The Way It Was and Other Writings

The Way It Was and Other Writings is an autobiographical recollection of life in the Hispanic and politically radical communities of New York City. Jesus Colon was an Afro-Puerto Rican activist, distinguished writer and newspaper columnist who lived in New York from 1917 until his death in 1974.

The Way It Was is a testimonial account of the evolution of the Puerto Rican community in New York and its major figures and organizations. The book documents the strength, spirit of solidarity, and life experiences that Colón shared with many other working-class migrants.