A Look at the Stories of Inspiring Black Americans Who Have Shaped the Country

Black Americans have shaped the U.S. Over the years, Inside Edition has spoken to and profiled key figures in politics, sports, entertainment and religion who have pushed for representation and equality. James Brown, Michael Jordan, Beyonce, Aretha Franklin, Barack Obama and Muhammad Ali are just some of the inspiring individuals we've looked at. We have also met the youngest pastor in the country who took up the teachings of the Bible in hopes to make a difference in his community.