Ida B. Wells: Fearless Investigative Reporter of Southern Horrors

Born into slavery as Ida B. Wells in 1862, she was a pioneer of modern investigative journalism during the Reconstruction Era. After the lynching of her close friend, Thomas Moss, in 1892, Wells amplified her efforts on calling attention to the horrific treatment of black people through her investigative report, entitled Southern Horrors: Lynch Law in All Its Phases.

Wells enlightened readers on the wrongful convictions and brazen treatment of black people. In response to her efforts, she routinely faced adversity. And after she was driven out of Memphis, Tenn., she pressed forward and continued to fight injustices with her pen. It was her commitment to shedding light on the injustices of African-Americans that make her an admired figure in black history.

Hosted by Henry Louis Gates Jr. — with additional commentary from Vincent Brown of Harvard University and Imani Perry of Princeton University — we rejoice in the legacy of Wells in this episode of Black History in Two Minutes or So.

Archival Materials Courtesy of:

Alamy Images
Getty Images
Library of Congress

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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