Marion Thompson Wright facts for kids

Marion Thompson Wright (September 12, 1902 – October 26, 1962) was an amazing African-American scholar and activist. She made history in 1940 by becoming the first African-American woman in the United States to earn her Ph.D. in history. A Ph.D. is the highest university degree you can get!

Who Was Marion Thompson Wright?

Marion Manola Thompson Wright was born in East Orange, New Jersey, on September 12, 1902. Her parents were Minnie and Moses R. Thompson. She was the youngest of four children.

Even as a teenager, Marion showed how determined she was. She attended Barringer High School in Newark, New Jersey. She was one of only two Black students there. She bravely spoke up about the unfairness she saw in the New Jersey school system. Marion faced challenges in her personal life but always put her education first. She was very dedicated to her studies, even when it was difficult.

Her Journey to Education

After high school, Marion went to Howard University. She earned her bachelor's degree in 1927. She then continued her studies at Howard, earning her master's degree in both History and Education.

Earning Her Ph.D.

After her master's, Marion attended Teachers College, Columbia University. Here, she began working on her very important Ph.D. paper, called a dissertation. Her dissertation was titled "The Education of Negroes in New Jersey." It focused on the state of education for Black students. It showed how schools were often separated by race (segregated) and unfair. In 1940, Marion Thompson Wright became the first Black woman in the United States to earn her Ph.D. in History. This was a huge achievement!

Teaching and Activism

After earning her Ph.D., Dr. Wright went back to Howard University to teach. She started the Negro History Bulletin to help students learn about Black history.

Fighting for Equality

In the 1950s, she worked with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). This group works to ensure equal rights for all people. Dr. Wright's important research from her dissertation was even used in the famous Brown v. Board of Education court case. This case led to the end of segregated schools in the United States.

Her Lasting Legacy

Marion Thompson Wright passed away at the age of 60 on October 26, 1962. Her work continues to inspire many people.

Each year, Rutgers University–Newark hosts an event called the Marion Thompson Wright Lecture Series. This special event is part of the celebration of Black History Month. It honors her memory and her important contributions to history and education. In February 2018, Rutgers celebrated their 38th annual lecture series.