At the height of Blind Lemon Jefferson’s career, his unique Texas blues style was easily recognizable. His guitar playing, which sometimes involved picking with his thumb, and his two octave vocal range, certainly set him apart from other country blues singers of the time. In fact, Jefferson was somewhat of a national star when pop stars had not yet been invented. But there was good reason: he had a substantial impact on the development of the Texas blues style.

Considered one of the most influential black intellectuals of the 20th century, W.E.B. Du Bois encouraged intellectual development, economic independence, and helped found the NAACP. In his early career he experienced great success, but as his views moved toward Black Nationalism and socialism support for his ideas waned. By the end of his life, he had renounced his United States citizenship and moved to Ghana.

• W.E.B. Du Bois Quotes
  
• WE.B. Du Bois Writings

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