Famous Black Historical Personalities

Jean-Jacques Dessalines was an important figure and leader of the Haitian Revolution. He went on to rule an independent Haiti, which became the first country to abolish slavery permanently. Considered one of Haiti's founding fathers, Dessalines reigned as the emperor of Haiti from 1804 until his murder in 1806. Today, he is regarded as an icon of Haitian nationalism.

Sobhuza II was the king of Swaziland from 1899 to 1982, although his coronation took place in 1921 as he was too young to rule early in his reign. His reign of 82 years and 254 days makes him the longest-reigning monarch in recorded history. Sobhuza II played a key role in events that eventually led to his country's independence.

Queen Nzinga, also known as Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba, was the queen of the Kingdoms of Ndongo and Matamba. Born into the family of Ndongo, Nzinga assumed power after the demise of her father and sibling, after which she fought for the stature and Independence of her kingdoms from the Portuguese. Her reign lasted 37 years.