Percy Julian: A Trailblazing Chemist Who Overcame Adversity

Percy Julian, a name that resonates deeply in the world of chemistry, was not just a scientist; he was a beacon of hope and inspiration. He was born on April 11, 1899, in Montgomery, Alabama, and faced numerous obstacles due to his race. Despite these challenges, he became a leading figure in the chemical synthesis of important medicinal drugs. His journey exemplifies resilience, determination, and groundbreaking achievements that changed the landscape of science.

Who Was Percy Julian?

Percy Julian was a pioneering chemist who faced significant barriers in education and employment due to his race. Initially denied the opportunity to attend high school, he overcame this setback by working tirelessly to earn his Ph.D. His groundbreaking research led to the synthesis of drugs that treat conditions like glaucoma and arthritis. Despite the discrimination he faced, Julian is celebrated as one of the most influential chemists in American history.

Early Life

Percy Lavon Julian was born into a family of former slaves. He attended school until the eighth grade but found no high schools available for Black students in his area. Undeterred, he applied to DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, taking high school-level classes in the evenings to catch up with his peers. His hard work paid off as he graduated first in his class, receiving Phi Beta Kappa honors.

Life in Academia

After completing his undergraduate education, Julian began his academic career as a chemistry instructor at Fisk University. In 1923, he received a scholarship to attend Harvard University for his master's degree, but he was not allowed to pursue his doctorate there. He spent several years teaching at various Black colleges before finally earning his Ph.D. from the University of Vienna in 1931.

Later Career and Death

After earning his doctorate, Julian returned to DePauw to continue his research. In 1935, he gained international recognition for synthesizing physostigmine, a drug treatment for glaucoma. However, his success was met with racial barriers, and he was denied a full professorship. Seeking new opportunities, he applied to several chemical companies but faced repeated rejections due to racial discrimination. Eventually, he became the lab director at Glidden Company, where he invented Aero-Foam, a significant product used during World War II.

Recognition

Percy Julian's contributions were eventually recognized within the scientific community. In 1973, he became the first Black chemist to be elected to the National Academy of Sciences. His work was further honored in 1990 when he was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame. The American Chemical Society recognized his synthesis of physostigmine in 1999 as one of the top 25 achievements in the history of American chemistry.

Personal Life

Julian's personal life was marked by both love and controversy. He met his wife, Anna Roselle, while working at Howard University, but they faced scandal and backlash that led to his firing. Despite the challenges, they married in 1935 and had two children. In 1950, they moved to Oak Park, Illinois, where their home was firebombed due to their race, but they remained strong in the face of adversity. Julian’s life was later featured in a PBS documentary titled Forgotten Genius.

Key Takeaways

Julian’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of perseverance and dedication in the face of adversity. His accomplishments continue to inspire future generations of scientists and highlight the importance of equity in education and the workplace.