Picture a storyteller who wields wit like a sword, slicing through myths to reveal the unfiltered truth of America’s past—meet Michael Harriot! This award-winning journalist, poet, and cultural critic has become a commanding voice on race, politics, and history, blending sharp humor with fearless commentary. His New York Times bestseller, Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America, flips the script on traditional narratives, making him a must-read for anyone craving a fresh perspective.
From his biting columns at The Root to his viral social media threads, Harriot’s work sparks conversations that resonate from classrooms to cable news. With a knack for making history accessible and engaging, he’s not just a writer—he’s a cultural force. Let’s dive into the life, works, and impact of this literary trailblazer.
The Making of Michael Harriot
Born on October 7, 1972, in Hartsville, South Carolina, Michael Harriot grew up in a close-knit community, initially homeschooled before graduating from Hartsville High School. His thirst for knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he earned degrees in mass communications and history, followed by a master’s in macroeconomics and international business from Florida State University. These diverse fields shaped his unique lens, blending data-driven analysis with storytelling. Early in his career, Harriot juggled roles as a corn harvester, chef, and nightclub owner, but writing was his true calling. By age 11, he was crafting manuscripts, setting the stage for a prolific career.
Harriot’s big break came with journalism, covering major events like Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign and the Olympics for The Washington Post. His move to Birmingham, Alabama, solidified his base, where he began weaving his sharp insights into columns for The Root, establishing himself as a cultural critic with a razor-sharp pen.
Michael Harriot’s Unforgettable Stories
Harriot’s writing is a masterclass in blending humor, history, and hard truths. His 2023 bestseller, Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America, reexamines the nation’s past through a Black lens, debunking myths with wit and rigor. Adopted by over a dozen HBCUs, it’s a staple in curricula for its vivid storytelling and unflinching honesty. His 2008 novel, The Situation in South Carolina, tackles police brutality and community resilience, showcasing his ability to weave fiction with social commentary.
As a columnist for The Root and theGrio, Harriot dissects race and politics with acerbic flair, earning accolades from the National Association of Black Journalists and an Emmy nomination. His podcast, Drapetomaniax: Unshackled History, brings untold Black stories to life, while his spoken word poetry, like “My Mama Is So Black,” captivates audiences nationwide. Harriot’s style—bold, conversational, and unapologetic—makes complex issues relatable, whether he’s explaining “woke” on CNN or coining “invited to the cookout” on social media.
His upcoming book, Wypipology: A More Critical Race Theory, promises a humorous yet incisive look at whiteness, blending memoir and anthropology. Harriot’s versatility shines across genres, but his core mission remains: to challenge narratives and amplify Black voices.
Why Michael Harriot Matters
Michael Harriot’s impact is seismic. His work has reshaped how we teach and talk about history, with Black AF History becoming a cornerstone in academic settings. By contextualizing race through economics and history, he’s influenced everyone from policymakers to pop culture icons like Dave Chappelle and Trevor Noah. His fearless critiques, like calling out Pete Buttigieg in a viral 2019 article, spark national debates, proving his pen is mightier than most.
Harriot’s legacy lies in his ability to make truth accessible. His social media threads, shared by millions, turn history lessons into viral moments, while his journalism holds power to account. For readers, he’s a guide through America’s complexities, offering clarity with a side of humor.
- Born: October 7, 1972, Hartsville, South Carolina
- Key Works: Black AF History, The Situation in South Carolina, Wypipology (forthcoming)
- Awards: National Association of Black Journalists Awards, Emmy nomination, NAACP Image Award nominations
Snag Black AF History and dive into Michael Harriot’s unapologetic, game-changing storytelling! You’ll laugh, learn, and maybe even rethink everything you thought you knew about America.