John H. Johnson
John H. Johnson
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
John Harold Johnson was born on August 19, 1918, in Arkansas City, Arkansas.
#### Birth and Death Dates
August 19, 1918 – October 8, 2005
#### Nationality and Profession(s)
American Publisher, Entrepreneur, and Philanthropist
Early Life and Background
Growing up in a low-income household, Johnson's family moved frequently due to the economic hardships faced during the Great Depression. His early life was marked by hardship and struggle; however, these challenges instilled in him a strong work ethic and determination that would shape his future endeavors.
Johnson's interest in business began at an early age when he sold newspapers on street corners. This entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish a small newspaper delivery service while still in high school. After graduating from DuSable High School in Chicago, Johnson worked as a mail clerk for the _Chicago Defender_ , where he eventually became a circulation manager.
Major Accomplishments
Johnson's most significant achievement was founding Ebony and Jet, two prominent African American magazines that catered to the growing middle-class black community. Launched in 1945, Ebony was initially intended as a more upscale alternative to _Life_ magazine. Johnson aimed to provide readers with high-quality photography and writing that reflected their experiences, interests, and aspirations.
Notable Works or Actions
Johnson's commitment to promoting African American culture, achievements, and perspectives was evident in his editorial decisions for Ebony and Jet. He hired prominent black writers and photographers, including Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen, and Gordon Parks. These efforts helped raise the profile of these artists while showcasing the rich cultural heritage of African Americans.
Impact and Legacy
Johnson's legacy is multifaceted:
Promoting African American representation: By creating a platform that highlighted black talent, achievement, and culture, Johnson played a crucial role in shaping the public narrative around African American experiences.
Empowering entrepreneurship: Johnson's success as an entrepreneur inspired countless others to pursue their business goals, demonstrating that with hard work and determination, individuals from diverse backgrounds can achieve greatness.
* Advancing social justice: Through his publications, Johnson addressed issues like racism, inequality, and civil rights, raising awareness about the struggles faced by African Americans.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
John H. Johnson's lasting impact on American society, media, and culture has cemented his place as a pioneer in promoting diversity and representation. His work continues to inspire generations of entrepreneurs, artists, and advocates for social justice.
Quotes by John H. Johnson
When I go in to see people – and I sell an occasional ad now – I never say, ‘Help me because I am black’ or ‘Help me because I am a minority.’ I always talk about what we can do for them.
I’m convinced that the only way to get ahead in this world is to live and sell dangerously. You’ve got to live beyond your means. You’ve got to commit yourself to an act or vision that pulls you further than you want to go and forces you to use your hidden strengths.
Dream small dreams. If you make them too big, you get overwhelmed and you don’t do anything. If you make small goals and accomplish them, it gives you the confidence to go on to higher goals.
I would tell young people to start where they are with what they have and that the secret of a big success is starting with a small success and dreaming bigger and bigger dreams, I would tell them also that a young Black woman or a young Black man can't dream too much today or dare too much if he or she works hard, perseveres and dedicates themselves to excellence.
I'm convinced that the only way to get ahead in this world is to live and sell dangerously. You've got to live beyond your means. You've got to commit yourself to an act or vision that pulls you further than you want to go and forces you to use your hidden strengths.
