Description
First edition of Eyes on the Prize by Juan Williams, inscribed to U.N. Ambassador and diplomat Edward J. Perkins.
Quarto, xv, 300pp, [5]. Hardcover, black cloth spine, title in gilt on spine. Stated “First published in 1987” on copyright page. Solid text block, a fine example. In publisher’s dust jacket, $24.95 retail price on front flap, a few closed tears to top edge, secured with tape on verso, a touch of sunning to spine. Inscribed by the author: “To Ambassador Edward J. Perkins – A hero of the modern civil rights movement as a man who has fought for opportunity, made the most of it and sought to leave a better future for those who come in his path. These stories will inspire you – I hope – as much as learning about your life and accomplishments inspired me. – Juan Williams 4-10-87.”
Juan Williams (b. 1954) is a political analyst known for his work on NPR and Fox News. Williams wrote Eyes on the Prize to accompany the Emmy Award-winning documentary series of the same name.
Dr. Edward J. Perkins (1928-2020) served as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, as well as Liberia, South Africa, and Australia throughout his 25 year foreign service career. In 1986 President Ronald Reagan appointed Perkins to serve as ambassador to South Africa in hopes of fending off a congressional override to his veto of economic sanctions against the country. It was a controversial decision amidst apartheid in South Africa, and many Black leaders urged Perkins to not take the role. Perkins accepted the position and served until 1989, one year before Nelson Mandela was released from prison. He was appointed U.N. Ambassador by George H. Bush in 1992, serving for one year.
