On November 7, 1876, Edward Alexander Bouchet made history by earning a Ph.D. in physics from Yale University, becoming the first African American to receive a doctorate from an American university. His achievement was groundbreaking during an era when racial barriers in higher education were nearly insurmountable.

Key Facts About Edward A. Bouchet:

• He was one of the first six people in the U.S. to earn a Ph.D. in physics.
• He graduated summa cum laude from Yale in 1874 before continuing his doctoral studies.
• Despite his brilliance, racial discrimination prevented him from securing a university teaching position.
• He dedicated his life to educating Black students, teaching for over 25 years at historically Black institutions like the Institute for Colored Youth (now Cheyney University).

Bouchet’s legacy paved the way for future Black scientists and academics, and today, the Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society continues to recognize outstanding scholars from underrepresented backgrounds.