Kelly Miller

Date of Birth: July 23, 1863

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: December 29, 1939

Biography

Kelly Miller was born on July 23, 1863, in Winnsboro, South Carolina. He was an influential sociologist, mathematician, and civil rights advocate who made significant contributions to the intellectual life of African Americans in the early 20th century. Miller was the first African American to be admitted to Johns Hopkins University and later became a pivotal figure at Howard University. As a professor and dean at Howard, he served as a mentor and leader, championing the cause of higher education for African Americans. Over his career, Miller wrote extensively on race relations, sociology, and education, and he was a vocal advocate for the improvement of the conditions of African Americans through education and civic engagement.

5 Interesting Facts about Kelly Miller

1. Kelly Miller was the first African American to attend Johns Hopkins University, where he studied mathematics, physics, and astronomy.

2. He became the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University, serving from 1907 to 1919.

3. Miller was a prolific writer, contributing articles to numerous journals and newspapers on topics ranging from sociology to African American rights.

4. He played an integral role in the Niagara Movement, which was a precursor to the NAACP.

5. Miller was an advocate for the “Talented Tenth” philosophy, which argued that a well-educated elite could lead African Americans to greater social and economic advancement.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Kelly Miller

1. “The Negro is not a mere woodpile or an animated tool, but a human being with human aspirations, human rights, and human responsibilities.”

2. “Civilization is the balm that heals the wounds of barbarism.”

3. “Education is the key to unlock the golden door of freedom.”

4. “Progress is born of agitation. It is agitation or stagnation.”

5. “The hope of the future lies in the reconstruction of the past.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Kelly Miller did not accumulate significant personal wealth during his lifetime; his contributions were primarily in the realms of academia and civil rights.

Children

Kelly Miller had five children with his wife, Annie May Butler. Their names were Kelly Miller Jr., Paul H. Miller, May Miller, Irene Miller, and Donald Miller.