The John Henry Myth

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Recommended: Analysis of a slave narrative

John Henry was born a slave in the 1840s or 1850s. He was one among a legion of African Americans freed from the Civil War; John Henry went to work rebuilding the Southern states whose territory had been severely damaged by the Civil War. The war granted equal civil and political rights on African Americans, sending hundreds of men into the workforce, in bad conditions and for poor wages. John Henry was hired as a steel driver for the C&O Railroad Company. The C&O 's new line was working efficiently, until Big Bend Mountain blocked its path. Then one day a salesman came along to the railroad site. He had a steam powered drill and said it could out drill any man. The men working on the railroad were upset that they may be replaced by a machine, so John Henry issued a challenge and put himself against this drill to see who could handle the job …show more content…

If the meaning behind the John Henry myth could no longer be practiced then people would not take pride in their and settle for less. What is most misunderstood about the John Henry myth is the cultural meaning between Caucasians and African Americans, but the overall meaning of the story to not let the machine completely take the place of human beings no matter the race. John Henry is a tale for all generations young and old. John Henry heroically faced death. He was conscious of his own fate and willingness to fulfill that fate at the total disregard of himself is a truly sacrificial and heroic act. The story of John Henry has the power to inspire and motivate in this day in age. The legend of John Henry has been persevered, because it is a reminder of a time in history that should not be forgotten. The tale of John Henry is a modern American myth that continues to be relevant to all audiences

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