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By Jessica McElrath, About.com Guide to African-American History

Explore the accomplishments of some of the most notable black Americans. They include black actors, singers, athletes, scientists, inventors, politicians, writers, astronauts, pilots, social reformers, and religious leaders.

  1. Biographies, Quotes, Photos
  2. Martin Luther King Jr.
  3. Malcolm X
  4. Rosa Parks
  5. Civil Rights Activists
  6. Other Activists
  7. Actors & Comedians
  8. Astronauts & Pilots
  1. Athletes
  2. Educators
  3. Musicians & Singers
  4. Public Officials/Politicians
  5. Religious Leaders
  6. Scientists & Inventors
  7. Soldiers
  8. Writers

Biographies, Quotes, Photos

Looking for biographies, quotes, or photos of famous African Americans? Check out these pages.

Martin Luther King Jr.

Courtesy of the Library of Congress

Martin Luther King Jr. was a central leader in the civil rights movement.

Malcolm X

Courtesy of Library of Congress

While Martin Luther King Jr. was preaching nonviolent resistance during the civil rights movement, Malcolm X was an advocate of Black Nationalism and the "true brotherhood" of man.

Rosa Parks

Courtesy of Library of Congress

Rosa Parks' decision not move to the back of a Montgomery bus sparked the civil rights movement.

Civil Rights Activists

Courtesy of Library of Congress

Learn more about the African Americans who committed their lives to the civil rights movement.

Other Activists

Courtesy of the National Archives

Take a look at the people who committed their lives to such causes as the abolition movement and the betterment of blacks.

Actors & Comedians

Photo by Brad Barket/Getty Images

From the early beginnings of film, stage, and television, parts for African American actors were scarce. Those that were available were often servant roles. Take a look at America's past and present black entertainers.

Astronauts & Pilots

Photo courtesy of NASA.

Articles about African American pilots and astronauts.

Athletes

Black athletes have not always had it easy; for many, the color line and discrimination defined and limited their success. Nevertheless, African American history is full of exceptional athletes.

Educators

Courtesy of the Library of Congress

Some of the most influential blacks have come from the field of education.

Musicians & Singers

Photo by Peter Hogan/Getty Images

From the blues to hip hop, African Americans have played a central influence in music.

Public Officials/Politicians

Today, some of the most powerful blacks have worked alongside the president.

Religious Leaders

Religious leaders have been instrumental in the black community.

Scientists & Inventors

Courtesy of the National Archives

Black inventors and doctors who have made a difference.

Soldiers

Courtesy of Florida Photographic Collection.

African Americans have been part of the American military experience from the time of the country's founding to today.

Writers

The Harlem Renaissance was a time when African Americans created great work; but beyond this time there were numerous others who have produced notable work.

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