John H. Johnson

John H. Johnson (1918–2005) was an influential African American entrepreneur, publisher, and businessman, best known for founding Ebony and Jet magazines. Born into poverty in Arkansas, he moved to Chicago with his family during the Great Migration. Despite financial hardships, Johnson excelled academically, and after attending the University of Chicago, he worked at an insurance company where he developed an interest in marketing to Black consumers.

John H. Johnson was the founder of Ebony and Jet magazines, which became significant cultural institutions within the African American community. His business success in publishing offered Black Americans representation in media at a time when mainstream publications largely ignored them.

In 1942, Johnson founded Negro Digest, a magazine focused on African American culture, history, and achievements. Its success led him to create Ebony in 1945, which became a highly popular lifestyle magazine celebrating Black excellence and positive imagery of African Americans. Jet, founded in 1951, became known for its coverage of news and current events, particularly civil rights issues, including the famous coverage of Emmett Till’s lynching.

Johnson built a media empire, Johnson Publishing Company, that became one of the most successful Black-owned businesses in America. He expanded his holdings to include fashion, cosmetics, and radio. Throughout his career, Johnson was dedicated to promoting positive portrayals of African Americans and providing a platform for Black voices. His work earned him numerous awards, and in 1982, he became the first African American to appear on the Forbes 400 list of wealthiest Americans.

John H. Johnson’s legacy as a media pioneer and advocate for Black empowerment continues to inspire generations.