T. R. M. Howard

American civil rights leader and surgeon

T. R. M. Howard was a prominent American civil rights leader, surgeon, and entrepreneur. He played a significant role in the civil rights movement, particularly in the Mississippi Delta region, and was a mentor to several key figures in the movement.

Early life and education

T. R. M. Howard was born on March 4, 1908, in Murray, Kentucky. He was raised in a family that valued education and hard work. Howard attended Union College in Barbourville, Kentucky, where he excelled academically. He later attended Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee, where he earned his medical degree.

Medical career

After completing his education, Howard moved to the Mississippi Delta, where he established a successful medical practice. He became known for his dedication to providing medical care to African American communities, who were often underserved by the healthcare system at the time. Howard's medical practice was not only a place for healing but also a hub for civil rights activism.

Civil rights activism

T. R. M. Howard

Howard was deeply involved in the civil rights movement. He was a founding member of the Regional Council of Negro Leadership (RCNL), an organization that advocated for civil rights and economic empowerment for African Americans in the Mississippi Delta. The RCNL organized annual rallies that drew thousands of participants and featured prominent speakers, including Thurgood Marshall and Medgar Evers.

Howard was also instrumental in the investigation of the Emmett Till murder case. He provided support and protection to witnesses and worked tirelessly to bring national attention to the case, which became a catalyst for the civil rights movement.

Entrepreneurial ventures

In addition to his medical and civil rights work, Howard was a successful entrepreneur. He owned several businesses, including a hospital, an insurance company, and a plantation. His business ventures provided employment opportunities for African Americans and helped to build economic independence in the community.

Later life and legacy

In the later years of his life, Howard continued to be active in civil rights and community development. He moved to Chicago, where he remained involved in civil rights activities and continued his medical practice. Howard's contributions to the civil rights movement and his efforts to improve the lives of African Americans have left a lasting legacy.

Related pages

• Civil rights movement
• Emmett Till
• Medgar Evers
• Thurgood Marshall