February 14 …
Morehouse College is a private historically Black liberal arts college for men located in Atlanta, GA.
The institution was founded on February 14, 1867, as the Augusta Institute in Augusta, GA under the sponsorship of the American Baptist Home Mission Society. Created to educate formerly enslaved Black men for leadership roles in ministry and teaching, the school emerged during Reconstruction as part of a broader effort to expand educational access and opportunity for Black Americans in the South.
In 1879, the institution relocated to Atlanta, where it became Atlanta Baptist Seminary and later Atlanta Baptist College. By the early 20th century, the school had expanded beyond its original religious focus, introducing a wider liberal arts curriculum that included studies in the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences.
In 1913, it adopted the name Morehouse College in honor of Henry Lyman Morehouse.
The college awarded its first Bachelor of Arts degrees in 1899, marking a significant transition into a fully recognized undergraduate liberal arts institution. Early academic programs emphasized classical education, including Latin, Greek, philosophy, and theology, while later offerings expanded to include majors such as biology, chemistry, business administration, political science, English, and sociology.
As a member of the Atlanta University Center, Morehouse strengthened its academic resources and collaborative opportunities with neighboring institutions.
Throughout the 20th century, the college developed a reputation for academic rigor and leadership development. Its curriculum continued to evolve, preparing students for careers in medicine, law, business, public service, and the arts.
Over time, Morehouse has educated more than 15,000 graduates, reflecting its enduring role in shaping generations of African American men. The college’s alumni have had a profound impact on American society. They include the following men.
- Martin Luther King Jr. (1948) became one of the most influential leaders of the Civil Rights Movement.
- Filmmaker Spike Lee (1979) revolutionized American cinema through his exploration of race and culture.
- Raphael Warnock (1991) has emerged as a prominent political leader.
- Actor Samuel L. Jackson (1972) has also achieved international acclaim for his contributions to film.
Since its founding in 1867, Morehouse College has maintained its commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and service. It continues to prepare students across a wide range of academic disciplines while upholding its historic mission of developing leaders who will contribute to society.
Footnotes:
- Morehouse College. “Our History.”
- Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Morehouse College.”
- Discover Atlanta. “The History of Morehouse College.”
