Black History Quiz

From the jazz clubs of Bourbon Street to the far reaches of outer space, black Americans have made stunning contributions to American life.

From science literature to medicine to music, from the winning of wars to the winning of the West, from prizefights to the Nobel Peace Prize, black Americans have been involved. There is no aspect of American life that has not been touched by the achievement of black Americans.

The history of black Americans is the history of all Americans. Call on the past to enrich the future. People highlighted in this quiz represent the best individuals, who take the status of legends.

1. I was a famous scholar, with degrees from Fisk and Harvard universities. I was famous as one of the founders of Niagara Movement and the NAACP. I am very well known for my work entitled “The Souls of Black Folk.” Who am I?

2. I set up the first blood bank and spoke against the practice of grouping blood by race. In World War II, I was director of the Red Cross blood donor project. Ironically, in 1950 I died after an automobile accident from loss of blood. Who am I?

3. I was a helper and friend to Adm. Robert Perry on many journeys. In 1909, I became the first man to place the American flag at the North Pole. Who am I?

4. I knew that Americans are always celebrating weeks: Brotherhood Week, Education Week, and so on. Why not a Negro History Week? I made this idea a reality in 1926. Negro History Week has now been expanded to Black History Month. I am still known as the Father of Negro History Week. Who am I?

5. In 1966, I created Kwanzaa, a seven-day celebration of the ancestral values and cherished traditions that have kept black communities strong. Who am I?

6. I was an inventor and illustrator who worked for Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas Edison. I made several inventions that improved the light bulb. Who am I?

7. In 1923 I received a patent for the automatic traffic signal. In 1914 I received a patent for my “gas inhalator.” This was later converted into a gas mask. Who am I?

8. I was a noted black educator, lawyer and author. I wrote a series of dramatic poems entitled “God’s Trombones” in 1927. I am also known for writing the “Black National Anthem” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Who am I?

9. I made history by becoming the first black president of Cal State Fullerton. Who am I?

10. I am a resident of Santa Ana. I am producing artistic director of the Orange County Black Actors Theatre. Who am I?

Answers on B14

Black History Answers

Answers to quiz on B6

1. W. E. B. DuBois

2. Charles Drew

3. Matthew Henson

4. Carter G. Woodson

5. Ron Karenga

6. Lewis Latimer

7. Garrett A. Morgan

8. James Weldon Johnson

9. Jewel Plummer Cobb

10. Adleane Hunter