News Summary
Michael L. Thurmond has been recognized as a finalist for the Georgia Author of the Year Award for his forthcoming book, which reexamines the historical narrative of Georgia’s founder, James Oglethorpe. After nearly three decades of research, his book aims to highlight Oglethorpe’s humanitarian efforts and anti-slavery activism, offering a more inclusive perspective of Georgia’s history. Thurmond hopes to inspire contemporary society through Oglethorpe’s ideals.
Augusta, Georgia – Michael L. Thurmond, an alumnus of Paine College, has been named a finalist for the prestigious 2025 Georgia Author of the Year Award in the history category. This recognition comes in light of his forthcoming book, “James Oglethorpe, Father of Georgia: A Founder’s Journey from Slave Trader to Abolitionist,” which aims to reshape the understanding of Georgia’s historical narrative through the life and legacy of its founder. The book is set to be released by early next year after 27 years of dedicated research and writing by Thurmond.
Thurmond’s work focuses on James Oglethorpe, who founded Georgia as a British colony on February 12, 1733. Traditionally, Oglethorpe’s role in history has been viewed largely as a response to the plight of debtor prisoners, but Thurmond seeks to present a more comprehensive picture that includes Oglethorpe’s humanitarian efforts. The author draws parallels between Oglethorpe’s views and his own perspective on welfare, emphasizing the importance of providing second chances.
Thurmond’s historical exploration began in earnest when he was invited to England in 1996 to honor the 300th anniversary of Oglethorpe’s birth. During this visit, he came across Oglethorpe’s burial site and a plaque that described him as “a friend of the oppressed Negro.” This poignant moment inspired Thurmond to delve deeper into Oglethorpe’s life, leading to nearly three decades of scholarly investigation.
The upcoming book will delve into significant aspects of Oglethorpe’s legacy, highlighting not only his abolitionist stance but also his commitment to social justice. Oglethorpe’s alignment with notable figures, such as the evangelist John Wesley, who opposed slavery, is examined in detail. Furthermore, Thurmond recounts the story of Ayuba Suleiman Diallo, an educated Muslim who was sold into slavery. Diallo’s correspondence played a critical role in shifting Oglethorpe toward anti-slavery activism, prompting him to resign from the Royal African Company.
Through his research, Thurmond underscores Oglethorpe’s dedication to humanitarian principles and universal human rights, highlighting his efforts to allow Jews to settle in Georgia, respect Native Americans, and advocate for women’s rights. Thurmond believes that Oglethorpe’s ideals should serve as a compass for shaping Georgia’s contemporary society, particularly in contrast to the divisive sentiments associated with figures commemorated on Stone Mountain.
In addition to his forthcoming title, Thurmond is also known for his earlier publication, “Freedom: Georgia’s Anti-Slavery Heritage 1733-1865,” released in 2003. This body of work further establishes Thurmond’s commitment to collaborating with fact-based research as a means of educating and uniting people around Georgia’s diverse historical narrative.
Thurmond advocates for a broader understanding of Georgia’s past, one that extends beyond the historical narratives associated with the Confederacy and the concept of the “Lost Cause.” His ongoing mission aims to illuminate the complexities and richness of Georgia’s history, encouraging discourse that highlights inclusivity and shared heritage.
As Michael L. Thurmond prepares for the upcoming release of his book and awaits the results of the Georgia Author of the Year Award, his significant contributions to the understanding of Georgia’s history affirm his place as a pivotal figure in contemporary historical scholarship.
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Additional Resources
- Augusta Press
- Saporta Report
- Audacy
- Legacy.com
- Atlanta Magazine
- Wikipedia: James Oglethorpe
- Google Search: Georgia Author of the Year
- Google Scholar: Michael L. Thurmond
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Georgia Colony
- Google News: Michael Thurmond
