Lucy Stanton: the First Black Woman to Earn a College Degree

Lucy Stanton was a pioneering African-American woman born in 1831 in Cleveland. She became the first Black woman in America to earn a four-year college degree from Oberlin College in 1850. Stanton was an active abolitionist and feminist, delivering a notable anti-slavery speech at her graduation. She later taught at a Black school in Columbus and became the first African-American to publish a fictional story. Her life exemplified the spirit of early American feminism and a strong commitment to abolition.

What significant achievement did Lucy Stanton accomplish in 1850?

Describe the content and significance of the graduation address delivered by Lucy Stanton.

In what year did Lucy Stanton become the first African-American to have a fictional story published?

How did Lucy Stanton's life reflect the spirit of radical women in her time?

What role did Lucy Stanton play in the first wave of American feminism?