Richard Allen was a prominent figure in Black history as one of the most important early African American religious and civil rights leaders. Born into slavery in Philadelphia in 1760, Allen eventually purchased his freedom in 1783. He went on to become a prominent minister and founded the first independent Black denomination in the United States, the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, in 1816.

Allen was a key figure in the fight against slavery and discrimination, advocating for the rights and equality of African Americans. He also played a significant role in the development of African American educational institutions, helping to establish the first Sunday school for African Americans in Philadelphia.

In addition to his religious and civil rights work, Richard Allen was also a community leader and entrepreneur, founding the Free African Society, which provided mutual aid and support to African Americans in need. He was a powerful voice for equality and justice during a time of great racial oppression, and his legacy continues to inspire and empower the African American community today.