Student Historian

Candace Staten is an undergraduate at the University of Washington, who plans to graduate in the Winter of 2014 with a bachelor’s of arts degree in social science, and emphasis in communications. She has as a strong interest in African American studies, cultural ethnography, and race relations, and hopes to pursue social scientific research upon graduation.

 

William Paul Quinn (1788-1873)

Bishop William Paul Quinn was the fourth Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church. He was instrumental in establishing several AME churches in U.S. midwestern states during the pre-Civil War period.  His work for the black Methodist community was highly regarded.  That work included … Read MoreWilliam Paul Quinn (1788-1873)

Manning Marable (1950-2011)

William Manning Marable was an influential social commentator, writer, and professor of political science, public affairs, history, and African American studies.   He was born on May 13, 1950 in Dayton, Ohio to James and June Morehead Marable. Previously married twice, he married anthropologist Leith Mullings … Read MoreManning Marable (1950-2011)

Anthony Overton (1865-1946)

Born a slave in the waning months of the Civil War, Anthony Overton became the first African American to own a major conglomerate.  His vast business empire included the Overton Hygienic Manufacturing Company, The Half-Century Magazine, Douglass National Bank, The Victory Life Insurance Company, The … Read MoreAnthony Overton (1865-1946)

Vada Watson Somerville (1885-1972)

Vada Somerville “Image Ownership: Public Domain” Vada Somerville was the first African American female dentist educated at the University of Southern California School of dentistry, and the second African American graduate in the university’s history.  Graduating in 1918, Somerville was the only African American student … Read MoreVada Watson Somerville (1885-1972)

Fannie Barrier Williams (1855-1944)

Fannie Barrier Williams was an educator, political activist, and women’s rights advocate who worked for advancement opportunities of African Americans. She called especially for social and educational reforms to improve the plight of black women in the Southern States of the U.S. Barrier was born … Read MoreFannie Barrier Williams (1855-1944)

Claude Brunson (1958- )

“Image Ownership: Mississippi State Medical Association” Born in Auburn Alabama in 1958, Claude Brunson was raised in a town with a long history of racial segregation in public accommodations and education.  Recalling his grandmother’s history, he notes that during her adolescence, blacks were not allowed … Read MoreClaude Brunson (1958- )