Final answer:
Zora Neale Hurston interviewed Cudjo Lewis to document his experiences as one of the last individuals trafficked in the slave trade, contributing to the historical and cultural understanding of African-Americans. Today, her anthropological and literary works continue to reveal the richness of African-American heritage and personal resilience.
Step-by-step explanation:
Zora Neale Hurston's interview with Cudjo Lewis (Kossola) sheds light on the harrowing experiences of one of the last individuals trafficked in the trans-Atlantic slave trade and subsequently enslaved in the United States. Hurston, an eminent African-American anthropologist and author, was deeply invested in capturing the African-American experience, which is evident in her works, such as 'Their Eyes Were Watching God'. Her efforts in interviewing Cudjo Lewis were in line with her broader goal to document African-American folklore, traditions, and personal histories, thus contributing to the literary and historical understanding of the period.
Through her interviews and writings, Hurston helped readers of her time make new discoveries regarding the cultural identity and experiences of African-Americans. These narratives, including the stories of formerly enslaved individuals, played a crucial role in promoting racial pride and providing an unfiltered portrayal of African-American culture. Today's readers continue to make these discoveries, gaining insights into the resilience and resourcefulness of people like Cudjo Lewis, as well as the broader African-American community.
Hurston's work went unrecognized for decades until the 1970s when writers like Alice Walker revived interest in her contributions, recognizing the significance of her work in shaping the discourse on race, gender, and cultural heritage. The scenario mentioned in the question represents an important intersection of anthropology, literature, and history.