The African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church holds a significant place in Black history as one of the oldest and most prominent African American Christian denominations in the United States. It was founded in 1816 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, by Richard Allen, a formerly enslaved man who had purchased his freedom.

The AME Church was established in response to the racial discrimination and segregation African Americans faced in predominantly white Methodist churches. The church provided a space for Black worshippers to practice their faith freely and led the way in promoting social justice and equality for African Americans.

Throughout history, the AME Church has been a leading voice in the fight for civil rights and social justice. It played a crucial role in the abolitionist movement, the Underground Railroad, and the push for equal rights during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s.

Today, the AME Church continues to be a powerful force for positive change in Black communities, advocating for racial equality, economic empowerment, and social justice. Its long history of activism and leadership in the Black community has left an indelible mark on Black history and the broader American society.