Homesteader

The Homesteader, written by Oscar Micheaux in 1917, is a semi-autobiographical novel that follows Jean Baptiste, an African-American homesteader in the Dakotas. The story explores his love for Agnes, a woman presumed to be white, which prevents their marriage. Instead, he marries Orlean, the daughter of a black preacher, leading to tragic family conflicts. The narrative culminates when Jean reunites with Agnes and uncovers her past, highlighting themes of race, love, and identity in early 20th-century America.