This book provides capsule biographies of 909 of the nation's most notable African Americans. The entries are arranged alphabetically, with all individuals meeting two general criteria for inclusion: They were born or they spent their childhoods in the United States; and they have played an important part in the development of African American children by serving as role models. Anyone who died before January 1, 1995, is not included.

Activists, artists, athletes, attorneys, authors, business owners, educators, engineers, entertainers, government officials, medical doctors, military leaders and scientists: each person in this book has played a major role in 20th century America.