Black History Month Part 3

6 INFLUENTIAL AFRICAN AMERICAN MEN YOU MAY OR MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT

Click on the person's name to learn more about them

Martin Delany (1812 – 1885) -- first African American field officer in the U.S. Army. 

 

Scott Joplin (1867 – 1917) -- his composed piece “Maple Leaf Rag” for the piano is one of the most popular, and difficult pieces to play.

Oscar Charleston (1896 – 1954) -- considered to be one of the best all-around baseball players in the Negro Baseball Leagues from 1915 to 1945.  

 

Langston Hughes (1902 – 1967) -- was a poet and playwright; known for his colorful but insightful portrayal of black life in America in the 1920’s through 1960's, as well as being the leader of the Harlem Renaissance. 

Jesse Owens (1913 – 1980) -- American track-and-field athlete; competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics and won 4 gold medals, much to the chagrin of Adolf Hitler. 

 

Arthur Mitchell (1883 – 1968) -- first black congressmen for the Democratic party.