and craftsmanship. But here's the twist that will pique your interest: What if the hues you choose could elevate your work to new heights? With detailed instructions and vivid illustrations, *The Dyer’s Guide* empowers you to experiment with a variety of dyes and techniques, unlocking a world of creative possibilities. Rich in practical tips and historical context, this book is a treasure trove for anyone passionate about textile arts. Packer's clear, engaging writing style makes complex concepts accessible, ensuring you gain confidence as you navigate the vibrant realm of dyeing. Are you ready to immerse yourself in the colorful world of dyeing? This isn't just a guide; it's an invitation to explore the artistry of color and texture, transforming your textiles into masterpieces. Discover the invaluable knowledge within "The Dyer’s Guide." Will you take the first step in mastering the art of dyeing? Purchase "The Dyer’s Guide" now, and let your creativity flow through every vibrant hue!