Lerone Bennett, Jr.

1987 Solomon Carter Fuller Award Recipient

Lecture Title: The Challenge of Blackness

Mr. Bennett, a distinguished figure, graduated from Morehouse College in 1949 and later served on the board of trustees of his alma mater, as well as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Center. He was bestowed with honorary doctorate degrees from prestigious institutions including Morehouse College, Marquette University, the University of Illinois, and Howard University, among others.

With a multifaceted career, Mr. Bennett excelled as an editor, poet, and historian, capturing the essence of Black American experiences. His journey began as a reporter for the Atlanta Daily World in 1949, where he chronicled pivotal moments in history. Transitioning to Ebony Magazine in 1958 as a senior editor, he embarked on journeys across Europe and Africa, delivering lectures at esteemed academic institutions.

Throughout his career, Mr. Bennett authored several impactful books, notably "Before the Mayflower: A History of Black America, 1619–1962," "Challenge of Blackness" (1972), "Shaping of Black America" (1975), and "Wade in the Water" (1979). In recognition of his literary contributions, he received the Literature Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters in 1978. Additionally, he was honored with the prestigious Solomon Carter Fuller Award in 1987.