A.G. Gaston was dubbed the Black Titan due to his innovative approach to business. Gaston’s simple business tactic of providing basic services in disenfranchised black communities in the South made him the “toast of the town“. The former coal miner from Demopolis, Alabama turned millionaire, prided himself on being one of America’s First True African American moguls with enterprises ranging from construction and insurance to the hospitality industry. Salute to a man who is the role model to a new generation of business people. If you want to learn more about A.G. Gaston check out the book about his life: Black Titan: A. G. Gaston and the Making of a Black American.
!YG
Filed under: Books, Money Matters by !YG
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As Black History Month comes 2 a close we must continue to pay homage to those individuals who defied previously set social norms.
Today we highlight Donyale Luna a.k.a Peggy Anne Freeman who was the FIRST Black Supermodel to grace the cover of Vogue Magazine in the March 1966 issue. The turbulence of the time period makes this image an interesting cover and an even more powerful social statement. Even though Luna was breaking new ground, the partial covering of her face is a clear indication of society’s discomfort with the beauty of a Black Woman in the 60’s.
Originally born in “The D” – Detroit, Michigan… Luna moved to NY in the 50’s with the dream of becoming a model. This elegant fashionista not only graced the cover of Vogue, but also was on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar in 1965.
1966 was dubbed “The Year of the Luna” by Time Magazine as she was crowned one of the top models in the game. Salvador Dalà (the famous Spanish Artist) considered Luna to be one of his favorite models and muse for many of his most famous pieces.
Besides being a phenomenal model, Luna did her thing on the Silver Screen. She appeared in several Warhol flicks and even did a movie with the infamous Otto Preminger.
Beverly, Naomi, Tyra, and even Jennifer Hudson should pay respects 2 the woman who laid the groundwork. That being said how much progress have we really made in the fashion world? Has this Cafe au lait beauty open new doors or birthed cacophony of new stereotypes?
–!YG & PIPER
More Images of Donyale Luna
Filed under: Stylin' On You by !YG
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