African American figures have played significant roles in various fields, including politics, arts, science, and civil rights. Notable individuals include Martin Luther King Jr., a leader in the civil rights movement, and Harriet Tubman, who helped enslaved people escape through the Underground Railroad. Their contributions have shaped American history and culture. In the arts, figures like Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou have made lasting impacts through their literature and poetry, while Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington revolutionized music. These individuals, among many others, have inspired generations and continue to influence society today.