The HistoryMakers

The largest African American video oral history archive in the world, The HistoryMakers has amassed a collection of over 1800 interviews of unknown and well-known African Americans who have made significant contributions to their respective fields, society, and history. The collection represents thousands of hours of videotape revealing the breadth and depth of this important part of American history as told in the first person. 

By capturing American history one person at a time, The HistoryMakers gives those involved their special place in history to educate the world about African American determination and achievement, as well as the importance of African American-led institutions, movements, and organizations.

The focus is on the contributions of African Americans in history, education, music, law, the arts, science, technology, media, medicine, entertainment, business, the military, politics and sports.  An unprecedented digital collection will be accessible to museums, libraries and schools, and through print media, radio, television, cable television and the Internet.

The national headquarters of The HistoryMakers is located in Chicago and is open (by appointment only) to those interested in the collection and contributing to its successful development.