Black Explorers

While history celebrates the explorations of many white voyagers, there are multiple black people who successfully explored sea, land, and space, and in many instances, are often overlooked.

Spanish conquistadors brought an enslaved African by the name of Esteban on a failed trip to the US mainland.  Matthew Henson, linked with a renowned Admiral, was able to go all the way to the North Pole. Guion Bluford, Ronald McNair, and Mae Jemison, were accomplished scientists and engineers who were enlisted in the astronaut corps.

These black pioneers have been fortunate enough to enter spaces many thought that black people were not able occupy. Hosted by Henry Louis Gates Jr.— with additional commentary from Evelynn Hammonds of Harvard University, let’s look at some of our unsung explorers have left their mark all over the world as we know it.

Archival Materials Courtesy of:

Associated Press
Alamy Images
Getty Images
Library of Congress
Queens Borough Public Library
United States Patent and Trademark Office

Executive Producers:
Robert F. Smith
Henry Louis Gates Jr.
Dyllan McGee
Deon Taylor

Music By:
Oovra Music

Be Woke presents is brought to you by Robert F. Smith and Deon Taylor.

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