Barbara Rose Johns

About

African American civil rights activist. At the age of 16, she played a pivotal role in the American civil rights movement by leading a student protest against racial segregation in public schools. Nearly 450 students participated in the strike, demanding equal facilities and educational opportunities for African American students. Her actions caught the attention of the NAACP, who saw an opportunity to challenge racial segregation in public schools.

Before Fame

While residing in Prince Edward County, she received her education in racially segregated public schools.

Trivia

She was a vocal civil rights activist, known for his outspoken advocacy.

Family Life

She was born in New York City, New York. However, her family had ancestral ties to Prince Edward County, Virginia, which led them to settle there. Her mother was employed by the U.S. Navy in Washington D.C., while her father managed the family farm. She was the eldest among her four siblings. She married William Powell, and the couple raised five children together. She lived in Philadelphia until her death in 1991.

Associated With

Similar to Coretta Scott King, she played a significant role in the civil rights movement.