CLASS OVERVIEW

Learn about  Dr. Herbert Charles Smitherman Sr., the genius behind a lot of products we use.

BEFORE YOU GET STARTED:

• Please check the materials that go with this lesson and print relevant materials.
• Also, check out the books and products the teachers use for further learning.
• Reach out to support@urbanintellectuals.com if you have any questions or issues.
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Sources:

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Dr. Herbert Charles Smitherman Sr. (1937–2010) was a trailblazing chemist and educator who made significant contributions to science and diversity in STEM fields. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, he overcame racial barriers to achieve academic success, earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemistry from Tuskegee University and a Ph.D. in physical and organic chemistry from Howard University.

Dr. Smitherman was the first African American with a doctorate to be hired by Procter & Gamble, where he worked for nearly 29 years. He played a key role in improving products like Crest toothpaste, Bounce fabric softener, and Folgers coffee. Beyond his scientific achievements, he was a passionate advocate for diversity, helping to recruit and mentor minority students in science and engineering.

He also co-founded the National Organization for the Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers (NOBCChE) in 1972, which continues to inspire and support Black professionals in STEM[After leaving Procter & Gamble, he served as an academic leader and educator, leaving a lasting legacy of innovation and mentorship.

Dr. Smitherman’s life is a testament to breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations.

Dr. Herbert Smitherman Sr. helped with products like Crest toothpaste, Folgers coffee, or Bounce fabric softener. He played a pivotal role in improving these existing products during his tenure at Procter & Gamble. For example, he worked on enhancing the formulas for Crest and Safeguard soap, as well as contributing to flavors for Crush soda and Biz detergent

His legacy lies not just in product development but also in mentoring and paving the way for diversity in STEM fields.

1. Name 5 things that Granville Woods invented

Some of his notable inventions include the Synchronous Multiplex Railway Telegraph, which improved communication between trains and stations, and the overhead conducting system for railroads, which enabled trains to receive electrical power while in motion. He also developed innovations like the automatic air brake and the trolley wheel, enhancing safety and efficiency in transportation.

2. What did Benjamin Bradley invent?

Bradley created a steam engine powerful enough to propel a sloop-of-war at 16 knots, but as a slave, he was unable to patent his invention. He sold the engine and used the proceeds, along with contributions from Naval Academy professors, to purchase his freedom for $1,000 in 1859. After gaining his freedom, Bradley continued his work in engineering and contributed to the development of steam-powered vessels.

3. Name the car by an African American.

AVANTI

CLASS OVERVIEW

Come with us on a deeper dive about Granville Woods, Benjamin Bradley and learn about the new Avani electric car which was invented by an African American and can be bought today.

BEFORE YOU GET STARTED:

• Please check the materials that go with this lesson and print relevant materials.
• Also, check out the books and products the teachers use for further learning.
• Reach out to support@urbanintellectuals.com if you have any questions or issues.
• Some links may be affiliate links where we may earn a small commission from purchases.

Sources:

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/16CQL3UKMi/

Granville Woods, often called the “Black Edison,” was a pioneering African American inventor and engineer. Born on April 23, 1856, in Columbus, Ohio, he was largely self-taught and became the first African American mechanical and electrical engineer after the Civil War. Despite limited formal education, Woods held over 60 patents, many of which revolutionized railway systems and communication technologies.

Some of his notable inventions include the Synchronous Multiplex Railway Telegraph, which improved communication between trains and stations, and the overhead conducting system for railroads, which enabled trains to receive electrical power while in motion. He also developed innovations like the automatic air brake and the trolley wheel, enhancing safety and efficiency in transportation.

Woods faced significant challenges due to racial discrimination, often battling in court to retain rights to his inventions. He even defeated Thomas Edison in a legal dispute over patent rights.

Granville T. Woods, often called “The Black Edison,” was a brilliant inventor with over 50 patents to his name. Many of his inventions focused on improving railway systems and communication technologies. Some of his notable contributions include:

– **Synchronous Multiplex Railway Telegraph**: This allowed communication between moving trains and railway stations, improving safety and efficiency.
– **Automatic Air Brake**: Enhanced braking systems for trains, making them safer.
– **Improvements to Electric Railways**: He developed technologies for electric railway systems, including tunnel construction methods.
– **Combination Telephone and Telegraph**: A device that combined the functions of a telephone and telegraph, streamlining communication.

Woods’ work significantly advanced transportation and communications.

Granville T. Woods, often called the “Black Edison,” faced numerous challenges during his journey as an inventor. As an African American in the late 19th century, he had to navigate the racial prejudices and systemic barriers of the Reconstruction and Jim Crow eras. These societal challenges limited his access to formal education and resources, forcing him to rely on self-study to master electrical and mechanical engineering.

Woods also encountered significant legal and financial hurdles. He often had to defend his patents in court, including a notable legal battle with Thomas Edison over the “synchronous multiplex railway telegraph,” a device that improved train communication and safety. Despite these obstacles, Woods successfully retained his rights and gained recognition for his work.

Additionally, securing funding and support for his inventions was a constant struggle. Wealthy investors sometimes hesitated to back his projects, and he had to work tirelessly to prove the value of his innovations.

Through resilience and determination, Woods overcame these challenges, earning over 60 patents and leaving a lasting legacy in engineering and invention. His story is a testament to perseverance in the face of adversity.

Benjamin Bradley

Benjamin Bradley, also known as Benjamin Boardley, was an African American engineer and inventor born into slavery in Maryland in 1836. Despite his circumstances, he demonstrated remarkable mechanical skills from a young age, building a steam engine at just 16 years old.

Bradley created a steam engine powerful enough to propel a sloop-of-war at 16 knots, but as a slave, he was unable to patent his invention. He sold the engine and used the proceeds, along with contributions from Naval Academy professors, to purchase his freedom for $1,000 in 1859. After gaining his freedom, Bradley continued his work in engineering and contributed to the development of steam-powered vessels.

His story is a testament to resilience and ingenuity in the face of adversity.

The Avani electric car was developed by **Derek Automotive**, a company based in the **United States**. It was founded by **Derek Bailey**, who is recognized as a pioneer in the electric vehicle industry. Derek Automotive focuses on innovative technologies, such as their patented “Loop-Gen” system, which allows the car’s battery to recharge while driving

It’s exciting to see how such advancements are shaping the future of sustainable transportation!

The Avani Electric Cars are redefining eco-friendly travel with innovative features that set them apart in the electric vehicle market:

1. **Advanced Recharging Technology**: The Avani E4 model introduces the revolutionary “Loop-Gen” system, which uses generators and motors integrated into the wheels to recharge the battery while driving. This reduces reliance on traditional grid charging.

2. **Proteus Generator**: This patented technology replenishes energy as quickly as it’s consumed, enhancing efficiency and extending driving range.

3. **Performance and Speed**: The Avani E4 boasts a 90kWh battery, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.9 seconds. It has a maximum torque of 360 Nm and can reach speeds of up to 170 km/h

4. **Sustainability**: Avani Electric Cars emphasize reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy use, making them a leader in environmentally conscious mobility.

5. **Design and Comfort**: The sleek, aerodynamic design not only enhances efficiency but also provides a luxurious and spacious interior. Safety features include front and side airbags, electronic stability control, and more.

These features make Avani Electric Cars a game-changer in the EV industry. Are you considering an electric vehicle, or just exploring the latest innovations?

Name five inventions by Africans and African Americans.

CLASS OVERVIEW

Learn about the multiple inventions and improvement by African and African American people.

BEFORE YOU GET STARTED:

• Please check the materials that go with this lesson and print relevant materials.
• Also, check out the books and products the teachers use for further learning.
• Reach out to support@urbanintellectuals.com if you have any questions or issues.
• Some links may be affiliate links where we may earn a small commission from purchases.

Sources:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1srpiq9ejVKZEsW6F8q7Q9sGTLyQ6oQPI/view?usp=drive_web

https://library.ucsd.edu/dc/object/bb00695483/_1.pdf

Name Five foods introduced or created by Black People.

Example:

Mac and Cheese, ice cream, buffalo wings, french fries.

Please review previous classes for all other foods.

CLASS OVERVIEW

Learn about the foods invented or brought to the United States by people of African descent.

BEFORE YOU GET STARTED:

• Please check the materials that go with this lesson and print relevant materials.
• Also, check out the books and products the teachers use for further learning.
• Reach out to support@urbanintellectuals.com if you have any questions or issues.
• Some links may be affiliate links where we may earn a small commission from purchases.

Sources:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1srpiq9ejVKZEsW6F8q7Q9sGTLyQ6oQPI/view?usp=drivesdk

STEVE HENSON

Born 1918 died 2007 

Steve Henson worked as a plumber contractor in Alaska for 3 years. He started cooking for the crew and made a buttermilk style dressing for salads. He moved to Nebraska with his wife and bought a ranch and called it Hidden Valley. He and his wife perfected the dressing in 1949 and they called the dressing ranch dressing from The Hidden Valley Ranch. His buttermilk dressing soon became a staple at the dinner table at Hidden Valley Ranch and before long, he started selling it to guests and local supermarkets. Over 20 years later in 1972, the couple sold their name and recipe to Clorox for 8 million. Not bad for a little buttermilk mayo and herbs. First it was sold in packets as a dry milk, then in bottles in 1983, also Cool Ranch Doritos became a hit in the grocery stores in 1986.

JAMES HEMMINGS

BORN 1765 in Charles City County, Virginia 

DIED 1801 in Baltimore, Maryland

James hemmings was born into slavery in Virginia in 1765 at the age of 8 years old he was purchased by Thomas Jefferson at his residence of Monticello. He was an older brother of Sally hemmings and a half sibling of Jefferson’s wife Martha Jefferson. Martha, Sally and James’s father was John Wayles. As a young man, he was selected by Jefferson to come with him to Paris when Jefferson was appointed Minister to France. Hemmings was trained to be a French chef. He took lessons on how to speak the French language. He brought many French cooking styles to colonial America and developed new recipes inspired by French cuisine. This includes macaroni and cheese, French fries, creme brulee and meringue. Jefferson took the credit but it was Hemmings who actually improved upon and made these recipes. Jefferson paid him in wages to be his chef when he worked for Jefferson in Philadelphia. He gained his freedom in 1796. He died at the age of 36.

JOHN YOUNG

Born 1934 – died 1998 

In the 1960s, a black restaurant sure named John Young opened Wings n’ Things in Buffalo, New York with his sister Dorothy Young and friend Julius Blazer. He made a tomato base sauce called Mumbo sauce, selling them at two Wing N’ Things locations through the early to mid 1960s. Now we know them as Buffalo Wings.

GEOEGE CRUM

1822 or 1824 –  died July 22nd 1914

It is said that his sister stated that she was the one who made the potato chip she said she sliced off a sliver of potato and it fell into a hot frying pan by accident but the other story is, is that George Crum was waiting on a customer and the customer continue to send back the potatoes asking for them to be sliced thinner and he finally sliced it as thin as he possibly could and the customer was very satisfied and that’s how the potato chip was started. Anyway, we have a great snack that everyone loves.

ROBERT BOGLE 

Born 1774

Robert Bogle was a well known caterer in Philadelphia.  Robert Bogel, was born a slave in 1774 and worked as a waiter and obtained his freedom. He owned an establishment, but became known for his fine foods and was called upon to events such as weddings and social events. His descendants are owners of the black newspaper known as the Philadelphia Tribune. He invented catering, supplying food and drink and service to meetings, weddings, funerals and events. He was famous for his meat pies.

BOOKER WHATLEY

BORN NOV. 5, 1915

DIED SEPT. 3, 2005

He was an agricultural professor at Tuskegee University, Alabama and a pioneer of sustainable agriculture in the post World War II era. He tried to develop a black middle class. The community supported agriculture, drip irrigation, rabbit husbandry farming, owned hunting preserves, Kiwi Vine, shiitake mushrooms, organic gardening and goat cheese production. He advocated the idea in the 1960s and ’70s of having your own garden and now we are doing it. Other plants he created was a special kind of grape, five sweet potato varieties and 15 different muscadine grapes.

AUGUSTUS JACKSON 

BORN – APRIL 16, 1808 

DIED – JANUARY 11, 1852

AUGUSTUS JACKSON, was a ice cream maker and confectioner from Philadelphia PA. He served as chef in the White House in the 1820s. Jackson moved to Philadelphia after leaving the White House and started a successful catering business following after Robert Bogle. He also developed ice cream flavors which he packaged in the cans and distributed to other ice cream parlors in Philadelphia. He eventually became one of the city’s wealthiest residents at the time. He is now known as the father of ice cream. He pioneered some of its modern manufacturing methods namely by adding salt to ice cream. His method help control the custard while it was freezing.

No quiz.

CLASS OVERVIEW

Learn about the destruction and rebuilding of Black Wall Street.

BEFORE YOU GET STARTED:

• Please check the materials that go with this lesson and print relevant materials.
• Also, check out the books and products the teachers use for further learning.
• Reach out to support@urbanintellectuals.com if you have any questions or issues.
• Some links may be affiliate links where we may earn a small commission from purchases.

Sources:

Original Videos of Black Wall Street

https://youtu.be/O2xPe6ayozY?si=-2d-CLkecEtAl2l4

https://youtu.be/iJye1Y-85t0?si=AqoCEEDV49jOhCAQ

https://youtu.be/KTPXc_gscao?si=eBXVq-9u8mBjK2rY

https://youtube.com/shorts/U4pTqHYVYDk?si=8UF-CCtumH8GQoe3

https://youtu.be/jBomoHtUFkQ?si=sfDRisMSL_WoRc-B

https://youtube.com/shorts/WJGc_ReQLZI?si=_VmPZyenV0nHeRHX

The incident in the Drexel Building on May 30, 1921, involved a young Black man named **Dick Rowland** and a young white elevator operator named **Sarah Page. While the exact details of what happened remain unclear, it was reported that Rowland stepped on Page’s foot, causing her to scream. Rowland fled the scene, and the police were called.

The next day, Rowland was arrested, and rumors spread through the white community that he had assaulted Page. An inflammatory article in the Tulsa Tribune further escalated tensions, leading to a confrontation between armed Black and white mobs. This confrontation eventually led to the **Tulsa Race Massacre**, one of the worst incidents of racial violence in U.S. history.

It’s a tragic part of history that highlights the deep racial tensions of the time.

Black soldiers did try to protect Dick Rowland when he was in jail. On the evening of May 31, 1921, about **25 Black men**, some of whom were in military uniforms, arrived at the Tulsa courthouse jail to prevent a group of at least 300 white men from lynching Rowland. The sheriff assured the Black men that no lynching would take place, and they eventually left the scene. However, the presence of armed Black men, including those in uniform, further infuriated the white mob, which led to the escalation of violence.

It’s a powerful example of the bravery and determination of Black Tulsans to protect their community during such a volatile time. If you have more questions or want to know more about the events that followed, feel free to ask.

The incident at the jail that sparked the Tulsa Race Massacre began on the evening of May 31, 1921. Around 9 p.m., a group of about **25 armed Black men**, including World War I veterans, arrived at the Tulsa courthouse to offer help guarding Dick Rowland. The sheriff assured them that he had the situation under control and persuaded them to leave

However, the presence of armed Black men, some in military uniforms, infuriated the white mob that had gathered outside the jail. As tensions escalated, a white man and a Black man got into a scuffle over a pistol, and a shot was fired. This triggered chaos as sporadic gun battles broke out across downtown Tulsa.

The violence quickly spread, and the white mob began attacking Black residents and businesses in the Greenwood District, leading to the devastating massacre.

During the Tulsa Race Massacre, the **Greenwood District**, also known as “Black Wall Street,” was devastated. Over **35 city blocks** were destroyed, including **homes, businesses, churches, schools, and municipal buildings**. The violence and arson left the once-thriving African American community in ruins

It’s a heartbreaking chapter in history, but it’s important to remember and learn from it. If you have more questions or want to know about the aftermath, feel free to ask.

The **Vernon African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church** in the Greenwood District was newly built at the time of the Tulsa Race Massacre. It has been dedicated in April of 1921.  Unfortunately, the church was **severely damaged** during the violence. The superstructure, parsonage, and sanctuary, which were still under construction, were destroyed by the white mob  However, the basement of the church remained intact and became a symbol of resilience and perseverance.

The congregation rebuilt the church, and the current sanctuary was completed in 1925. Today, Vernon AME Church stands as the only surviving Black-owned structure from the Historic Black Wall Street era.

It’s a testament to the strength and determination of the Black community in Tulsa.

Dr. **A.C. Jackson**, a prominent African American surgeon and a leading member of the Greenwood community, was tragically killed during the Tulsa Race Massacre. On the night of May 31, 1921, Dr. Jackson was attempting to surrender to the authorities when he was intercepted by a group of armed white men. Despite raising his hands and stating, “Here am I. I want to go with you,” he was shot multiple times. He bled to death from his wounds at the Convention Hall.

Dr. Jackson was highly respected in the medical community and was considered one of the most able African American surgeons in America). His death was a significant loss to both the medical field and the Greenwood community.

It’s a heartbreaking story that underscores the brutality of the massacre. If you have more questions or want to know about other aspects of the massacre, feel free to ask.

Greenwood was rebuilt after the Tulsa Race Massacre. The resilient residents of Greenwood began rebuilding their community almost immediately after the destruction. By December 1921, many homes and businesses were already being reconstructed. The community’s determination and hard work led to a period of prosperity in the 1930s and 1940s, with Greenwood once again becoming a thriving hub of Black-owned businesses and cultural life.

However, the neighborhood faced further challenges in the 1960s due to urban renewal projects and the construction of federal highways, which disrupted the area and led to a second decline. Despite these obstacles, the legacy of Greenwood and its resilience continues to be remembered and honored today.

It’s a testament to the strength and perseverance of the Black community in Tulsa. If you have more questions or want to know about the current state of Greenwood, feel free to ask.

Name 5 businesses of Black Wall Street.

CLASS OVERVIEW

Learn about the many stores and entities that existed on Greenwood Ave. Known as Black Wall Street.

BEFORE YOU GET STARTED:

• Please check the materials that go with this lesson and print relevant materials.
• Also, check out the books and products the teachers use for further learning.
• Reach out to support@urbanintellectuals.com if you have any questions or issues.
• Some links may be affiliate links where we may earn a small commission from purchases.

These are some of the businesses of Black Wall Street.

1. All stores were on deep Greenwood Avenue.
2. Stratford Hotel with 55 rooms – largest Black owned hotel in the nation.
3. Grocery Store, selling fruits and vegetables and lots of food.
4. Meat Store with beef, pork, chicken and other meats.
5. Clothing Emporium
6. Dry Good Store selling dried fruits and nuts
7. Billiards
8. Beauty Parlor – ladies getting their hair done.
9. Barber Shop – men talking about the politics of the day.
10. Drugstore – with soda fountain
11. William Anderson’s Jewelry Store – fine jewelry
12. Upholstery Store – Upholstery for Hotel and home
13. Photography Shop – many pictures of Families
14. Elliot and Hooker Clothing Emporium – department store selling men’s and women’s clothing
15. H. L. Buyers Tailor Shop – Fitting Clothing
16. Hope Watson’s Cleaners – clothes cleaning
17. Late Night Sandwich Shop – tasty sandwiches
18. The Bar B Que Joint  – all barbeque meats and sides.
19. Doc Bennies and the Hamburger Kelly’s Place – hamburgers.
20. Little Cafe – fried Chicken and smothered steak
21. Lily John’s Liberty Cafe – good food
22. Rally’s and Ada House Confectionery with red and black licorice and chocolates, other candies.
23. John and Lula Williams’s Dreamland Theater which seated 750 people showed the movie of the “Idol Class” with Charlie Chaplin and “Camille” by Alexander Dumas a Black French writer who wrote “The Three Musketeers,” and “The Count of Monte Cristo.”

Dr. A. C. Jackson was known to be the most able-bodied Negro surgeon in the United States. He had an office in the office buildings on Black Wall Street. There were also libraries, a hospital, a bus service, funeral homes, a post office, bank and two airplanes. There were schools and churches one of which was newly completed in April of 1921.

This is just a glimpse of the bustling, wealthy Black Wall Street district on Greenwood Avenue.

1. Oklahoma was a TERRITORY before it was a state.
2. O. W. Gurley was born on December 25th 1867.
3. Gurley had a GENERAL STORE for 10 years.
4. Gurley bought 40 acres of land which was sold only to COLOREDS.
5. GURLEY BOUGHT 80 more acres of land and gave loans to people who wanted to start their own BUSINESSES.