Mary Eliza Mahoney: The first African American professional nurse in the United States
In 1879, Mary Eliza Mahoney became the first Black graduate nurse in the United States. Mary Eliza Mahoney was born on May 7, 1845, in...
Tag : Black Firsts
Martin R. Delany: The Father of Black Nationalism
Every people should be originators of their own destiny. Martin Robinson Delany (May 6, 1812 – January 24, 1885) stands as one of the most...
Kofi Ghanaba (Guy Warren): The Divine Drummer who pioneered Afro-jazz
“The reuniting of African-American jazz with its African roots.” Kofi Ghanaba, also known as Guy Warren, was one of the most influential Ghanaian musicians of...
Sugar Ray Robinson: “Pound for pound” the best boxer in history
Sugar Ray Robinson is considered one of the greatest boxers of all time. Robinson held the world welterweight title from 1946 to 1951, and by...
Mary Elizabeth Carnegie: Nursing Legend
Mary Elizabeth Carnegie was a ground-breaking nurse, educator, and author who championed the cause of African American nurses. She was the first Black nurse to serve as...
John Willis Menard: The First African American elected to Congress
John Willis Menard, an African American journalist, civil rights leader, editor, and poet became the first African American elected to Congress, but was not seated...
Harriet E. Wilson: The first female African-American novelist
Harriet E. Wilson is considered the first female African-American novelist, as well as the first African American of any gender to publish a novel on...
Rose Fortune: Pioneer Black Canadian Businesswoman
Rose Fortune (March 13, 1774-February 20, 1864), a Black Loyalist originally from the US, is best-known for her talent as a businesswoman at a time...
Blanche Kelso Bruce: African American Senator during the 19th Century
[dropcap size=small]B[/dropcap]lanche Kelso Bruce was the first African American to serve a full term in the U.S. Senate, representing Mississippi as a Republican from 1875...
Ann Lowe: The African American Fashion Designer Who Created Jacqueline Kennedy’s Wedding Dress
Ann Cole Lowe was the first African American to become a noted fashion designer. Lowe’s one-of-a-kind designs were a favorite among high society matrons from...