African American History In Texas
by Vincent C Taylor
The Beginning
The first African arrived in Texas in 1528 escaping the Spanish exploring expedition. His name was Estevan. He brought skills and cultural ideas from Spain and Africa. He spoke Arabic and Spanish. Mr. Estevan lead the way for future African Texas to explore their dreams.
Discrimination to Participation in the 20th Century
During a time when African American Texans were faced with discrimination in jobs, segregation in public schools, and voting limitations all over the Southern region; several African American Texas excelled and realized their dreams in other areas to help bring recognition to the African culture.
Famous African Texans
Bessie Coleman
She was born January 26, 1892, in Atlanta, Texas. She learned to fly in France and received her license in 1921, making her the first African American to obtain a pilot's license.
Andrew "Rube" Foster
He was born September 17,1879 in Calvert, Texas. He was a baseball pitcher, manager, and organized the Negro National League of African American professional baseball players. His nickname, "Rube", came from an exhibition victory against Rube Waddell a star pitcher.
John Briggers
He was born April 13,1924 in Gastonia, North California born to a Father who was preacher and teacher. He moved to Texas in 1949, and taught at Texas Southern University in Houston in the Art department and was a famous painter.
The End and Beyond
African American Texas always contributed to the culture and economic growth of Texas. Though their struggle for equality has not been easy; African American Texas created their own communities for freedom of religion, to marry, and better wages after the emancipation. The lives of African Americans in Texas forced many moved to Northern cities in search of a better ways of living for their family. Those who stayed; build churches, businesses, and a foundation for future generations. Their stories of struggle and overcoming challenges continue to make a contribution to the culture and society of the Lone Star State today.