Black historical figures. Walker, who was the first U.
Black historical figures 22, 1956, file photo, Rosa Parks is fingerprinted by police Lt. Dec 12, 2020 · Underwood Archives / Getty Images. This year, Victory Institute highlighted a different Black LGBTQ trailblazer each day of Black History Month, from both past and present, who have made history in the fight for equality around the […] Feb 23, 2024 · Over the years, school curricula have changed, limiting the scope to the same Black figures throughout history. Each of the stories below is a window into the lives these momentous figures, including rare interviews with Martin L Feb 8, 2023 · When you're asked to think of vital Black American civil rights leaders, it’s likely that Dr. Alongside a person’s Hispanic, racial, or national origin identities, it can often exist. He was one of the first African American writers to use the genre of travel writing to describe his experiences with both American and European society, and one of the first African American men to speak publicly on the matter of women’s rights, which he The wait is over—the new BlackPast. E. Jones (1932-2020) K. Dec 2, 2024 · John Lewis Wikimedia Commons John Lewis was born as the son of sharecroppers in rural Alabama in 1940. Given that Black History Month (BHM) was coming in February 2023, we thought that it was the perfect time to allow our audience to discover Black figures that are not well-known in the world despite the very significant role they played in recent history. F or too many years, history books have focused on the achievement of White Americans, while many of the inspiring contributions of African Feb 26, 2025 · In honor of Black History Month 2025, share a Black historical figure that people today should know about. J. was the first black man and Mae Jemison the first black woman to travel in space (in 1983 and 1992, respectively). Read. Political leader, educator, author. People are listed alphabetically by last name. woman to become a self-made millionaire Feb 5, 2024 · For many years, school curricula have limited their scope to the same Black figures throughout history. Walker, who was the first U. " Booker T. Feb 6, 2024 · Black History Month gives us the space to recognize figures from around the world who have made an impact on the global Black community. Feb 19, 2024 · 15 Amazing LGBTQ People Whose Groundbreaking Lives Helped Shape Black History Including writers, singers, dancers, activists, this list of Black LGBTQ icons will surprise and inspire. Their stories provide Feb 6, 2024 · Black History Month gives us the space to recognize figures from around the world who have made an impact on the global Black community. Slidesgo templates like this one here offer the possibility to convey a concept, idea or topic in a clear, concise and visual way, by using different Feb 1, 2021 · Every Black History Month, we tend to celebrate the same cast of historic figures. Wells, poet Paul Laurence Dunbar, and John Edmonstone, a taxidermist who trained Charles Darwin. , Rosa Parks, and Oct 27, 2009 · Black History Month honors the contributions of African Americans to U. Contralto Marian Anderson is considered one of the most important singers of the 20th century. Yet, many of these figures remain largely unrecognized in mainstream education. m. 16, 2022 File photo 01/02/1974 Feb 11, 2025 · From local activists and trailblazers to lesser-known names on the national stage, we shed a light on the contributions of Black men and women who shook up the world. Kris Bailey, New York. and Europe, beginning in the 1920s. Dec 3, 2023 · The Black community has endured unspeakable atrocities from the darkest days of slavery to the shameful denial of basic rights in recent history. . Oct 3, 2022 · If you’re a parent, you’ll be wondering the same for your little one(s)! But you’re in the right place if you’re hoping to dress up as a Black historical figure. 1856-1915. Explore more. Feb 27, 2014 · Liberator (Boston, Massachusetts), 9 December 1853, page 195. (Nov. Among the prominent figures are Madam C. But what do you know about other Black history heroes, like Claudette Colvin, Alice Coachman, or Shirley Chisholm? A biographical dictionary of one hundred historically great Black Americans, as assessed by Molefi Kete Asante in 2002. In fact, with figures like the Beachy Head Woman and Ivory Bangle Lady, we know that there has been a black presence in the British Isles since at least the 3rd century CE. Feb 19, 2015 · 1. B. Jan 31, 2024 · Mae Jemison, MD, is most famous for becoming the first Black woman astronaut to go into space, in 1992. But the thing is, there are way more than just seven Feb 13, 2023 · Beasley's Trail-Blazers book included diaries, biographical sketches, poetry, photographs, old papers, conversations with old pioneers, and a comprehensive history of early legislation and court cases involving noteworthy Black people in California. Feb. Many famous black athletes have represented their country in the Olympics, including Muhammad Ali (as Cassius Clay), Jesse Owens, Florence Griffith-Joyner, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony and the list goes on and on. Dec 16, 2023 · African American History Month icons like Ruby Bridges and Claudette Colvin; In this post, you’ll find: 10 influential figures to celebrate during Black History Month; Black historical figures who pushed social justice forward; Famous African Americans from the 20th and 21st centuries Important Black History Month figures to acknowledge and Feb 25, 2017 · In honor of Black History Month, here's a look at 14 people who broke color barriers to become the first Black Americans to achieve historic accomplishments in politics, academics, aviation Mar 1, 2021 · Black History Month is a special opportunity to discover and recognize the many talented individuals who have shaped our country and world for the better. Craft Civil Rights House, Dallas; Nikki Christmas, Juanita J. February is Black History Month. Ida B. A singular figure in American history, Randolph’s influence on labor and civil rights movements traversed presidential administrations and historical eras. Woodson: “The Father of Black History” Ralph Bunche: The First African American to Win the Nobel Peace Prize ; Oscar Micheaux: The First African American Film Director Featured in White Theaters; Doris Miller: The First African American to Be Awarded the Navy Cross W. S. Feb 1, 2023 · These pioneering figures deserve to be celebrated. Feb 8, 2024 · Monumental Sculpture Reimagines ‘The Last Supper’ With Black Historical Figures. Jul 6, 2023 · Reflecting on the bravery and generational impact of these Black figures, here are 10 historical Black figures who made unprecedented impacts on the world. Senate. Jul 7, 2021 · For Black History Month, we highlighted a list of seven Black historical figures who had, at one point or another, called Connecticut home. She was born into slavery in Maryland in the early 19th century. Mar 3, 2025 · 14 Black Historical Figures Bulletin Board, Includes 14 Famous Black Historical Figures + Freebies, INSTANT DOWNLOAD, 1 PDF File Included Mar 23, 2021 · Famous Black People: Activists & Famous Black Historical Leaders 1st Black Vice President of the United States Kamala Harris source Wikipedia Creative Commons These famous Black political leaders and famous Black activists set the stage for change past, present, and future. Martin Luther King Jr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a prominent civil rights activist and minister of the Baptist church in the United Feb 9, 2024 · Black inventors like Madam C. Coretta Scott King with strikers. Other African American Heroes with a Place in History. African American History Online: A Resource Guide; The African American Odyssey: A Quest for Full Citizenship: Reconstruction and Its Aftermath; African American Photographs Assembled for 1900 Paris Exposition; African American Famous for whistling and singing "The Whistling Coon" and "The Laughing Coon. ” Read on to learn more about sadly forgotten figures in Black history. Apr 3, 2024 · This page serves as an index to the prominent figures featured throughout the Black History Portal webpages. Feb 14, 2023 · In 2020, Sydney Barber was selected as the Naval Academy’s first African American woman brigade commander. George Washington Carver. Mary Ellen Pleasant, Abolitionist A list of inspirational black people who played a key role in the world and American history. These films offer an engaging yet educational look into the lives of Black individuals who have triumphed over adversity, impacted society, and changed the course of history. She was born into slavery in Maryland in the early Grab the Black History Figures List for Kids. He acquired a lot of knowledge in mathematics and natural history, becoming one of the first Black intellectuals. Feb 25, 2025 · Inspiring Figures in Black History (Video) February 25, 2025 Three students connected to Africana Studies within the College of Arts & Sciences highlight prominent and lesser-known individuals including journalist and activist Ida B. The list covers various fields of achievement, such as politics, arts, sports, and civil rights, and includes photos and brief summaries of each person's life and work. Washington. , Rosa Parks, and Harriet Tubman are all important, some educators (and their students) are eager to learn more about underrepresented trailblazers like Lewis Latimer, Marsha P. By Sarajane Sullivan, Features Reporter Updated Feb 1, 2022 10:03 a. Johnson have transformed everything from modern aviation to media and activism. An John Baxter Taylor was the first African American on the United States Olympic Team. One of the dominant figures in African-American history from 1890 to 1915; did much to improve the friendship and working relationship between the races. This article was originally published on Feb. Amanda Gorman made history as the youngest poet to read at a presidential inauguration. Still, his legacy as one of the most influential African American scientists who changed history is undeniable. Feb 23, 2024 · President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976, calling upon the public to honor the “too-often” neglected accomplishments and endeavors of Black Americans. Wells. , Malcolm X, and Rosa Parks are often elevated—and with good reason. ” The time and place of a breakthrough reflects not only remarkable individual achievement but is itself an indication of the progress or lack of progress of black people in realizing the centuries-old intertwined goals of freedom, equality, and justice. Washington Feb 5, 2018 · When Claudette Colvin‘s high school in Montgomery, Alabama, observed Negro History Week in 1955, the 15-year-old had no way of knowing how the stories of Black freedom fighters would soon impact Feb 13, 2020 · From 1960s civil rights activist Bayard Rustin to Chicago's first lesbian mayor, Lori Lightfoot, Black LGBTQ Americans have long made history with innumerable contributions to politics, art Feb 16, 2022 · 20 Black trailblazers from Houston that you should know, from Carl Hampton to Barbara Jordan By Monique Welch. from The Ohio History Center: The African American Experience in Ohio, 1850-1920; A curated selection of manuscript collections, newspaper articles, serials, photographs, and pamphlets from a number of individual sources, intended to provide evidence of the diversity and complexity of African-American culture during this time period. This month, take time to honor and observe the contributions of Black leaders throughout history. From Martin Luther King to Pele, from Nelson Mandela to Michael Jackson, discover their achievements and stories. VERDICT This is an engaging introduction to an important, often overlooked figure in Black history and a great choice for children’s music education or Women’s or Black History Month. Clicking on the linked content will direct you to an individual's page, or records within the National Archives Catalog. Many Black people looked to Booker T. Guion Bluford Jr. K. We’ll also mention notable Academy Award recognition, as well as some thoughts on the impact of each film. RELATED STORIES. , Rosa Parks, Maya Angelou, James Baldwin, and Muhammad Ali are often mentioned—and rightfully so. Feb 28, 2022 · We celebrate our Black leaders not only during Black History Month but all year long! Keep scrolling to see the Black Information Network's spotlight on 28 Black leaders who are driving our culture and community forward. Her career in journalism spanned more than 50 years, during which time she detailed the many Feb 18, 2025 · Past, Present, and Future RELATED: Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 Whether they shaped the culture, dominated their craft, or left an undeniable mark on black history, these […] Sep 8, 2016 · The True Story of “Hidden Figures,” the Forgotten Women Who Helped Win the Space Race. Philip Randolph (1889-1979) — The Labor Leader. Each free printable PDF features pictures of historical figures including: Bessie Coleman, Amanda Gorman, Martin Luther King Jr. 8, 2022. Feb 7, 2022 · Each year during Black History Month, the stories of figures like Dr. University of Pennsylvania Archives John Taylor. The road to school desegregation. Carter G. 1926 Boston MA) After working at the New England Hospital for Women and Children, Mary Eliza Mahoney became the first African American woman to be accepted into nursing school, at the age of 33. Feb 2, 2023 · During Black History Month, and every month, we must honor the role of African-Americans in U. 1 – Malcolm X When we think of Feb 20, 2025 · Here is theGrio’s list of most influential Black politicians in American history. Du Bois was a founding member of NAACP and one of the foremost Black intellectuals of his era. Navy/ AP Images) At 21, Sydney Barber became the United States Naval Academy’s first African American woman brigade commander, leading over 4,000 midshipmen and a staff of 30 people. Dec 7, 2021 · To compile a list of 33 Black women who have changed American history, 24/7 Wall St. As the second black woman to attend U. Feb 19, 2024 · Here, we share 25 powerful and impactful movies that people from all walks of life and color can watch to celebrate Black History Month. Black History figures everyone should know about. They are the civil rights leaders and abolitionists whose faces we see plastered on calendars and postage stamps. She was born into slavery in Maryland in the early Feb 8, 2023 · In the United States, his ministries focused on bringing together people of different faiths, races, and classes. It may not be very scary, but it’ll be fun! We launched this platform to remind people that because of those who came before us, we can do anything we put our minds to. C. Updated: 11 a. When it comes to pioneers in African American history, Dr. 40. Keep reading to learn about some of the… Feb 2, 2018 · While we commonly learn about imperative African-American figures like Martin Luther King Jr. FILE - In this Feb. Sep 11, 2023 · 20 Most Famous Afro-Latinos in History Deep roots in colonial Latin America define Afro-Latino identity. Feb 4, 2021 · Benjamin Banneker is a fascinating figure in history and an inspiring Black History hero who was a free, self-thought (no formal education) author, surveyor, astronomer, inventor, and landowner. Learn about Black History Month, Black leaders, the Great Migration, the civil rights movement and more. In honor of Black History Month, read the inspiring stories of 10 pioneering black physicians. Historical figures like Bessie Coleman, Max Robinson, and Marsha P. While lectures on the legacies of Martin Luther King Jr. While I think it’s important to learn about the important accomplishments Black Americans have made to U. Feb 1, 2021 · Every February, Black History Month serves as a reminder to pay homage to Black politicians, activists, artists and more who have paved the way for civil rights movements. 6) Mary Eliza Mahoney (16 Apr. and Rosa Parks are well-known Black figures in history, there are many lesser-known people who helped shape America. The contributions of these figures, and so many others, worked to end oppressive systems, break barriers, and bring to light the challenges faced by Black people everywhere. BlackPast is dedicated to providing reliable information on the history of Black people across the globe, and especially in North America. Marie Van Brittan Brown An African American woman inventor, received a patent in 1969, for inventing the first home security system. Nov 11, 2020 · By the time the Civil War began in 1861, Frederick Douglass was one of the most famous Black men in the United States—a prominent voice for freedom, human rights and social reform. D. , Malcolm X, Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman, Maya Angelou, and many others, we don’t often hear about the Jun 21, 2023 · Black History Month Activities: Schools and community groups organize many activities in February, including plays, presentations, and research projects focusing on Black historical figures. law school, Shadd Cary established the Provincial Freeman newspaper in 1853, advocating for equality, integration, and self-education for black communities in Canada and the United States. Sep 8, 2024 · The American civil rights movement was a nationwide struggle for justice and equality for Black Americans during the 1950s and ’60s. From trailblazing inventors to inspiring activists, People in African American History. Mar 1, 2025 · Black movies based on true stories highlight pivotal moments and influential figures in history. Known for her impressive three-octave vocal range, she performed widely in the U. Celebrating Black History Month in elementary school is an opportunity to inspire students with the stories of those who paved the way for change. Hiram Rhodes Revels Hiram Revels is depicted around 1870, the year he was elected to the U. These figures made contributions to Black history and, by extension, American history, that cannot be overstated. history. Oct 14, 2009 · African American history began with slavery, as white European settlers first brought Africans to the continent to serve as enslaved workers. Robert Abbott Established a weekly newspaper, called the Chicago Defender, one of the most important African American newspapers in history, in 1905. She was also one of the first female physician authors in the 19th century. Black history is the story of African Americans in the United States and elsewhere. Feb 8, 2025 · (Stacker) – For many years, school curricula have limited their scope to the same Black figures throughout history. For too many years, history books have focused on the achievement of White Americans, while many of the inspiring contributions of African Black History figures everyone should know about. Sep 23, 2024 · Harriet Tubman is one of the most famous Black historical figures out there. Jan 24, 2025 · Gr 2-4–A picture book biography introduces young readers to Florence Beatrice Price, the first Black American classical composer, organist, and pianist. Among its leaders were Martin Luther King Jr. 00<3 081 to òoó FREDERICK DOUGLASS Frederick Douglass was an African- American social reformer, abolitionist, writing and statesman. African American history is about much more than chronicling a series of “firsts. H Jan 19, 2024 · Notably, she became North America’s first black woman publisher and Canada’s inaugural female publisher. Objectives. Several states including Florida, Texas, and Oklahoma have approved or suggested measures to limit race-related language in public schools. Craft Civil Rights House, City of Dallas Office of Arts and Culture; Watch other videos, order a free travel guide, and find more heritage destinations focusing on Black history at Texas Time Dec 31, 2022 · Famous Historical Black People 1. By and large, they were rebels who were willing to take on established norms and traditions. 29, 1908 – April 4, 1972) He was the first person of African-American descent to be elected from New York to Congress. Rebecca Lee Crumpler, MD (1831 — 1895) In 1864, after years as a nurse, Rebecca Lee Crumpler became the first black woman in the United States to receive an MD degree. Bluford is an engineer and was a colonel in the United John Baxter Taylor was the first African American on the United States Olympic Team. Luke that Walker noticed how Black people struggled to get loans African American Pioneers of Science. , Rosa Parks, and Thurgood Marshall—and their contributions are well known, those figures are just a few of the men and women whose efforts and commitment to equal rights and opportunity reshaped the The people who influenced history the most, the "movers and shakers" from ancient times until today, have one thing in common: they challenged the status quo. Without her having the courage to cover and expose the lynchings going on over a century ago, I’m not sure we’d have very accurate and real info about that today. org is officially live! We’ve redesigned our site to bring you a modern, user-friendly experience that makes exploring Black history easier and more engaging than ever. Jemison, however, is also a trained physician who has dedicated her life to improving global Mar 10, 2023 · Considered a pioneering figure of African American literature, William Wells Brown was a playwright, activist, and a man of many firsts. Jones was an American basketball coach for the National Basketball Feb 1, 2025 · Here’s a list of prominent Black historical figures in America from the Metro Detroit area: Rosa Parks. Du Bois published many influential works describing the plight of Black Americans and encouraged Black people to embrace their African heritage even as they worked and lived in the United States. Everyone should celebrate Black history every day since without Black people contributing so much to society, we would not be here today. Feb 20, 2016 · Take your time with the list to find out why today in black history we are still celebrating these icons. Feb 19, 2025 · Black history is rich with stories of incredible individuals whose contributions have shaped our world in countless ways. He Feb 11, 2025 · From local activists and trailblazers to lesser-known names on the national stage, we shed a light on the contributions of Black men and women who shook up the world. She was born into slavery in Maryland in the early Feb 22, 2023 · The first woman African American neurosurgeon in the United States. In 1883, she published A Book of Medical Discourses, focusing on maternal and pediatric medical care. Amanda Gorman. Feb 8, 2022 · February is Black History Month and it is a great time to celebrate the accomplishments of important figures and historic moments. New York Times’ 1619 Project: This groundbreaking initiative reframes American history around the enduring consequences of slavery and the incredible Oct 27, 2009 · The civil rights movement was a struggle for justice and equality for African Americans that took place mainly in the 1950s and 1960s. F or too many years, history books have focused on the achievement of White Americans, while many of the inspiring contributions of African African-American physician. Due to these compounding adversities, a select few brave voices have risen from this crucible of injustice to become synonymous with the ongoing struggle for equality against hostile forces. , Harriet Tubman, Barack Obama, and Booker T. 1845 Dorchester, MA – 4 Jan. Jun 16, 2021 · These 7 Black historical figures have called CT home. Johnson, and Max Robinson. Feb 10, 2021 · Larry Callies, Black Cowboy Museum, Rosenberg; Candace Thompson, Friends of the Juanita J. Feb 28, 2025 · Dive into an extensive collection of materials related to Black and African American history and culture, including. history throughout the whole year, February is set aside to honor their achievements and raise awareness of Black history. Tavares Strachan’s “The First Supper” took four years to sculpt and is now on display at an exhibition in . Jan 31, 2025 · While they are certainly worthy of praise and attention, inevitably, so many other incredible Black Americans — the names that don’t always appear in history books — are given the short shrift. (Credit: Petty Officer 2nd Class Nathan Burke/U. Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Plant scientist Jan 27, 2023 · This February, celebrate Black History Month by learning about and honoring these 30 trailblazing Black American historical figures, whose contributions to American history continue to impact us Sep 16, 2024 · Black History figures everyone should know about. Feb 1, 2022 · Learn about these trailblazing Black women in history including luminaries like Kamala Harris, Maya Angelou, Michelle Obama, Aretha Franklin and Rosa Parks. He studied at the American Baptist Theological Society in Nashville and helped to organize sit-ins against segregated restaurants; during this period, he coined his iconic phrase, "Good Trouble," and was jailed on numerous occasions. Walker, Frederick McKinley Jones, Patricia Bath, and Mark Dean revolutionized everyday life with their creations. , Malcolm X, the Oct 10, 2013 · Be inspired by the men and women of the African American Civil Rights Movement. A new book and movie document the accomplishments of NASA’s black “human computers” whose work was Download the "Black History Month Historical Figures: Frederick Douglass" presentation for PowerPoint or Google Slides and start impressing your audience with a creative and original design. While the names of some activists—Martin Luther King, Jr. For Afro-Latinos, life experiences are molded by race, skin Jan 28, 2025 · Welcome to our ever-growing collection of Black History Month coloring pages. Introducing them to different famous Black History figures gives them the chance to explore stories that highlight resilience, innovation, and leadership. , instantly comes to mind—and why wouldn’t he?? Throughout the 1950s and 60s, the civil rights hero was an unparalleled pillar of strength for African Americans in the nonviolent fight toward equality and the end of legal segregation in the United Sta Feb 2, 2024 · He spent the rest of his career working for various hospitals in Chicago until he suffered a debilitating stroke in 1926, dying five years later at his home in Idlewild, Michigan. A. At every point in history, there have been non-white individuals and communities living, working or traveling in Britain. It was while at St. reviewed a set of images of “African-American Women Changemakers” — including educators, activists Feb 1, 2022 · While Martin Luther King, Jr. Black History Month. 54 Influential People For Black History Month 1. Poet. From early inventors, authors, and entrepreneurs to civil rights activists and politicians, the scope of Black history is far older and more significant than the March on Washington or “I Have a Dream. urfauhiflnwccfffjouwjzddnjmrhjyfsccwnhdpowcciywqqphuyvcgjspjqpckap