The Greatest African-American Essay

"The right of people to live where they want to, without fear, is more important than my science." is a quote from African American chemist, inventor, and the greatest African American, Percy L. Julian. Percy's research and studying helped the creation of drugs to treat glaucoma and arthritis. A Percy lived during a time of racism and segregation, he never let racism and it's many challenges get in the way of his shaping of our world today. With his many achievements and awards, I personally believe Dr. Percy L. Julian is the Greatest African-American.

Percy Lavon Julian was born on April 11, 1899 to Elizabeth and James Julian in Montgomery, Alabama. Percy's father was a railroad mail clerk, and his mother was a teacher. Julian and his five other siblings were raised by parents who valued
Julian was recognized for his work in the medical field. He was a positive effect in the chemical synthesis of medical drugs from plants. Julian received many awards throughout his life, so these are only a few awards. Percy was the first African-American chemist elected to the National Academy of the Sciences, in 1973. Julian's synthesis of physostigmine, an ingredient in the Calabar bean, was recognized by the American Chemical Society as one of the top 25 achievements in the history of American chemistry. In 1990, Percy was selected into the National Inventors Hall of Fame. I believe Percy deserved more awards than he received, as his research has contributed so much people in our world today.

Percy Julian had a major factor in the medical field and the chemical industries. Julian’s research in the cure for glaucoma, pressure in the eyeball that causes a loss of eyesight, has helped thousands of people every year. He never let racism and the attacks him and his family went through get in the way of his success. Percy persevered and became the greatest african-american to have lived. Julian may be dead, but his legacy and research will live on