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Billions Quote by Ishmael Reed

“Joel Chandler Harris, who created a multi billion dollar industry, everything from his books, to Disney's "Song of the South" based upon the Uncle Remus stories. He got his start by transcribing the stories of slave Informants. I'm sure that none them got a dime.” quote by Ishmael Reed
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“Joel Chandler Harris, who created a multi billion dollar industry, everything from his books, to Disney's "Song of the South" based upon the Uncle Remus stories. He got his start by transcribing the stories of slave Informants. I'm sure that none them got a dime.”

Ishmael Reed

About This Quote

The creator profited massively from stories originally told by enslaved people, yet those original storytellers received none of the wealth.

In simple terms: Exploitation of enslaved voices for profit.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and compensate original sources.

Themes

justice exploitation history

Mood

critical thought‑provoking

Type

analytical historical

When to use this quote

  • publishing
  • film adaptations
  • heritage tourism
  • educational curricula

Key Concepts

cultural appropriation economic inequality

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who truly owns cultural narratives?
  • How can we rectify historical injustices?
A Different Perspective

Complex legacy of cultural works can obscure exploitation.

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