Founding of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity
December 4th, 1906
December 4th, 1906
How Long Ago?
118 years, 3 months, 11 days ago
Location
Ithaca, New York, USA
Category
Social Movements & Civil Rights
People
- Henry Arthur Callis
- Charles Henry Chapman
- Eugene Kinckle Jones
- George Biddle Kelley
- Nathaniel Allison Murray
- Robert Harold Ogle
- Vertner Woodson Tandy
Links & References
Tags
Founding of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity
Alpha Phi Alpha, the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity for African Americans, was established at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. Founded by seven undergraduate students, the fraternity aimed to foster academic excellence and promote leadership among African American men. The founders sought to create a supportive community that would combat racial discrimination and encourage philanthropy and community service, aligning with the ideals of the time amid growing awareness of civil rights issues.
First intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity for blacks.
Founded by seven students at Cornell University.
Focus on academic excellence and community service.
Inspired future black Greek letter organizations.
What Happened?
Alpha Phi Alpha was founded in response to the challenges faced by African American students in predominantly white institutions, emphasizing the need for academic support, brotherhood, and social activism. The founding members were Henry Arthur Callis, Charles Henry Chapman, Eugene Kinckle Jones, George Biddle Kelley, Nathaniel Allison Murray, Robert Harold Ogle, and Vertner Woodson Tandy. These students recognized that many African Americans faced severe social and economic barriers, and they aimed to form an organization that would uplift their community while advocating for equality and higher education.
In its early years, the fraternity focused on community service initiatives, educational advancement, and providing scholarships to black students. The fraternity's motto, "First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All," underscores its commitment to both personal achievement and community uplift. Alpha Phi Alpha's success paved the way for the development of other black Greek letter organizations, influencing the Greek life landscape across America.
The fraternity played a crucial role in the development of future African American leaders and advocates for civil rights. Over the years, its members have included prominent figures in various fields, such as politicians, educators, and entertainers. The legacy of Alpha Phi Alpha continues to thrive, impacting the lives of countless individuals and advocating for social change.
Why Does it Matter?
The founding of Alpha Phi Alpha is interesting because it marked a significant moment in the establishment of African American fraternal organizations, which became platforms for not only academic success but also social change. As the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity for African Americans, it laid the groundwork for future organizations, contributing to the broader fight for civil rights and inclusion in American society.
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