Famous American Political Activists

Harriet Tubman was an American abolitionist and social activist known for her courageous work in leading enslaved people to freedom through the Underground Railroad. During the Civil War, she served as an armed scout and spy for the Union Army, making significant contributions to the cause. Tubman's leadership in guiding the raid at Combahee Ferry, which liberated over 700 enslaved individuals, cemented her legacy as a fearless and pioneering figure in the fight for freedom and equality.

Afeni Shakur Davis was an influential American political activist and member of the Black Panther Party. She played a vital role in managing the estate of her son, rapper Tupac Shakur, and was the founder of the Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation. Additionally, she served as the CEO of Amaru Entertainment, Inc., a record and film production company she established. Through her work in the music and entertainment industry, Afeni Shakur made a lasting impact and contributed to the legacy of her son.

Fredrick Allen Hampton Sr. was a prominent American activist known for his leadership roles in the Black Panther Party and the Illinois chapter. As a progressive African American, he founded the anti-racist Rainbow Coalition, uniting various groups for social change. Hampton, a Marxist–Leninist, emphasized the importance of combating fascism. Despite being targeted by the FBI, his work continued until his tragic death at age 21 during a raid on his Chicago apartment, which many believe was a deliberate murder orchestrated by law enforcement agencies.

Heather Thomas is an American actress known for her role as Jody Banks on The Fall Guy TV series. She retired from acting in 1998 due to stalkers, focusing on family and writing. Post-retirement, she made minor film appearances and engaged in political activism. Thomas returned to acting in 2013. Throughout her career, she has showcased her talent on screen, gaining recognition for her engaging performances and contributions to the entertainment industry.

Laura Jane Addams was an influential American activist, social worker, sociologist, public administrator, philosopher, and author. She co-founded Hull House in Chicago, a renowned settlement house providing social services to immigrant families. Addams was a pioneering leader in social work and women's suffrage, receiving accolades such as an honorary degree from Yale University and being a co-founder of the ACLU. Her advocacy for world peace earned her the Nobel Peace Prize, making her the first American woman to receive this prestigious award. Addams was a prominent reformer in the Progressive Era, addressing critical issues such as public health, children's welfare, and government functionality.

Maureen Reagan was an American political activist who made significant contributions to public service and advocacy. She served as an advisor and advocate on various social issues, particularly focusing on healthcare, Alzheimer's disease awareness, and women's rights. Maureen's professional endeavors included roles in government advisory committees, nonprofit organizations, and media platforms, where she utilized her influence to raise awareness and support causes that were important to her. Her dedication to public service left a lasting impact on the communities she served.

Emma Goldman was a prominent Lithuanian-born anarchist revolutionary, political activist, and writer known for her pivotal role in shaping anarchist political philosophy in North America and Europe during the early 20th century. She gained recognition as a writer and lecturer on anarchist philosophy, women's rights, and social issues, drawing large crowds with her speeches. Goldman was involved in various controversial activities, such as planning an assassination, founding the anarchist journal Mother Earth, and supporting anarchist movements in different countries, leaving a lasting impact on the realms of politics and social activism.

Dashiell Hammett was a prominent American writer known for his hard-boiled detective novels and short stories. In addition to his successful writing career, he also worked as a screenwriter and was involved in political activism. Hammett created iconic characters such as Sam Spade, Nick and Nora Charles, and The Continental Op. He is highly regarded in the mystery genre and has been recognized for his contributions to literature, with several of his works being included in lists of the best crime novels of all time. Hammett's writing also had a significant impact on the film industry, influencing genres like private eye/detective fiction and film noir.

Robert George Seale is an American political activist and author best known for co-founding the Black Panther Party with Huey P. Newton. The Party focused on monitoring police activities and challenging brutality in Black communities. Seale faced charges related to anti-Vietnam War protests, where he was infamously bound and gagged during court appearances. Despite never being convicted, he was sentenced for contempt of court, a decision later overturned. Seale was also involved in the New Haven Black Panther trials but charges were eventually dropped. He is the author of several books on the Black Panther Party and social justice.

Angela Yvonne Davis is an American Marxist and feminist political activist, philosopher, academic, and author. She is a professor emerita at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Davis has been a member of the Communist Party USA and a founding member of the Committees of Correspondence for Democracy and Socialism. She has been actively involved in movements such as Occupy and the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions campaign. Davis has held teaching positions at various universities, been a candidate for vice president, and co-founded Critical Resistance to abolish the prison-industrial complex.

Russell Means was an Oglala Lakota activist for American Indian rights, a libertarian political activist, actor, musician, and writer. He was a prominent member of the American Indian Movement (AIM), organizing events that garnered national and international media attention. Means was involved in advocating for indigenous peoples globally, including working with groups in Central and South America and at the United Nations. He ventured into acting in 1992, appearing in various TV series and films, and released a music CD. Means also authored his autobiography in 1995.

Mae Questel was an American actress renowned for her prolific voice work, notably as the iconic characters Betty Boop and Olive Oyl in animated series. Starting in vaudeville as an impressionist, she transitioned to Broadway, film, and television, where she showcased her versatile talents. Her memorable portrayal of Aunt Bethany in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation further solidified her place in entertainment history. Throughout her career, Questel's distinctive voice and engaging performances captivated audiences and secured her legacy as a gifted and versatile actress.

Kay Bailey Hutchison is an accomplished American attorney, television correspondent, politician, and diplomat. She served as the United States Permanent Representative to NATO from 2017 to 2021. A member of the Republican Party, Hutchison was a United States Senator from Texas from 1993 to 2013. Prior to her political career, she worked as an attorney and legal correspondent. Hutchison held various political positions, including Texas State Treasurer and member of the Texas House of Representatives. She is also known for her unsuccessful bid for Governor of Texas in 2010.

Pamela Harriman was an influential figure in American politics, known for her active involvement in the Democratic Party. She had a successful career as a diplomat and socialite, making significant contributions to international relations. Harriman served as the US Ambassador to France, showcasing her diplomatic skills and commitment to fostering positive relations between nations. Her work and dedication to public service left a lasting impact on the political landscape, solidifying her reputation as a prominent and respected figure in the political arena.

Leslie Cockburn is an accomplished American investigative journalist and filmmaker known for her impactful work in television journalism. She has produced investigative segments for major networks such as CBS, NBC, PBS Frontline, and 60 Minutes, showcasing her commitment to uncovering important stories. Cockburn has been recognized with prestigious awards including an Emmy Award, The Hillman Prize, Alfred I. duPont–Columbia University Award, Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award, and the George Polk Award. In addition, she ran as the Democratic nominee for Virginia's 5th district in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2018.

Iris Chang was an accomplished American journalist, author, and political activist known for her historical books. Her best-selling work, "The Rape of Nanking," detailed the atrocities of the Nanjing Massacre. She also authored "The Chinese in America: A Narrative History." Chang's impactful career inspired the 2007 biography "Finding Iris Chang" and the documentary "Iris Chang: The Rape of Nanking." Her dedication to shedding light on historical events was further honored in the independent documentary "Nanking," which was dedicated to her memory.

Angelina Grimké Weld was an influential American abolitionist, political activist, and women's rights advocate known for her powerful speeches and essays that passionately argued for the end of slavery and the advancement of women's rights. Drawing from natural rights theory, the Constitution, Christian beliefs, and her own experiences, she fearlessly spoke out against injustice and defended women's right to participate in public discourse. She married abolitionist leader Theodore Dwight Weld and together they ran schools, notably in the Raritan Bay Union utopian community, while remaining active in the suffrage movement.

Ruth Warrick was an American singer, actress, and political activist. She was best known for her role as Phoebe Tyler Wallingford on All My Children, which she portrayed from 1970 until her passing in 2005. Warrick made her film debut in the iconic movie Citizen Kane. Throughout her career, she showcased her talent and versatility in various roles on screen and stage. Warrick's dedication to her craft was evident as she celebrated her 80th birthday attending a special screening of Citizen Kane.

Brad Thor is a highly successful American thriller novelist known for his popular Harvath series, which includes titles such as The Lions of Lucerne and The First Commandment. With a talent for crafting gripping and suspenseful stories, Thor's novels have earned international acclaim and have been published in numerous countries worldwide. He has also contributed to anthologies such as Thriller, edited by James Patterson, showcasing his versatility as a writer. Additionally, Thor is a familiar face on television, making regular appearances on Fox News and The Blaze, further solidifying his presence in the literary and media worlds.

Mary McCarthy was a renowned American novelist, critic, and political activist. She gained recognition for her notable works such as The Group and for her influential marriage to critic Edmund Wilson. McCarthy received prestigious awards including the Horizon Prize in 1949 and two Guggenheim Fellowships in 1949 and 1959. She was a distinguished member of various prestigious institutions such as the National Institute of Arts and Letters and the American Academy in Rome. McCarthy's contributions to literature were further acknowledged through honors like the National Medal for Literature and the Edward MacDowell Medal. She also received honorary degrees from several esteemed universities.

Barbara Ehrenreich was an influential American author and political activist known for her work in the Democratic Socialists of America. She was a prolific writer with 21 books to her name, including the acclaimed "Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America." Her career also included being a widely read columnist and essayist, earning her awards such as the Lannan Literary Award and the Erasmus Prize. Ehrenreich's professional life was marked by her impactful writing and advocacy for social and economic justice.

Pitirim Alexandrovich Sorokin was a Russian American sociologist and political activist known for his contributions to social cycle theory. He began his career as a professor at Saint Petersburg Imperial University before fleeing repression under Lenin's communist regime. Sorokin later became a professor at the University of Minnesota and then head of the sociology department at Harvard University. Throughout his professional life, he faced multiple arrests by both the Czarist and communist regimes due to his involvement with the Socialist Revolutionary Party.

Lincoln Davenport Chafee is an American politician who has held various positions in government. He served as the mayor of Warwick, Rhode Island, a United States Senator, and the Governor of Rhode Island. Chafee has been affiliated with different political parties throughout his career, starting as a Republican, then becoming an independent, Democrat, and finally a Libertarian. He is known for his stance against the Iraq War and for seeking presidential nominations in both the Democratic and Libertarian parties.

Bob Beckel was an American political analyst, pundit, and political operative. He was a registered Democrat and worked as an analyst and commentator on Fox News from 2011 to 2015. Beckel was an original co-host of The Five until he took a break due to back surgery. He briefly worked as a commentator for CNN before returning to Fox News in 2017 as co-host of The Five. Unfortunately, he was fired from Fox News in 2017 following accusations of making a racist remark to a colleague.

Martha Mitchell was known for her outspokenness and candidness during the Watergate scandal, a time when her husband served as the United States Attorney General. She gained recognition for her bold public comments and revealing interviews, which shed light on the unfolding political controversy. Despite being in the spotlight due to her husband's position, Martha Mitchell carved out her own professional identity as someone unafraid to speak her mind and challenge the status quo, making a lasting impact during a tumultuous period in American history.

Norman Finkelstein is an American political scientist and activist known for his research on the politics of the Holocaust and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He has held faculty positions at various universities, including Brooklyn College, Rutgers University, Hunter College, New York University, and DePaul University. Finkelstein gained prominence in 2000 with the publication of "The Holocaust Industry," where he criticizes the exploitation of Holocaust memory. He is a vocal critic of Israeli policy and government, leading to his ban from entering Israel in 2008. Finkelstein has authored several books on Palestine and Israel, including "Gaza: An Inquest into Its Martyrdom" in 2018.

Armstrong Williams is a prominent American political commentator, entrepreneur, author, and talk show host. He is known for writing a nationally syndicated conservative newspaper column, hosting a daily radio show, and presenting The Armstrong Williams Show on television. As the owner of Howard Stirk Holdings, a media company associated with Sinclair Broadcasting, Williams has acquired multiple television stations. He has a longstanding connection with former HUD Secretary and 2016 presidential candidate Ben Carson and is also a part-owner of The Baltimore Sun along with David D. Smith.

Christine Todd Whitman is an American politician and author who served as the 50th governor of New Jersey from 1994 to 2001. She also served as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2003. Whitman began her political career in the Nixon administration's Office of Economic Opportunity. She is known for being a self-described Rockefeller Republican and for her efforts in assuring the public of air safety in lower Manhattan after the September 11, 2001 attacks.

Tom Udall is a seasoned American diplomat, lawyer, and politician, currently serving as the United States Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa. Previously, he represented New Mexico in the United States Senate and House of Representatives. He also served as the New Mexico Attorney General, establishing a strong foundation in law and public service. With a notable career in politics, Udall was a respected figure in the Democratic Party and held leadership positions in various governmental roles before taking on his current diplomatic responsibilities.

Tina Modotti was a multi-talented individual with a diverse professional background. She started her career in the United States as a seamstress, model, and theater performer in San Francisco before transitioning into film work in Los Angeles. Modotti later found her true passion in photography and essay writing, establishing herself as a prominent figure in the field. Her move to Mexico in 1922 marked a significant turning point as she became deeply involved in revolutionary politics, particularly as an active member of the Mexican Communist Party.

Jody Williams is an American political activist renowned for her advocacy in banning anti-personnel landmines and defending human rights, particularly those of women. She has been a key figure in promoting new perspectives on security in the contemporary world. In recognition of her efforts, she was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize in 1997 for her dedicated work towards the eradication and removal of anti-personnel mines. Williams continues to be a prominent voice in global peace and humanitarian initiatives.

Anna Howard Shaw was a prominent figure in the women's suffrage movement in the United States. She was not only a suffragist but also a physician and one of the earliest female Methodist ministers in the country. Her professional life was dedicated to advocating for women's rights and equality. Shaw's contributions to the suffrage movement were significant, and her work as a minister and physician showcased her commitment to service and empowerment. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of women fighting for equality.

Earl Browder was a prominent American communist activist and leader of the Communist Party USA during the 1930s and 1940s. He served as the General Secretary of the CPUSA, authored numerous political works, and ran for President of the United States twice. Browder was involved in organizing activities for the Communist International and Soviet intelligence in America. He advocated for close cooperation between the US and the Soviet Union during WWII and transformed the CPUSA into a political association in 1944. Browder's refusal to adapt to changing political realities led to his expulsion from the Communist Party in 1946.

John Mercer Langston was an American abolitionist, attorney, educator, activist, diplomat, and politician. He served as the founding dean of the law school at Howard University and the first president of what is now Virginia State University. Langston was elected as a U.S. Representative from Virginia and wrote a book about his experiences. He was a prominent figure in African-American freedom, education, equal rights, and suffrage, playing a key role in advancing the rights of African Americans during a challenging period in American history.

Rodolfo "Corky" Gonzales was a prominent Mexican-American figure known for his roles as a boxer, poet, political organizer, and activist. He emerged as a leader within the Crusade for Justice movement in Denver, Colorado during the 1960s, advocating for urban rights and Chicano cultural empowerment. Gonzales spearheaded the organization of significant events such as the Chicano Youth Liberation Conference, which played a pivotal role in shaping the future of Chicano activism and artistry. His efforts focused on promoting cultural, political, and economic justice for Chicanos, leaving a lasting impact on history.

John Lawrence Seigenthaler was an American journalist, writer, and political figure known for his staunch defense of First Amendment rights. He joined The Tennessean in 1949, later becoming editor, publisher, and chairman. He also served as Robert F. Kennedy's administrative assistant and was the founding editorial director of USA Today. Seigenthaler was actively involved in the American Society of Newspaper Editors, serving on its board of directors and as president. He retired as chairman emeritus in 1991 after a successful and influential career in journalism.

Grace Paley was an American short story author, poet, teacher, and political activist. She gained recognition for her three acclaimed collections of short stories, culminating in the Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award finalist, The Collected Stories. Paley's works focus on the everyday struggles and emotions of city life, drawing from her upbringing in the Bronx. In addition to her writing and teaching career, she was a prominent feminist and anti-war activist, identifying as a combative pacifist and cooperative anarchist.

Laura Loomer is an American far-right political activist and internet personality known for her controversial views and actions. She has been involved with organizations such as Project Veritas, The Rebel Media, and InfoWars. Loomer gained notoriety for being banned from multiple social media platforms and other services due to violations of hate speech and misinformation policies. She has also faced removal from events and had press credentials revoked for harassment and causing disturbances. Despite some support from figures like Donald Trump, Loomer's reputation has been marred by accusations of spreading false information and inciting controversy.

Charlie Kirk is an American conservative political activist, radio talk show host, and internet personality. He co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012 and has been its executive director since. Additionally, he serves as the CEO of Turning Point Action, Turning Point Academy, and Turning Point Faith. Kirk is also the president of Turning Point Endowment and a member of the Council for National Policy. He has authored four books, showcasing his influence and impact in the conservative political sphere.

Ron Cyrus was a dedicated American politician and public servant, serving the people of Greenup County, Kentucky. A member of the Democratic Party, he held a distinguished career in the Kentucky House of Representatives, being elected for 11 consecutive terms. Throughout his tenure, he worked tirelessly to represent his constituents and address their needs. His commitment to public service and advocacy for the community were evident in his long and impactful career as a respected political figure in Kentucky.

James Otis Jr. was an American lawyer and political activist known for his early support of patriotic causes in Massachusetts Bay Colony during the Revolutionary Era. He vehemently opposed British writs of assistance, which allowed unwarranted searches, and criticized taxation without representation. Otis mentored Samuel Adams and influenced John Adams with his powerful oratory. Despite being considered a Founding Father for his pre-Revolutionary efforts, Otis's career was marred by mental illness and alcoholism, leading to his diminished relevance in the cause by the early 1770s.

Mike Davis was a prominent American writer, political activist, urban theorist, and historian known for his insightful explorations of power dynamics and social class. Based in Southern California, he authored influential works such as City of Quartz and Late Victorian Holocausts. His last two non-fiction books, including Set the Night on Fire: L.A. in the Sixties and The Monster Enters: COVID-19, Avian Flu, and the Plagues of Capitalism, showcased his deep understanding of societal issues and historical contexts. Davis's contributions greatly influenced scholarly discourse on urban studies and political economy.

Muriel Rukeyser was a multifaceted American writer and activist known for her diverse body of work spanning poetry, essays, biographies, novels, and screenplays. She tackled a wide range of social issues including racial, gender, and class justice, war crimes, Jewish culture and diaspora, American history, politics, and culture. Rukeyser's impactful poem "The Book of the Dead" shed light on the Hawk's Nest incident, a tragic industrial disaster. Her poem "To be a Jew in the Twentieth Century" became a significant piece adopted by Jewish movements for their prayer books, showcasing her profound influence and versatility in addressing complex themes.

Jorge Mas Canosa was a prominent Cuban-American businessman known for founding the Cuban American National Foundation and MasTec. He was a powerful lobbyist on Cuban and anti-Castro political issues, earning the label of "counterrevolutionary" from the Cuban Communist Party. Mas Canosa played a key role in creating Radio Marti and TV Marti and was appointed chairman of an advisory panel by President Ronald Reagan. Trained by the CIA for the Bay of Pigs Invasion, he led controversial covert operations in Cuba through the Cuban-American National Foundation.

Alice Dunbar Nelson was a multifaceted professional known for her contributions to literature, journalism, and activism. She was a prominent poet, author of short stories and dramas, and editor of anthologies. Her work as a newspaper columnist showcased her insightful perspective on various social issues. Additionally, she was actively involved in advocating for women's rights and was a significant figure in the Harlem Renaissance movement. Her diverse range of talents and dedication to social causes left a lasting impact on American literature and civil rights activism.

George Lincoln Rockwell was an American Neo-Nazi/fascist activist who founded the American Nazi Party in 1959. He became a prominent figure in Neo-Nazism in the United States, influencing many white supremacists. Rockwell served in the Navy during World War II and the Korean War before being honorably discharged in 1960 due to his extreme views. He openly praised Adolf Hitler, denied the Holocaust, and advocated for racial segregation and white separatism. Rockwell's beliefs led to his assassination in 1967 by a former party member.

Brigitte Gabriel is a prominent Lebanese-American conservative activist, author, and lecturer known for her critical stance on Islam. She is the founder of ACT for America, an influential advocacy group dedicated to countering Islamic extremism. Gabriel's professional life revolves around public speaking engagements, writing books, and leading efforts to raise awareness about what she perceives as the threats posed by radical Islam. Her work has made her a polarizing figure in the discourse surrounding Islam and national security.

Abbie Hoffman was an influential American political and social activist known for co-founding the Youth International Party ("Yippies") and being a member of the Chicago Seven. He was a key figure in the Flower Power movement and a leading proponent of anti-Vietnam war activism during the counterculture era. Hoffman was charged and tried for his activities during the 1968 Democratic National Convention, ultimately being convicted but having all convictions vacated on appeal. He continued his activism into the 1970s before tragically ending his own life in 1989.

Tom Hayden was an American social and political activist, author, and politician known for his influential role in the rise of the New Left in the 1960s. As a leader of Students for a Democratic Society, he authored the Port Huron Statement and was involved in protests at the 1968 Democratic National Convention. Hayden later ran for political office, serving in the California State Assembly and Senate. He also directed the Peace and Justice Resource Center in Los Angeles County.

Jesse Helms Jr. was a prominent American politician known for his leadership in the conservative movement. Serving as a senator from North Carolina from 1973 to 2003, he had a significant impact on foreign policy as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Helms played a key role in organizing and funding the conservative resurgence, supporting Ronald Reagan's presidential campaign and various local candidates. He was known for his staunch opposition to civil rights, environmentalism, gay rights, affirmative action, and other social issues, as well as for advocating an anti-communist foreign policy.

Dennis Kucinich is an American politician known for his progressive views. He served as a U.S. Representative from Ohio's 10th congressional district from 1997 to 2013 and as the mayor of Cleveland from 1977 to 1979. Kucinich ran for president in the Democratic primaries in 2004 and 2008, advocating for issues such as opposition to the Iraq War, single-payer healthcare, and the impeachment of Vice President Dick Cheney. He has also been a contributor on Fox News and has made unsuccessful runs for governor and mayor.

Nina Rosenwald is an American political activist and philanthropist known for her involvement in various organizations. As the vice president of the William Rosenwald Family Fund and co-chair of the board of American Securities Management, she plays key roles in both philanthropy and business. Rosenwald is also the founder and president of the Gatestone Institute, a New York-based right-wing anti-Muslim think tank. With a focus on supporting pro-Israel organizations, she has been described as a lifelong ardent Zionist and has faced criticism for her views on Muslim-related issues.

Dwight Macdonald was a prominent American writer, critic, philosopher, and activist known for his contributions to various publications, including the Partisan Review where he served as editor for six years. He was a member of the influential New York Intellectuals group and played a significant role in shaping leftist discourse in the mid-20th century. Macdonald's work also appeared in esteemed publications such as Time, The New Yorker, The New York Review of Books, and Politics, a journal that he founded in 1944.

Charles Waddell Chesnutt was a prominent American author, essayist, political activist, and lawyer known for his insightful novels and short stories that delved into the complexities of racial and social identity in the post-Civil War South. He achieved recognition for his work when two of his books were adapted into silent films by director Oscar Micheaux. In Cleveland, Ohio, Chesnutt successfully established a court reporting business, while actively engaging in civil rights advocacy through his involvement in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

Max Forrester Eastman was an American writer, poet, and political activist known for his contributions to literature, philosophy, and society. He was a leading figure in radical circles in Greenwich Village and a supporter of socialism. Eastman co-founded The Liberator, a radical magazine, and edited The Masses. He resided in the Soviet Union where he witnessed the power struggle between Trotsky and Stalin, leading him to become critical of communism and socialism. Later in his life, he advocated for free market economics and anti-communism while maintaining independence in his thinking.

Letitia Ann James is an American lawyer and politician who has served as the Attorney General of New York since 2019. She is a member of the Democratic Party and made history as the first African American and first woman to hold the position. James has a background in public defense and has worked in various roles in the New York State Assembly. She also served as a member of the New York City Council and as the New York City Public Advocate before focusing on her role as Attorney General.

Rosario Dawson is an American actress known for her versatile roles in film and television. With a career spanning over two decades, she has showcased her talent in a variety of genres, including drama, comedy, and action. Dawson has appeared in numerous successful projects, such as Sin City, Rent, and Clerks II, and has lent her voice to popular animated characters like Wonder Woman and Batgirl. Her work in comic book adaptations and acclaimed series like The Mandalorian and Dopesick highlight her range and skill as an actress.

Michelle Lujan Grisham is an American lawyer and politician who has held various positions in public service. She served as the state secretary of health and as a Bernalillo County commissioner before being elected as the U.S. representative for New Mexico's 1st congressional district. In 2018, she won the Democratic nomination for governor of New Mexico and was elected as the 32nd governor of the state. Throughout her career, Lujan Grisham has been involved in healthcare policy and has been an advocate for Hispanic representation in government.

Kimberly Kane is a renowned American pornographic actress known for her successful career in the adult entertainment industry. With her captivating performances and undeniable talent, she has become a prominent figure in the world of adult films. Kane has starred in numerous adult movies and has garnered a loyal fan base due to her versatile acting skills and professionalism. Her dedication to her craft and ability to bring characters to life on screen have solidified her reputation as one of the top performers in the industry.

Jon Kyl is an American politician and lobbyist who served as a United States Senator for Arizona from 1995 to 2013. He briefly returned to the Senate in 2018 following the death of John McCain. A Republican, he held both of Arizona's Senate seats at different times. Kyl was Senate Minority Whip from 2007 until 2013 and was recognized as one of America's Ten Best Senators by Time magazine in 2006. He has also held various leadership roles within the Republican Party during his tenure in the Senate.

Kay Boyle was a prominent American novelist, short story writer, educator, and political activist. She was recognized for her literary achievements with prestigious awards such as the Guggenheim Fellowship and the O. Henry Award. Throughout her career, Boyle made significant contributions to American literature through her thought-provoking works and activism. As an educator, she inspired many aspiring writers and influenced the literary landscape of her time. Boyle's dedication to her craft and her commitment to social and political causes left a lasting impact on the literary world.

Opal Tometi is an American human rights activist, writer, strategist, and community organizer. She co-founded Black Lives Matter (BLM) and served as the executive director of the Black Alliance for Just Immigration (BAJI). Tometi has a background in advocating for human rights, migrant rights, and racial justice globally. She has extensive experience as a community organizer, working to support survivors of domestic violence and advance various social justice causes. Her professional career spans over nine years in leadership roles within prominent organizations dedicated to empowering marginalized communities.

Harry Bridges was an Australian-born American union leader who founded the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) in 1937. He expanded the union's membership to include workers in warehouses and led it for 40 years. Bridges faced prosecution and government scrutiny for his labor organizing activities, including being designated as subversive and facing deportation attempts. Despite these challenges, he became a naturalized citizen in 1945 and continued to lead the ILWU until his retirement in 1977, maintaining influence and support from the membership.

Edmund Ruffin III was a Virginia planter who served in the Virginia Senate. Known for his pro-slavery writings and advocacy of states' rights, he was a political activist with the Fire-Eaters and fought in the Confederate army. Ruffin is credited with firing the first shot of the Civil War and later committed suicide rather than accept defeat. Beyond his political activities, he made significant contributions to soil science, pioneering methods to preserve soil productivity through crop rotation and soil amendments, earning him the title "the father of soil science" in the United States.

David Gergen is an esteemed American political commentator and former presidential adviser who has served in various capacities in the administrations of Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan, and Bill Clinton. He currently holds positions as a senior political analyst for CNN, a professor of public service, and the founding director of the Center for Public Leadership at Harvard Kennedy School. Gergen has also been an editor at large for U.S. News & World Report, a contributor to CNN.com and Parade Magazine, and has been part of award-winning election coverage teams.

Dana Rohrabacher is an American former politician who served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1989 to 2019 as a Republican representing California's 48th congressional district for the last three terms. Known for his strong pro-Russia and pro-Putin opinions, Rohrabacher's relationship with Vladimir Putin and the Russian government has sparked controversy. He was defeated by Democrat Harley Rouda in 2018. Referred to as "Putin's favorite congressman" by Politico, Rohrabacher's political career was marked by his unique foreign policy perspectives.

Donna Shalala is an American politician and academic who has held various prominent positions in government and education. She served in the Carter and Clinton administrations, was a U.S. Representative, and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Shalala has a strong academic background, earning a PhD and working as a professor before taking on leadership roles at Hunter College, the University of Wisconsin–Madison, and the University of Miami. She also served as the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services and as president of the Clinton Foundation.

Zitkala-Ša was a prominent Yankton Dakota writer, editor, translator, musician, educator, and political activist. She chronicled her struggles with cultural identity, bridging the gap between her education in the majority culture and her Dakota roots. Recognized for bringing traditional Native American stories to a wider English-speaking audience, she co-founded the National Council of American Indians to advocate for Native peoples' rights. Through collaborations, she composed the libretto and songs for The Sun Dance Opera, the first American Indian opera, showcasing Sioux and Ute cultural themes.

Susan Abulhawa is a prominent Palestinian writer, human rights activist, and animal rights advocate based in Pennsylvania. She is the founder of Playgrounds for Palestine, a non-governmental organization. Abulhawa's debut novel, "Mornings in Jenin," achieved international success with translations in 32 languages and over a million copies sold, establishing her as the most widely read Palestinian author. Her subsequent works, including "The Blue Between Sky And Water" and "Against the Loveless World," have also garnered critical acclaim and expanded her influence as a respected literary figure.

Theodore Dwight Weld was a key figure in the American abolitionist movement from 1830 to 1844, serving as a writer, editor, speaker, and organizer. He co-authored the influential work "American Slavery as It Is: Testimony of a Thousand Witnesses" in 1839, which inspired Harriet Beecher Stowe's "Uncle Tom’s Cabin". Weld's eloquence and powerful words were noted by Lyman Beecher, who described him as "as eloquent as an angel, and as powerful as thunder." Weld remained dedicated to the abolitionist cause until the Thirteenth Amendment ended slavery in 1865.

Mary Elizabeth Lease was an American lecturer, writer, Georgist, and political activist. She made her political debut in 1888 and became known for her work with the People's Party (Populists). Lease was a strong advocate for suffrage and temperance movements. She opposed big business and was a vocal critic of Wall Street's influence. Referred to as the "People's Joan of Arc," she made numerous speeches during political campaigns. Lease also authored a book in 1895 and worked as an editor for various publications.

Ralph Nader is an American political activist, author, lecturer, and attorney known for his work in consumer protection, environmentalism, and government reform. He gained prominence in the 1960s with the publication of "Unsafe at Any Speed," a critique of the automotive industry's safety practices. Nader led investigations that led to reforms in the Federal Trade Commission and established advocacy groups. He made several presidential bids, aiming to raise awareness of overlooked issues and the need for electoral reform. Nader is a prolific author and has been recognized as one of the most influential Americans in history.

A. J. Muste was a prominent figure in American professional circles as a clergyman and political activist. Known for his significant contributions to various social movements, he devoted his career to advocating for labor rights, pacifism, antiwar efforts, and civil rights. Through his work, Muste left a lasting impact on these spheres, using his platform to promote social justice and equality. His dedication and leadership in these movements have solidified his legacy as an influential and respected figure in American history.

Richard J. Daley was a prominent American politician who served as the mayor of Chicago and chairman of the Cook County Democratic Party Central Committee. Known as "the last of the big city bosses," Daley wielded significant influence and control over American cities. He played a crucial role in revitalizing Chicago and was a key figure in the Democratic Party, supporting notable candidates in presidential elections. Despite his achievements, Daley's legacy is marred by criticisms of his response to civil unrest and corruption within his administration.

Lloyd Bentsen was a prominent American politician who served as a four-term United States Senator from Texas and was the Democratic Party nominee for vice president in 1988. He also held the position of the United States Secretary of the Treasury under President Bill Clinton. During his time in the Senate, Bentsen played a significant role in passing key legislation such as the Employee Retirement Income Security Act and the creation of individual retirement accounts. He was known for his impactful contributions to finance and trade policies.