Talented Tenth
Definition
The Talented Tenth is a term coined by W.E.B. DuBois referring to the supposed one in ten black men who become leaders in their communities through methods like education, writing books, or becoming directly involved in social change.
Analogy
Think of the Talented Tenth as the honor roll students of a school. They are expected to lead, inspire, and make significant contributions to society just as top students are expected to excel academically and contribute positively to their schools.
Related terms
Harlem Renaissance: An intellectual, social, and artistic explosion centered in Harlem, New York spanning the 1920s where many members of the "Talented Tenth" played key roles.
Marcus Garvey: A political leader who was a staunch proponent of Black Nationalism and Pan-Africanism movements. His views contrasted with those of DuBois' Talented Tenth idea.
Civil Rights Movement: A struggle for social justice from 1954-1968 primarily aiming for equal rights under law for African-Americans. Many leaders emerged from what could be considered DuBois' concept of the "Talented Tenth".
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