|
HONORING THE LIFE OF JOHN HOPE FRANKLIN
|
|
|
April 21, 2009
|
|
| |
|
I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 320, which honors the life and achievements of Dr. John Hope Franklin.
Dr. Franklin was a monumental figure in the field of African-American history. In 1947, he published From Slavery to Freedom: A History of Negro Americans. This groundbreaking work is considered the definitive history of the African-American experience in the United States. He continually updated the book over the next half-century, selling over 3 million copies. In 1979, he again made history by becoming the first African-American to serve as President of the American Historical Association. Dr. Franklin is the recipient of numerous awards including the NAACP's Spingarn Medal, the Kluge Prize for lifetime achievement in the humanities, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Dr. Franklin's work forced millions of Americans to re-examine the history of the United States and illuminated the African-American experience for people of all races and creeds. Perhaps more than any other figure, Dr. Franklin has crafted a true narrative of African-American history that speaks to the core of America's past and present.
On March 25, 2009, Dr. Franklin passed away in Durham, North Carolina. As great as his presence was, it is likely that his absence will loom even larger. However, his work will forever serve as a testament to his intellectual rigor and original scholarship. He will continue educating generations of American to come on the issues of race and our complex history.
Today, we honor a life of service and achievement that will not be forgotten and I am proud to join with my colleagues in supporting this important resolution.
|
|
|
|
|
