African Americans have been a part of Missouri from its territorial days to the present, making significant contributions across myriad professions as pioneers, educators, civil rights activists, and journalists, to name a few. Now in its second edition, Extraordinary Black Missourians profiles more than 100 notable citizens, such as Grace Bumbry, George Washington Carver, Elizabeth Keckley, Frankie Freeman, Scott Joplin, Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, James Beckwourth, and others who have contributed to Missouri’s African American legacy.
They set records; made discoveries; received local, national, and international acclaim and awards; and led the civil rights movement by breaking down racial barriers. These accomplishments have played a major role in shaping the history and culture of the state and nation.
Co-authors John A. Wright, Sr., Sylvia A. Wright, and John A. Wright, Jr. bring decades of experience writing about their native St. Louis and the heritage of African Americans in their hometown. Extraordinary Black Missourians puts a face on historically significant people and tells of their joys, failures, hardships, and triumphs against seemingly insurmountable odds.