Uncovering Hidden Legacies: The Story of Free People of Color in America (Podcast)

In this illuminating episode, we journey into a little-known yet deeply impactful chapter of American history—the lives and legacies of Free People of Color before the Civil War.

Joined by acclaimed professional genealogist Ja’el Gordon, we explore the origins, social status, and cultural contributions of Free People of Color in the United States. With historical expertise and personal insight, Ja’el reveals how this community navigated freedom in a nation built on enslavement—and why their stories are essential to understanding the broader American experience.

Discover how Free People of Color shaped early American society, challenged racial boundaries, and left behind legacies that continue to resonate today. This episode offers more than a history lesson—it’s a call to remember, to honor, and to reclaim the narratives too often erased.

🧭 What You’ll Learn:

Who were the Free People of Color?

How did they live, work, and resist during a time of systemic oppression?

Why is their history vital to the full story of America?

Whether you’re a student of history, a genealogist, or someone passionate about untold stories, this episode invites you to expand your understanding of freedom, identity, and resilience in American history.