Famous South Carolinians

Eliza Lucas Pinckney (1722-1793) - born on the island of Antigua, Eliza Pinckney began running the family’s plantation at just 16 years old. As she assumed these responsibilities, she ultimately started the indigo industry. Her sons, Charles C. Pinckney and Thomas Pinckney became statesmen.

Christopher Gadsden (1724-1805) - One of the founders of the United States Navy during the Revolutionary War. In 17890, he was captured and held prisoner for about a year by the British. After his release, he was elected the governor of South Carolina.

Mary McLeod Bethune (1875-1955) - Born to parents who had once been slaves, Mary worked hard for the advancement of the African-American. In 1904, she started Bethune-Cookman College I Florida. From 1936-1944, she led a US agency that helped young African –Americans receive an education and jobs. She was the first African American to head a government agency in America.

Jesse Jackson (1941- ) - a civil rights leader, preacher and the founder of PUSH.

Peggy Parish (1927-1988) - an elementary school teacher and the author of the children’s book series Amelia Bedelia.

Sports stars
Baseball players -Larry Doby, “Shoeless Joe” Jackson and Jim Rice
Tennis & golf great- Althea Gibson
Race car Driver- Carl Yarborough
Heavy weight boxer- Joe Frazer

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