Decades before Brown v. Board of Education, a Supreme Court decision favored the continued segregation of schools by race.

The often controversial activist called homosexuals an "oppressed minority."

The larger-than-life writer found unyielding companionship and support from her fellow American expatriate in Paris.

An unexpected best-selling book by Amy Tan turned into a box office success, yet it wasn’t until 2018 that its effects stuck.

The two activist forged an unlikely bond in the 1960s while fighting for racial equality.

The inventors' different approaches to creating a standardized electrical system ultimately drove them apart.

With their leadership and bravery, these trailblazing activists left a lasting mark on American history, fighting for civil rights, labor rights and everything in between.

The royal couple's love story had a romantic beginning but their relationship was rattled by her early ascension to the throne five years into their marriage.

From his lavish purchases to how he met his ex-wife, Melinda, here are some facts about the Microsoft billionaire.

Here are five fun facts from the life of baseball's most celebrated slugger.

The author, who committed suicide at the age of 61, often struggled – like several other members of his family.

From a childhood of forced twinhood to his plan to weaponize jai alai players during World War II, here are some facts about the famed writer.

The "Queen of Gospel" used her powerhouse vocals to serenade heads of state and inspire demonstrators for social change.

The gospel singer’s spontaneous action led the orator to go off script during his 1963 March on Washington address.

The Cuban-born singer got her start playing gigs in her hometown and went on to become one of the most visible Black women in Latin music.

The Federal Bureau of Narcotics relentlessly pursued Holiday, the chase largely fueled by commissioner Harry Anslinger's biases.

From the origins of his name to how he played his final pro game for both teams, here are some facts about the Brazilian soccer star.

The first Black U.S. congresswoman and major-party presidential candidate knew how to shake up the status quo with her pointed words.

The celebrated author vividly wrote and pinpointed the atrocities racial inequality inflicted on Black Americans, both in fiction and nonfiction.

The first lady and activist came from drastically different backgrounds but bonded over their mutual belief in the power of education and desire to champion civil rights causes.

These African American leaders left a lasting mark with their contributions in music, art, literature and so much more.

What started off as a hashtag on a Facebook post has become a national rallying cry for equality.

The daughter of formerly enslaved people, Bethune went on to become an influential figure in education and the highest-ranking Black woman in the U.S. government.

The self-made scholar promoted "Negro History Week" as part of efforts to embed Black studies into the American education system.