The most popular example would probably be the king of pop Michael Jackson, who revolutionized world music with his style. Many of his songs have topped the ‘Billboard Hot 100’ charts. African American men and women made great contributions to American society throughout the 20th century, advancing civil rights as well as science, government, sports, and entertainment. Stevie Wonder, Jimi Hendrix, Whitney Houston, Beyonce and Nina Simone are a few other African American singers who have made their community proud. Books like Ralph Ellison's "Invisible Man" and "Beloved" by Toni Morrison are masterpieces of fiction, while Maya Angelou and Alex Haley have made major contributions to literature, poetry, autobiography, and pop culture.African Americans have advocated for civil rights since the earliest days of the United States. Michael, or MJ as he’s popularly known, is a recipient of 13 Grammy awards. Several famous actors, musicians, and athletes were born in Africa. But African Americans have been essential to all aspects of music, from opera singer Marian Anderson to pop icon Michael Jackson.Famous African American Men and Women of the 20th Century.Jennifer Rosenberg is a historian and writer who specializes in 20th-century history.Politicians, Lawyers, and Other Government Leaders,Brooks Kraft / CORBIS / Corbis via Getty Images,6 Revealing Autobiographies by African American Thinkers,Black History and Women Timeline 1990 to 1999,Biography of John Lewis, Civil Rights Activist and Politician,The 'Big Six' Organizers of the Civil Rights Movement,A List of Holidays of Interest to Black Americans,African-American Men and Women of the Progressive Era,16th Street Baptist Church Bombing: History and Legacy,African-American History from 1950 to 1959,African-American History Timeline: 1965 to 1969,B.A., History, University of California at Davis. They are also very popular in Africa and other parts of the world. Charles Drew's work in blood transfusions, for example, saved thousands of lives during World War II and is still used in medicine today. Some, like Olympic track star Jackie Joyner-Kersee, have set new records for athletic achievement. He has also been felicitated with 26 American music Awards for his incredible talent. His tracks such as ‘Beat It’, ‘Thriller’, ‘Billie Jean’ and ‘Black or White’ are anthems among the youth even today. Others, like Jackie Robinson, also are remembered for courageously breaking longstanding racial barriers in their sport.No survey of 20th-century American literature would be complete without major contributions from Black writers.

African American men and women made great contributions to American society throughout the 20th century, advancing civil rights as well as science, government, sports, and entertainment. Whether you are researching a topic for Black History Month or just want to learn more, this listing of famous African Americans will help you find people who truly achieved greatness.

By using our website, you agree to the use of cookies.Kanye West is an American hip-hop musician, rapper, lyricist, record producer, film director and fashion designer.Snoop Dogg is an American rapper and actor who emerged as one of the best-known figures in gangsta rap during the 1990s,Coolio is a well-known American rap artist, musician and record producer,Nelly is a Grammy Award winning American rapper and actor,Ice Cube is an American hip hop artist, actor and record producer,Lauryn Noelle Hill is a famous hip-hop female artist from America who is into singing, songwriting, rapping, production and acting,Orlando Brown is an African-American actor, rapper, voice actor, and singer,Will Smith is a famous American actor and singer, who is known for his performances in movies like ‘I am Legend’ and ‘Hancock’,Dr Dre (Andre Romelle Young) is an American rapper, producer and entrepreneur,Popularly referred to as King of Pop, Michael Jackson created history in the world of music with his chartbuster albums. Some, like Sidney Poitier, challenged racial attitudes with his role in popular films like "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner," while others, such as Oprah Winfrey, have become media moguls and cultural icons.Innovations and advancements of Black scientists and educations transformed life in the 20th century. Amanda was born on the 23rd of July 1956, at Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Below is a list of some of the most famous African-Americans of all time. Many individuals of African American descent have made waves in the recent past for their prowess in music and have earned many accolades including prestigious awards for their efforts. Leaders like Martin Luther King, Jr., and Malcolm X are two of the best-known civil rights leaders of the 20th century.