William Pleasant Jr. facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Meriette Pleasant Jr.
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| Born | June 23, 1928 Savannah, Georgia, United States
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| Died | 1997 (aged 68–69) |
| Known for | Painting, Civil-rights activism |
| Children | Jalal Pleasant |
William Pleasant Jr. (born June 23, 1928 – died 1997) was an American artist and a strong voice for civil rights. He was known for his unique style of painting, called expressionism, which showed feelings and ideas rather than just what things looked like. Many of his paintings, especially his still-life works, are now kept at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.. You can see them at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Early Life and Activism
William Pleasant Jr. was born in Savannah, Georgia on June 23, 1928. His family was well-known in the community. For example, his relative Louis Pleasant helped start the Savannah Tribune, a newspaper that was then called the Savannah Colored Tribune. Louis also used to be in charge of the Savannah Ports Authority.
When William was a child, he even appeared on a national radio show called Major Bowles Amateur Hour. Even with his family's important contributions to society, their lives were still affected by the unfair racial rules of the Jim Crow South.
Fighting for Civil Rights
William Pleasant Jr. became very active in the Civil Rights Movement early on. This was a time when many people worked to end unfair treatment and segregation based on race. He often worked with his friend and fellow civil rights leader W. W. Law.
William cared deeply about the history and culture of African-American life in Savannah. He wanted to make sure these stories were remembered. In 1971, he published the first Black History coloring book. He was also a member of the Savannah branch of the NAACP, which is an important organization that fights for civil rights. He also served as a Corporal in the United States Army.
His Art and Legacy
In his paintings, William Pleasant Jr. wanted to capture and celebrate the everyday lives of African Americans in Savannah. He painted during a time of big changes and challenges because of the Civil Rights Movement. His art helped to show the strength and spirit of his community.
William Pleasant Jr. continued to work in the entertainment world until he passed away in 1997. He often worked as a voice-over actor for television. His paintings continue to be important records of a significant time in American history and a tribute to the people he wanted to remember.
