John Hope Franklin was a prominent African American historian whose groundbreaking work focused on the history of African Americans in the United States. Born in 1915, Franklin made significant contributions to the understanding of Black history and the struggle for civil rights.

Franklin is best known for his landmark book, "From Slavery to Freedom: A History of African Americans," first published in 1947. This seminal work provided a comprehensive survey of African American history from the time of slavery through the civil rights movement. It has since become a classic text in the field and has been widely used in classrooms around the country.

In addition to his academic research and writing, Franklin was a dedicated educator and mentor to countless students. He taught at a number of prestigious institutions, including Howard University, the University of Chicago, and Duke University, where he was the first African American department chair. Franklin also served as president of the American Historical Association, the Organization of American Historians, and the Southern Historical Association.

Throughout his career, Franklin was a vocal advocate for racial equality and social justice. He participated in various civil rights activities and was a consultant to several government agencies and organizations. His work helped to shape our understanding of the African American experience and the ongoing struggle for equality in America.

John Hope Franklin passed away in 2009, but his legacy lives on through his contributions to the field of Black history and his commitment to advancing the cause of civil rights. He is remembered as a pioneering scholar, educator, and activist who played a crucial role in shaping our understanding of African American history.