Who recorded folktales of blacks in North America and the West Indies?

The correct answer is based on the contributions of W.G. Rivers, who was known for his work in anthropology, particularly in the study of cultures, including the documentation of folktales among various societies. Rivers' approach often included the collection and analysis of oral traditions, which are vital for understanding cultural heritage and the social practices of communities, such as those of blacks in North America and the Caribbean. This work is significant as folktales often reflect the history, beliefs, and values of the cultures from which they originate, providing a deeper insight into the lives of the people who tell them.

Other scholars mentioned, like Elsie Parsons, made noteworthy contributions to anthropology, but Rivers is specifically recognized for his work with folktales. Mary Douglas Leakey is primarily known for her archaeological findings in East Africa, which do not focus on folktales. Similarly, Bronislaw Malinowski is best known for his ethnographic work in the Trobriand Islands and the development of participant observation in anthropology, rather than for collecting folktales specifically from African American or Caribbean traditions. This makes Rivers the most relevant choice for the collection of folktales in this context.