"From civil rights to Ferguson, Franchise reveals the untold history of how fast food became one of the greatest generators of black wealth in America. Often blamed for the rising rates of obesity and diabetes among black Americans, fast food restaurants like McDonald's have long symbolized...

The first fruits of freedom -- Into the new century -- Great war, great migration -- Race and labor in depression and war -- Race and labor in the postwar world -- Affirmative action and labor action -- Back to the future