African American Management History

In this second edition of African American Management History: Insights on Gaining a Cooperative Advantage, authors Leon C. Prieto and Simone T. A. Phipps dive deep into the powerful legacy of African American management thought. With a new foreword by Stuart Crainer, Co-founder of Thinkers50, this edition builds on its groundbreaking predecessor by exploring rich narratives of Black business pioneers and the enduring relevance of African philosophies like Ubuntu in today's corporate landscape.

New chapters include "Cooperative Enterprises Matter: Historic Insights from W.E.B. Du Bois & William Matney," advocating for a transformative shift in how Black business schools approach teaching—beyond the confines of unbridled capitalism. Another new chapter, "Reimagining the Next Golden Age," highlights contemporary Black leaders who are shaping a future of resilience, sustainability, and inclusivity.

Prieto and Phipps offer a masterclass in responsible management, showcasing how leaders like Charles Clinton Spaulding, Maggie Lena Walker, Annie Turnbo-Malone, and others used community-centered practices to build enduring enterprises. By embracing African centered philosophies, these pioneers gained a cooperative advantage, fostering an environment where care, collaboration, and mutual success thrived. This edition goes beyond a historical recount; it serves as a guide for navigating modern business complexities with wisdom, empathy, and a focus on long-term success. An essential read for students, managers, and entrepreneurs, this book challenges traditional business paradigms and invites readers to incorporate cooperative strategies for a more inclusive and just world.

Leon C. Prieto is Professor of Management in Clayton State University’s College of Business, USA, and Research Fellow at the Cambridge Centre for Social Innovation at the University of Cambridge, UK.

Simone T. A. Phipps is Professor of Management in Middle Georgia State University’s School of Business, USA, and Research Fellow at the Cambridge Centre for Social Innovation at the University of Cambridge, UK.