Alaina E. Roberts is a finalist for Los Angeles Times book prize

Alaina E. Roberts, assistant professor of history in the Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, is a finalist for this year’s Los Angeles Times Book Prize in the history category.

In her book, “I've Been Here All the While: Black Freedom on Native Land,” Roberts tells a story about Indian Territory during the Reconstruction era and ties African American and Native American history together. Digging into archival research and family history, she connects debates about Black freedom and Native American citizenship to westward expansion onto Native land.

This year’s winners will be announced at an award ceremony on April 22, marking the 42nd year of the prize recognizing literary achievement.