This biographical reference covers prominent black individuals from around the world. Illustrated entries provide not only biographical details, but also list writings and sources for further reading. Profiles include: civil rights activists, such as Martin Luther King and Jesse Jackson; political, legal and government figures, such as Mobute Sese Seko, Colin Powell, Maxine Walters and L. Douglas Wilder; individuals in the worlds of science, technology and medicine, such as Benjamin Carson, Helene D. Gayle, Garrett Morgan and Daniel Hale;and authors, entertainers and other notable professionals. The text contains 70 full-length biographies, divided into the following sections: portrait; date and place of birth; family names; education; address; career data; meemberships; awards received; and books written.