Black History Month: Black Icons Influenced by Travel

There have been many notable African Americans who have traveled abroad and made significant contributions in various fields. Here are a few examples:

1. Langston Hughes

A renowned poet, novelist, and playwright, Langston Hughes traveled extensively throughout his life. He visited countries such as France, Spain, Italy, and the Soviet Union, where he gained inspiration for his works and connected with other artists and intellectuals.

2. Josephine Baker

Josephine Baker, an iconic entertainer and civil rights activist, traveled extensively throughout Europe. She gained fame in France and became a symbol of the Jazz Age. Baker used her platform to challenge racial stereotypes and advocate for equality.

3. Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou, a celebrated poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist, lived in several countries, including Egypt and Ghana. It was also during this time that Malcolm X visited Ghana; a meeting which prompted Angelou to move back to the US in 1965 to help Malcolm X build his Organization of Afro-American Unity (the organization he built when he broke away from the Nation of Islam). Her experiences abroad influenced her writing and activism, and she became a global voice for social justice.

4. W.E.B. Du Bois

W.E.B. Du Bois, a prominent sociologist, historian, and civil rights activist, traveled extensively throughout his life. He visited Europe, Africa, and Asia, engaging with intellectuals and leaders from around the world. Du Bois's travels informed his understanding of global racial dynamics and influenced his activism.


These are just a few examples of notable African Americans who have traveled abroad and made significant contributions in their respective fields. Their experiences abroad have shaped their perspectives, influenced their work, and contributed to the advancement of African American culture and civil rights.