Robert Tanner Freeman facts for kids

Robert Tanner Freeman (1846–1873) made history! He was chosen as one of the first six students to join Harvard's dental program. On March 10, 1869, he became the very first African American to earn a dental degree in the United States. This was a huge step forward!

Early Life and Education

Robert Freeman was born in 1846 near Washington, D.C.. His father was a carpenter. He worked hard to buy freedom for his family. Then they moved to Raleigh, North Carolina.

As a teenager, Robert found a mentor. This was Dr. Noble, a white dentist in Washington. Dr. Noble helped him learn about dentistry.

Freeman wanted to study dentistry at a university. But two schools turned him away. This was because of the color of his skin. Luckily, Harvard School of Dental Medicine opened its doors. They started a new policy. This policy treated all students fairly, no matter their race.

Freeman was accepted after an interview. The first dean, Dr. Nathan Cooley Keep, interviewed him. Robert was one of "the first six" students. They were the first to study at Harvard Dental School. On March 10, 1869, he graduated. He was the first African American to get a dental degree in the U.S.

His Dental Practice

After graduating, Freeman became a DMD. This means Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry. He then went back to Washington D.C. There, he opened his own dental practice. He even worked in the same building as his mentor, Dr. Noble.

Sadly, Robert Freeman passed away young. He got sick from a water-borne illness. This happened on June 10, 1873. He had been practicing dentistry for only four years.

His Lasting Impact

Robert Freeman's success was very important. He helped his African-American community. He also opened doors for big changes. He was a pioneer for minority dentists. He showed that anything was possible.

Freeman was the grandfather of Robert C. Weaver. Robert C. Weaver also made history. He was the first African American to serve in the U.S. Cabinet. He worked for President Lyndon B. Johnson. He was the Secretary of Housing & Urban Development.