Naomi Barber King (1931–2024), civil rights activist 

Naomi Barber King was a civil rights activist who married Rev. Alfred Daniel Williams King (1930–1969), brother of Rev. .

The Lives Martin Luther King Touched

The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. has inspired generations in the United States and around the world. A martyr for and the struggle, King was a voice for peace in one of the most tumultuous periods in American history.

The Burt Lancaster Centennial

From handsome tough guy to great filmmaker: 10 facts about Hollywood movie star Burt Lancaster.

Ossie Davis: Success on His Own Terms

On Feb. 4, 2005, the world lost a great champion of civil rights, who overcame racism and prejudice to become one of the most-honored actors of his generation. Today we look back at accomplished and outspoken Ossie Davis.

The Powerful Mahalia Jackson

Mahalia Jackson (1911–1972) was known as the "Queen of Gospel" and "the single most powerful Black woman in the United States."

Odetta Sings Folk Songs

Odetta may not be as much a household name as Bob Dylan—but it was she who inspired him to pick up an acoustic guitar and sing folk music. She might not have the folk-music fame of Joan Baez, but Baez called her a goddess. Carly Simon may have been the bigger star, but she said she went weak in the knees when she had a chance to meet Odetta.