Raleigh, North Carolina (August 10, 1858- February 27, 1964) age 105 yrs

Anna Julia Cooper, born enslaved, was an educator, author, and activist who challenged biased notions of racial and gender inferiority. Cooper fought for social justice and civil rights for African American women, young people, and the poor. She used her scholarship, community outreach, and innovative educational leadership to achieve this. Anna Julia Cooper is one of the most prominent African American scholars in United States history.