Durham, North Carolina, has a rich history in the African American community, particularly in the realms of business, education, and civil rights activism.

One of the most notable aspects of Durham's Black history is the legacy of the African American business community in the area. Durham's Black entrepreneurship flourished in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the form of Black-owned tobacco businesses. The establishment of institutions like the North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company (founded in 1898) and the Mechanics and Farmers Bank (founded in 1907) by African American entrepreneurs played a significant role in the economic empowerment of the Black community in Durham and beyond.

In the realm of education, Durham is home to historically Black institutions such as North Carolina Central University (NCCU), which was founded in 1910 as the National Religious Training School and Chautauqua for the Colored Race. NCCU has played a vital role in providing higher education opportunities for African Americans in the region and has a long history of producing influential Black leaders in various fields.

Durham also has a strong legacy of civil rights activism and organizing. In the mid-20th century, Durham was a hub for civil rights activities, with local leaders and organizations working to challenge segregation and advocate for equal rights and opportunities for African Americans. Notable figures like Floyd McKissick, a civil rights activist and lawyer, and the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) had a significant impact on the civil rights movement in Durham.

Overall, Durham's Black history is a story of resilience, entrepreneurship, education, and activism that has shaped the city and had a lasting impact on the broader African American community in North Carolina and beyond.