Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Civil Rights Leader, Civil Rights Movement Timeline From 1951 to 1959, 5 Men Who Inspired Martin Luther King, Jr. to Be a Leader, 6 Revealing Autobiographies by African American Thinkers, Civil Rights Movement Timeline From 1960 to 1964, Civil Rights Movement Timeline From 1965 to 1969, 10 of the Most Important Black Women in U.S. History, B.A., History, University of California at Davis. https://www.oprahmag.com/life/g25954127/african-american-historical-figures (1899–1975) Person Lonzo Ball (African-American father)—professional basketball player; LiAngelo Ball (African-American … Nearly every professional and amateur sport has a Black star athlete. Important and Famous African Americans. A famous environmentalist from Kenya, Wangari Maathai is the first woman from the under privileged region of East and Central Africa to have attained a doctorate. 4 Famous African American Explorers You’ve Never Heard Of. By McKenzie Jean-Philippe. "We have to make the choice—every single day—to exemplify the truth, the respect, and the grace that we wish for this world," Oprah said in 2019. Because of his dark skin and great intellect he was called the "sable genius," Benjamin was a self-taught mathematician and astronomer. African American History Timeline: 1619 - 2008 . Tolkien was born in Bloemfontein, South Africa before moving back to England, where he later wrote the best-selling ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy. "Find the Good and Praise It", This trumpet player is one of the most famous and influential performers in the history of jazz. By 1690, every colony has slaves. Click here to read biographies of famous african-americans. Obviously, there are many more famous African Americans than can be listed on a single page, but considering the challenges they've had to face throughout American History, it seems only fitting to acknowledge the many great contributions of African Americans to American culture over the past several hundred years. "Find the Good and Praise It", This trumpet player is one of the most famous and influential performers in the history of jazz. Seven Famous African-American Masters of American Art - Atlanta Art Gallery. Explore articles and videos of some of the most prominent African Americans in politics, the arts, law, science and sports who have made Black History what it is today. "Hello, Dolly!" Some, like Olympic track star Jackie Joyner-Kersee, have set new records for athletic achievement. Famous African Americans. Tweet. Charles Drew's work in blood transfusions, for example, saved thousands of lives during World War II and is still used in medicine today. 25 April 1917, American. Copyright © 2016 FamousAfricanAmericans.org, Museum Dedicated to African American History and Culture is Set to Open in 2016, Scholarships for African Americans – Black Scholarships, Top 10 Most Famous Black Actors of All Time. Jackie Robinson was Rookie of the Year, played on a World Series championship team and was the National League most valuable player. Artists such as Jimi Hendrix, Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Tupac Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G., Missy Elliott, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong, Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye, Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, B.B. Multiple Nobel Prize winners were even born in Africa. Blacks have served and died in … Kids and other researchers can scan this page for facts fast. James Earl Jones (January 17, 1931 -) is an African-American actor who is famous for his deep, resonant voice and powerful presence. Some of these famous African people relocated to the U.S. or UK as children, while others remained in Africa throughout their careers. Black Americans have served with distinction in all three branches of government, in the military, and in legal practice. African American chemist Percy Julian was a pioneer in the chemical synthesis of medicinal drugs such as cortisone, steroids and birth control pills. DTugui. Aug 11, 2015 - Explore My Info's board "Famous African Americans from Arkansas" on Pinterest. African-Americans have been the victims of oppression, discrimination and persecution throughout American history, with an impact on African-American innovation. Sep 11, 2018 - Explore eileen carter's board "Famous African Americans" on Pinterest. Tolkien (1892-1973). From famous boxers such as Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield, to the tennis duo Venus and Serena Williams, golf legend Tiger Woods, baseball players such as Jackie Robinson, endless list of NBA players such as Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, LeBron James, Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant – the list goes … From civil rights activist like Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman, Malcolm X, to Maya Angelou. Singer. List and Biographies of Famous African Americans Click here to read biographies of famous african-americans. 27 … Marian Anderson Louis Armstrong One of the fields that famous African Americans have contributed to the most is sports. While visiting Nelson Mandela , she agreed to put forward 10 million dollars to found a girls' school in South Africa. Basquiat was born in Brooklyn to a Puerto Rican mother and a Haitian father in 1960. Loosely defined, African Americans are people whose ancestral heritage is tied to Africa as well as America. This mindset took a long time to change, and it was only by the end of the 20th century that African Americans began to gain an equal footing in society. Tech. He wrote "Roots: The Saga of an American Family".He told the story of his family from the time they were captured in Africa (1750) until about 1870. Famous Blacks From Virginia. World renowned actors and directors such as Martin Lawrence, Morgan Freeman, Spike Lee, Sidney Poitier, Laurence Fishburne and Denzel Washington are paid millions of dollars for their work. See more ideas about black history, african american history, african american. thefamouspeople.com. Black History Daily Lesson - Famous African Americans: Celebrate Black History Month, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. w/ activities and resources from Internet 4 Classrooms Read on for more information about the life and works of famous African Americans. Jennifer Rosenberg is a historian and writer who specializes in 20th-century history. Or course – it exists in a country with hundreds of millions of people. Or course – it exists in a country with hundreds of millions of people. In 1988, Bath became the first African-American woman physician to receive a medical patent with her Laserphaco Probe, which improved cataract treatment. Famous African Americans admit shocking facts about racism. His presence in MLB helped make huge advancements in … Ella Fitzgerald. African Americans have made history in various fields such as science, sports, music, politics, and much more, but did you know that there are also some inspiring African American explorers who made awesome discoveries? Although in the 20th century slavery was officially outlawed, the unjust treatment of African Americans was far from over. by Maxine E. Davis. She was the first African American to perform with the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. There would be no jazz music today were it not for the contributions of artists like Miles Davis or Louis Armstrong, who were instrumental in the evolution of this uniquely American music genre. He wrote "Roots: The Saga of an American Family".He told the story of his family from the time they were captured in Africa (1750) until about 1870. Innovations and advancements of Black scientists and educations transformed life in the 20th century. Wangari Maathai led a life full of struggle. By using ThoughtCo, you accept our, Politicians, Lawyers, and Other Government Leaders, Brooks Kraft / CORBIS / Corbis via Getty Images, Black History and Women Timeline 1990 to 1999, Biography of the Rev. 40-Thought Provoking Quotes by Famous African Americans “I am what time, circumstance, history, have made of me, certainly, but I am also, much more than that. Famous African Americans. Famous African Americans admit shocking facts about racism. One of the fields that famous African Americans have contributed to the most is sports. However things began to change in the late 19th century with the likes of civil rights activists like John Lewis, Samuel Ringgold Ward, and Harriet Tubman raising … A lot of famous African Americans have made their mark in diverse fields such as music, sports, movies, theatre and world politics. 44th President 2009–2017: His paternal ancestors came to America from Kenya and his maternal ancestors came to America from England. October 8, 2018. Coretta Scott King. DuBois, paved the way with their own contributions in the century's first decades. New York City would continue to serve as a catalyst for African American artists for decades, with Jean-Michel Basquiat among the Big Apple's most famous artists—and contemporary art's most universally recognized figures. Famous people with African Connection. Minority Artists from Americaõs beginning have made outstanding contributions to American art history. The smallest school child to the oldest adult can rattle off … Mae Jemison. I interested to see what other African American Hoosiers would be listed, though it only references eight. Allen Iverson. Enslaved African American Nat Turner (1800-1831) led an effective rebellion with fellow slaves in Southampton County, Virginia, U.S. in August 1831. Black men and women made great contributions to American society throughout the 20th century, advancing civil rights as well as science, government, sports, and entertainment. With the advancement of the Civil Rights Movement, led by leaders such as well-known African Americans like Martin Luther King Jr., Booker T. Washington and Rosa Parks, the Civil Rights Act was adopted in 1964. She dominated the American Tennis Association circuit, reserved for Black players, for more than a decade. African-American slave: Duke Ellington: April 29, 1899 - May 24, 1974: Washington, D.C. … Read on for more information about the life and works of famous African Americans. Notable African American actors, in both movies and theatre have made their mark as well. Start studying Famous African Americans. New York City would continue to serve as a catalyst for African American artists for decades, with Jean-Michel Basquiat among the Big Apple's most famous artists—and contemporary art's most universally recognized figures. 681 likes. If you don’t, you’re not alone. Atlas » Learn more about the world with our collection of regional and country maps. In 1851, gave a famous extemporaneous speech “Ain’t I a woman?” which supported equal rights for blacks and women. 05 April 1973, American. My ancestors were the unwilling, unintact ones: children torn from parents, parents torn from elders, people torn from roots, stories torn from language. Some African-American comedians and rappers are also on this list, having found success in a movie, or two. Hank Aaron. By Dozie Nze. Many people often default to "African American" out of a desire for either political correctness or politeness. People of African American descent have been subjected to slavery, racial discrimination and other forms of cruelty for several decades. From civil rights activist like Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman, Malcolm X, to Maya Angelou. His father was Kenyan and the first of his family to leave Africa. Famous African American Slaves Who Fought Against Their Circumstances The African Americans have been one of the most oppressed communities in the world. 4. The two terms are often used interchangeably, but … Oprah Winfrey is a popular American media personality, who has become famous for her philanthropic work. Babyface has written and produced for famous artists such as Beyonce, TLC, Madonna, Celine Dion, Mariah Carey and more. Prominent African Americans. Some, like Sidney Poitier, challenged racial attitudes with his role in popular films like "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner," while others, such as Oprah Winfrey, have become media moguls and cultural icons. Benjamin Banneker Born on November 9, 1731 near Elliott City Maryland, Benjamin was one of America's greatest intellectuals and scientists. Paintings, sculpture, graphics, and architectural and decorative … Whether performing on stage, in films, or on TV, Black Americans entertained the United States throughout the 20th century. One of the top entertainers today is Oprah Winfrey, who came from extremely humble beginnings, but is now an inspiration for millions of women worldwide and owns a multi-billion dollar television network. In celebration of Black History Month, we are sharing 40-Thought Provoking Quotes by Famous African Americans. 40 Famous Black and African American Women Who Are Leaving Their Mark on History. Benjamin was an essayist, inventor, mathematician, and an astronomer. 17 October 1956, American. Does racism exist in the United States? And don't worry: We'll be updating this list regularly. Well-known for the “Green Belt Movement”, she has inspired many people the world over to take up the cause of afforestation. King and numerous others showcase a range of talent that is both diverse and impressive. Marian Anderson was a very famous African American singer. Check out these 16 most famous African American female slaves. ThoughtCo uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. Nevertheless, African Americans have made basic and lasting contributions to American history and Basketball Player. Sojourner Truth (1797 – 1883) African-American abolitionist and women’s rights campaigner. From famous boxers such as Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield, to the tennis duo Venus and Serena Williams, golf legend Tiger Woods, baseball players such as Jackie Robinson, endless list of NBA players such as Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, LeBron James, Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant – the list goes on and on. Famous African Americans. and "What a Wonderful World" are two of this musician's top hits. Minority contributions to the cultural heritage of our nation have too often been overlooked and unrecognized in our schools. Chris Froome – The Kenyan-born Brit learnt to cycle in Kenya and later South Africa. The contralto is the lowest female voice. Thurgood Marshall, a leading civil rights lawyer, ended up on the U.S. Supreme Court. Share on Facebook. Her Laserphaco Probe, which improved cataract treatment researchers can scan this page for facts.. Are sharing 40-Thought Provoking Quotes by famous African Americans, American, African put together a list of African. 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