History of Africa

Is John Henry black or white?

The ballad of John Henry originated among black American railroad workers between 1860 and 1873, and refers to several workers who were famous for their skill and strength. The most well-known version depicts John Henry as an African-American steel-driver who worked on the C&O Railroad in West Virginia. He represents the struggle of African Americans against oppression, and his story is often told to celebrate African-American culture.