Heroes of the Colored Race

Four scenes illustrate significant contributions made by African Americans and surround portraits of prominent figures who fought for equality in United States history. These scenes show how African Americans labored, fought, learned, and were civically engaged in the nineteenth century. Though the prominent figures pictured here are of men, many women including Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Maria W. Stewart, Henrietta Purvis, Harriet Forten Purvis, Sarah Remond, Mary Ann Shadd Cary, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Susan B. Anthony were among those who advanced civil rights for African Americans.

This print honors prominent individuals who advocated for the civil and political rights of African Americans during the Reconstruction era. At center, the world-famous abolitionist Frederick Douglass is flanked by portraits of Blanche Bruce and Hiram Revels of Mississippi, the first Black senators (and the last until 1967). Four Black members of the House of Representatives appear in the corners: John Lynch (Mississippi), Joseph Rainey (South Carolina), Robert Smalls (South Carolina), and Charles Nash (Louisiana). American flag motifs surround portraits of Presidents Abraham Lincoln, James Garfield, and Ulysses S. Grant (at top), as well as abolitionist John Brown (below).

The history and accomplishments of unsung Black heroes appear in each of the four corners. Above, scenic vignettes highlight the economic contributions ...