Marquise de Brinvilliers Marie-Madeleine-Marguerite d’Aubray, (1630 – July 17, 1676) was a French serial killer who poisoned her father, brother, and two sisters in order to inherit their property. She was assisted by her lover, Army Captain Godin de Sainte-Croix.

The following is an excerpt from a fictionalized account of her crimes, confession and punishment by the African Frankophone author, Alexandre Dumas, Pere. Here he tells of the “questioning” of the Marquise following her confession and sentencing. The use of the “water cure” is certainly used as a form of torture, as she has already confessed to her crimes before being tortured. By the way, this is the same author who wrote “The Three Musketeers” and “The Count of Monte Cristo.”

(more…)

What is a Pig?

“A low natured beast that has no regard for law, justice, or the rights of people; a creature that bites the hand that feeds it; a foul, depraved, traducer, usually found masquerading as the victim of an unprovoked attack”

So goes the copy to one of the many pieces reproduced in this impressive book. While those words may sound harsh, such were the times, and such was the attitude of the police as well. The casualties prove it. Black Panther, The Revolutionary Art of Emory Douglas is a must have publication for anyone interested Black artists and the intersection between black art and culture. It brings to light as well the ability of graphic design to serve a higher purpose than commerce, to actually affect people’s lives and move beyond the bounds of commercialism.

(more…)

It’s been a long time coming, but it’s finally ready for prime time. “Blakfacts Volume 1” is a compendium of notable facts in the history of the African diaspora. You’ll encounter heroes and sheroes; warriors and peacemakers; presidents and popes. In fact there’s no telling what kind of folks you’ll encounter.

This book is for young and old! You’ll learn about things your teacher never told you in school. They say, “those who do not know their history are destined to repeat it!” This fully illustrated volume is the first in a series of books which will broaden the horizons of its readers. If you thought you knew something about African American history, think again. (more…)