This Week in History, July 14–20 Contributions of African-Americans

Note: Here, learn about some of the African-Americans who have influenced history and contributed to the culture we now enjoy. To learn more about each individual, click on that person's name. July 14 On this day in 1843, pioneer African-American artist Edmonia Lewis was born. The first woman sculptor of African-American and Native American heritage, she drew on her dual ancestry in her art. July 15 On this day in 1867, African-American businesswoman and civic leader Maggie Walker was born. She was the first Black woman bank president in America—and her bank, one of few in Virginia to survive the Depression, remains solvent to this day. Also on this day in 1895, composer and musician William Still was born. He was the first African-American to conduct a major symphony orchestra. July 16 On this day in 1923, educator and writer Mari Evans was born. An assistant professor at Cornell University, her works have been included in more than 400 anthologies and textbooks. Also on this day in 1882, attorney, judge, and magistrate Violette Anderson was born. She was the first African-American woman to be admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court. July 17 On this day in 1888, a patent was issued for the Gong and Signal Chair. Its inventor, Miriam E. Benjamin, was the second Black woman to receive a patent. Her chair was the forerunner of airplane seats used today to alert flight attendants. July 18 On this day in 1863, William Carney became the first Black to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor; he was recognized for bravery in action during the Civil War. Also on this day in 1918, Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela was born. He served as the first Black president of South Africa. July 19 On this day in 1863, African-American historian and educator Kelly Miller was born. Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University, he wrote a weekly column proposing ideas for global racial equality. July 20 On this day in 2002, Fred Gray, Sr., was installed as the first Black president of the Alabama State Bar Association. He is the attorney who defended Rosa Parks in her landmark bus segregation case.