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Mary McLeod Bethune

Civil Rights Leader

Birthday July 10, 1875

Birth Sign Cancer

Birthplace Mayesville, SC

DEATH DATE May 18, 1955 (79)

#39140 Most Popular

About

Founder of Bethune-Cookman University, one of the earliest educational institutions that catered to black students. She was often referred to as "The First Lady of The Struggle" by her supporters.

Before Fame

She was a teacher at Haines Normal and Industrial Institute, which was founded and run by Lucy Craft Laney.

Trivia

Her Daytona home is now a Historic Landmark and the university itself is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

Family Life

She was born to former slaves and had to help the family work on the fields at age 5.

Associated With

She was an advisor for Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidential campaign and became part of his famed "Black Cabinet."

Video

Mary McLeod Bethune Highlights
Mary McLeod Bethune Highlights