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Alfred Oscar Coffin facts for kids

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Alfred Oscar Coffin
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Born
Alfred Oscar Coffin

(1861-05-14)May 14, 1861
Died 1933
Resting place Unknown
Education PhD in biology from Illinois Wesleyan University (1889)
Alma mater Fisk University
Occupation Professor

Alfred Oscar Coffin was an important American professor. He was born on May 14, 1861, and passed away in 1933. He taught subjects like mathematics and Romance languages. Coffin is famous for being the first African American to earn a PhD in biology. This was a big achievement!

His Education Journey

Alfred Coffin studied at Fisk University. There, he earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees. Later, in 1889, he achieved something very special. He earned his PhD in biology from Illinois Wesleyan University. His important research paper, called a thesis, was titled 'The Origin of the Mound Builders'.

Teaching and Career

In 1887, Alfred Coffin started his teaching career. He taught for two years at Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College in Mississippi. From 1889 to 1895, he became a professor at Wiley University. This university was located in Marshall, Texas. He taught mathematics and Romance languages there. Later in his life, he also worked as a booking agent for the famous musician John William Boone.

Early Life

Alfred Coffin was born on May 14, 1861. His hometown was Pontotoc, Mississippi.

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