Notable African Americans

During the 19th Century and the early 20th Century it was asserted as fact that Blacks were inferior and had nothing of value to offer society. Of course, that was wrong, and we see a great deal of evidence to refute these beliefs and assertions. For example, blacks are currently the largest minority group in the U.S. and have made many contributions to America and the rest of the world.

They have not only excelled in sports and music, but they have excelled in science, arts, literature, etc. A few examples will illustrate a few of their contributions. Let's look at these.

Dr. George Washington Carver developed 118 uses of the sweet potato, discovered 300 uses for the peanut, and was responsible for one of the most stable foods ever - peanut butter.

Dr. Percy Julian helped create and produce low cost cortisone that is used to treat many diseases and developed an inexpensive drug to treat glaucoma eye disease.

Dr. Charles R. Drew founded performed the first known successful heart operation in 1893 and developed a means of separating and preserving blood plasma. He established a blood bank in England and the U.S. that resulted in saving many lives in World War I & II.

Gwendolyn Brooks won the Pulitzer Prize for literature and poetry.

Madame C.J. Walker developed a hair treatment and line of cosmetics that are used throughout the Nation.

Of course, everyone has heard of Michael Jordan, the greatest basketball player in history, Louie Armstrong, in music, Oprah Winfrey, talk show host, Bill Cosby, comedian and television personality, Ray Robinson, Mohammed Ali in boxing, Jim Brown, O.J. Simpson, Walter Payton in football, and many others in the field of track and other sports.

Rance Thomas, PhD, President, North County Churches Uniting for Racial Harmony and Justice

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