One notable Black figure in American history who served as a Cabinet member was Robert C. Weaver. In 1966, Weaver made history by becoming the first African American to serve in a presidential Cabinet when President Lyndon B. Johnson appointed him as the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). During his tenure, Weaver worked towards expanding fair housing opportunities in the United States and improving urban development programs to benefit marginalized communities. Prior to serving in the Cabinet, Weaver had a distinguished career in academia and public service, advocating for equal rights and social justice.