Hamilton E. Holmes

Hamilton E. Holmes

Hamilton E. Holmes (July 8, 1941 – October 26, 1995) was an American orthopedic physician and civil rights pioneer. He is best known for being one of the first two African-American students admitted to the University of Georgia in 1961, alongside Charlayne Hunter-Gault.

Early Life and Education

Holmes was born in Atlanta, Georgia, to Alfred "Tup" Holmes and Isabella Holmes. He attended the all-black Henry McNeal Turner High School, where he excelled academically and was valedictorian of his class. Holmes aspired to become a physician from a young age, influenced by his family's emphasis on education and professional achievement.

University of Georgia

In 1961, Holmes and Charlayne Hunter-Gault became the first African-American students to enroll at the University of Georgia, following a legal battle spearheaded by civil rights lawyers, including Donald L. Hollowell and Constance Baker Motley. Their admission marked a significant milestone in the Civil Rights Movement and the desegregation of higher education in the United States.

Despite facing significant hostility and discrimination, Holmes excelled academically at the University of Georgia. He graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1963.

Medical Career

After completing his undergraduate studies, Holmes attended the Emory University School of Medicine, where he earned his medical degree in 1967. He became the first African-American to be accepted into Emory's residency program in orthopedics. Holmes later served as an assistant professor of orthopedics at Emory and as the medical director at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta.

Legacy and Honors

Holmes' contributions to medicine and civil rights have been widely recognized. The University of Georgia named a building, the Holmes-Hunter Academic Building, in honor of Holmes and Charlayne Hunter-Gault. Additionally, the Hamilton E. Holmes Professorship in Medicine was established at Emory University to support the education of future medical professionals.

Holmes' legacy continues to inspire future generations of students and civil rights activists. His life and achievements are a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of equal access to education.

Personal Life

Holmes was married to Marilyn Vincent Holmes, and they had two children. He passed away on October 26, 1995, due to heart failure.

See Also

• Charlayne Hunter-Gault
• University of Georgia
• Civil Rights Movement
• Emory University School of Medicine
• Grady Memorial Hospital