On May 8, 1871, Robert Tanner Freeman graduated from Harvard Dental School, becoming the first African American to earn a dental degree in the United States. Freeman broke racial barriers in professional education during Reconstruction. Despite facing hostility, he was accepted into Harvard thanks to progressive administrators. After graduation, Freeman opened a dental practice in Washington, D.C., serving both Black and white patients. His achievement inspired generations of African Americans to pursue professional careers in medicine and dentistry during an era where few opportunities existed.
© 2025 KnowThyHistory.com. Know Thy History
