Noted African Americans

Learn about noted African Americans, many born in South Carolina, with local and national accomplishments.

Briggs v. Elliot | The World of Cecil

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This segment explores the early 1950s and the significant role South Carolina, particularly Clarendon County, played in the civil rights movement. It discusses Thurgood Marshall's arrival in South...
Harvey Gantt | Carolina Snaps

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Uncover the inspiring story of Harvey Gantt, the first black student to break barriers at Clemson University and later become Charlotte's first black mayor.
Elizabeth Evelyn Wright | Carolina Snaps

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Elizabeth Evelyn Wright’s dream of establishing a school in South Carolina would come true in 1897. Elizabeth Evelyn Wright, a graduate of Tuskegee Institute, had a deep desire to open a school where...
Mary McLeod Bethune | Carolina Snaps

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Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune is hailed as one of the most influential African American educators and Civil Rights figures, during the first half of the 20th century. Born on a cotton farm in Mayesville, SC...
Maude Callen | Carolina Snaps

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Orphaned at the age of six, Maude Callen, became an “Angel in Twilight” to many as she singlehandedly brought health care to a poverty-stricken community. After becoming orphaned, Maude went to live...
Robert Smalls | Carolina Snaps

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Robert Smalls was a former slave and Civil War hero who made a significant impact on American history. Born into slavery in Beaufort, South Carolina in 1839, Smalls worked on the docks and was trained...
Chief Justice Ernest Finney | Carolina Snaps

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Ernest Finney was the first African American chief justice of the South Carolina Supreme Court. He left an indelible mark on the legal system with his unwavering commitment to justice and equality...
Nikky Finney

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Nikky Finney, daughter of the late SC Supreme Court Chief Justice Ernest A. Finney, Jr., recites her poem, " He Never Had It Made" on the occasion of his installation to the S.C. Supreme Court. Just...