Ida B. Wells, a remarkable figure in American history, was born during slavery in 1862 in Holly Springs, Mississippi. Wells’ parents and one brother succumbed to yellow fever. After these tragic circumstances, Wells became guardian to her five remaining siblings. She is renowned for her pioneering work in journalism and activism, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Wells is most well-known for her tireless efforts to bring attention to the issue of racial violence and her contributions to the civil rights movement.
Faced with racism and bigotry, Ida’s pursuit of education led her to become an educator. She was fueled in part because her father was a founder of Shaw University. This enables her to support her siblings.
As a journalist, Her friend Thomas Moss was lynched by a white mob. Ida penned an editorial detailing the brutal act. In retaliation, the newspaper headquarters, The Free Speech and Headlight, was burned to the ground on May 27, 1892. Even though she received many death threats, her reporting on lynching led to travel throughout the U.S. and Europe. Ida revealed the harsh realities of racial violence and discrimination against African Americans in the South. Wells’ unflinching reporting challenged the narratives and stereotypes about African Americans and inspired many to join the fight for civil rights.
Wells was also a vocal suffragette and advocated for women’s right to vote, even after attempts to be side-lined by the more popular suffragette activists of the time, including Susan B. Anthony. She was active in women’s suffrage organizations and participated in the early feminist movement, highlighting the intersection of gender and race in her advocacy.
Despite her significant contributions to journalism, civil rights, and the women’s suffrage movement, Ida B. Wells often faced hostility and opposition from those who wanted to suppress her message. In the era of Jim Crow and systemic racism, her accomplishments were not always recognized or celebrated to the extent they deserved.
Reference material from : Thelist.com
