African-American biographies

Discusses the personal and professional life of the statesman and diplomat who was one of the founders of the United Nations and who received the Nobel Prize for his peacemaking efforts.

Contains a brief biography of Wilma Rudolph, Olympic runner, and includes information on her poor childhood in rural Tennessee, her achievements at the 1956 and 1960 Olympic Games, and her legacy.

Tells the life story of nineteenth- and twentieth-century actor Paul Robeson, describing his childhood, his achievements, and his legacy.

Examines the life of poet and author Maya Angelou, discussing her difficult childhood, her education, and her marriages and son, and looking at her accomplishments as the first African-American streetcar conductor in San Francisco, as an entertainer, writer, and civil rights activist.

Presents a brief biography of Mary McLeod Bethune, education and civil rights activist, describing her childhood, and her achievements--including the founding of the Bethune-Cookman College--and her work with Franklin Roosevelt on behalf of African-Americans.

Presents a brief biography of Henry Louis Gates Jr. African-American author and scholar, including information on his childhood, family life, and academic achievements.

Tells the life story of Bill Russell--whose career as an outstanding rebounder for the Boston Celtics led him to become the first African-American elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame and the first African-American to coach in the NBA--describing his childhood, his achievements, and his legacy.

Tells the life story of 1920s blues singer Bessie Smith, describing her childhood, her achievements, and her legacy.

Tells the life story of poet Langston Hughes, describing his childhood, his literary accomplishments, his efforts to promote racial and cultural understanding, and his legacy.

Presents a brief biography of Aretha Franklin, African-American soul and gospel singer, best known for her song "Respect, " and includes information on her early life, her musical accomplishments, and her legacy. Includes time line.