Ophelia Settle Egypt

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Ophelia Settle Egypt (1903–1984) was an American sociologist, social worker, and civil rights activist. She is best known for her pioneering work in documenting the oral histories of formerly enslaved African Americans and her contributions to social work and civil rights.

Early Life and Education

Ophelia Settle was born in 1903 in Clarksville, Texas. She attended Howard University, where she earned her bachelor's degree in 1925. She later pursued graduate studies at the University of Pennsylvania, earning a master's degree in sociology in 1931.

Career

Sociological Research

Egypt's most notable work was her involvement in the Federal Writers' Project during the Great Depression. She conducted interviews with formerly enslaved individuals, preserving their stories for future generations. These interviews were part of the larger effort to document the experiences of African Americans during slavery and Reconstruction.

Social Work

After completing her graduate studies, Egypt worked as a social worker in various capacities. She was particularly focused on improving the lives of African American communities. She worked with the National Urban League and other organizations to address issues such as poverty, education, and healthcare.

Civil Rights Activism

Egypt was also an active participant in the Civil Rights Movement. She worked alongside other prominent activists to fight for racial equality and social justice. Her efforts included organizing community programs, advocating for policy changes, and participating in protests and demonstrations.

Legacy

Ophelia Settle Egypt's contributions to sociology, social work, and civil rights have had a lasting impact. Her work in documenting the oral histories of formerly enslaved individuals has provided invaluable insights into the experiences of African Americans during slavery and Reconstruction. Her dedication to social work and civil rights has inspired future generations of activists and scholars.

See Also

• Federal Writers' Project
• National Urban League
• Civil Rights Movement
• Howard University
• University of Pennsylvania