Ghost of a Legend: How a San Francisco Civil Rights Icon Was Made a Monster | KQED
Briefly

Cagigal emphasizes Mary Ellen Pleasant’s unique life of both empowerment and deception, stating, "Her life is so enshrouded in mystery because she was her own spin doctor." This underscores the complex narratives people create about themselves.
Bibbs elaborates on Pleasant's strategic positioning in society, noting, "She was very used to being covert," which sheds light on her ability to navigate and manipulate the biases of her time for civil rights.
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