Melvin B. Tolson (1898-1966)

Melvin B. Tolson (1898-1966)

Born on February 6, 1898 in Moberly, Missouri, Melvin Beaunorus Tolson is known as one of the most significant African American modernist poets of his time. In addition, Tolson’s work as an educator led Langston Hughes to declare him “the most famous Negro Professor...
Frances Rains (1911-2006)

Frances Rains (1911-2006)

Frances Mary McHie Rains, an African American community worker, educator, businesswoman, and nurse, was born on January 29, 1911 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  Inspired by local black activist and businesswoman W. Gertrude Brown, McHie decided to become a social worker. ...
Tulsa Race Massacre (1921)

Tulsa Race Massacre (1921)

The Tulsa, Oklahoma Race Massacre was one of the worst urban racial conflicts in United States history.  Two days of violence by whites against Blacks left an estimated 50 people dead, hundreds injured, and more than 1,000 Black-owned homes and businesses destroyed....
Alberta Hunter (1895-1984)

Alberta Hunter (1895-1984)

Alberta Hunter was born in Memphis, Tennessee, but left for Chicago, Illinois at age 11 after her father died. She peeled potatoes in a boarding house until she could find a job singing blues, the first opportunity was at a Chicago brothel, as entertainment for the...