Henry Ossian Flipper became the first African American to graduate from the United States Military Academy at West Point on June 15, 1877. Despite facing severe discrimination and social isolation during his time at the academy, Flipper persevered and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. His achievement marked a significant, though challenging, advance in the long struggle for racial equality in the American military and education systems. Flipper’s career and legacy continue to inspire efforts towards greater inclusivity and fairness within the military and beyond.
