The Divine Nine: The History of African American Fraternities and Sororities

This comprehensive history of African American fraternities and sororities celebrates the spirit of Black excellence in higher education and the organizations that have helped shape generations of leaders in politics, sports, the arts, and culture, including Kamala Harris, Colin Kaepernick, Michael Jordan, Thurgood Marshall, and Toni Morrison.

America’s Black fraternities and sororities have played a unique and vital role in African American history, providing opportunities for students to support one another while serving their communities and the nation.

From pioneering contributions to the suffrage movement and the Civil Rights Movement to impactful mentoring and community service initiatives, members of these organizations share a proud tradition of brotherhood, sisterhood, scholarship, and service.

Today, the nation’s nine historically Black fraternities and sororities comprise millions of members with chapters at HBCUs, Ivy League institutions, and universities across the country, including Stanford University, Howard University, and the University of Chicago.

A valuable resource for readers of all ages, this book highlights the enduring legacy and influence of these organizations and their contributions to American history and culture.