W.E.B. Du Bois was an influential African American sociologist, historian, and civil rights activist born in 1868. He was the first African American to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard University and became a leading figure in the fight for racial equality in the United States during the early 20th century. Du Bois co-founded the NAACP and was a vocal advocate for civil rights, promoting the idea of "double consciousness," which described the internal conflict experienced by African Americans in a racially divided society. Throughout his career, Du Bois emphasized the importance of education and the need for African Americans to pursue higher learning as a pathway to empowerment. He believed that a "Talented Tenth" of the Black population should be educated to lead the community toward social and political advancement. His scholarly work, particularly "The Souls of Black Folk," remains vital in understanding African American identity and the struggles against oppression and discrimination. Du Bois's legacy extends beyond his academic contributions; he was also a founding member of the Pan-African movement. He advocated for global solidarity among people of African descent and was an early critic of colonialism. His ideas continue to resonate in contemporary discussions on race, equality, and social justice. W.E.B. Du Bois was a prominent African American scholar and activist who played a pivotal role in advocating for civil rights. He was a strong proponent of education as vital for African American empowerment and believed in nurturing a leadership class. Du Bois's thoughts on race, identity, and global solidarity remain influential in the ongoing struggle for racial equality.