Booker T. Washington
1856–1915 (age 59)
Educator
Biography
Booker T. Washington was born into the shadow of slavery and rose to become one of the most influential educators and advocates for African American advancement in the post-Civil War era. As the founding principal of Tuskegee Institute, he championed practical education, resilience, and self-reliance for generations of students.
His thoughtful leadership and tireless work to build institutions and foster economic empowerment left an enduring legacy of hope and uplift that continues to guide the educational mission at Tuskegee.