Martin R. Delany (1812-1885)
Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
A promoter of African-American nationalism, Delany published a Black newspaper, The Mystery, at an office near here. He attended Harvard Medical School, practiced medicine in Pittsburgh, and was commissioned as a major in the Civil War.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
From an office near this spot in Pittsburgh, Martin R. Delany published The Mystery, an early African American newspaper, and became a leading voice for Black self-determination and emigrationist thought decades before such ideas were widespread. He studied briefly at Harvard Medical School, practiced medicine in the city, and during the Civil War was commissioned a major—among the first Black field officers in the U.S. Army.
Why it matters
Often called the father of Black nationalism, Delany insisted on Black pride and independence in an age of slavery, and his wartime commission helped open the officer ranks to African Americans.
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Related people
- · Martin R. Delany
Related events
- · Publication of The Mystery
Themes & tags
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