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Charles Richard Drew was born on June 3rd 1904 in Washington D.C, an era of profound racial segregation.
Charles Richard Drew was born on June 3rd 1904 in Washington D.C, an era of profound racial segregation.
Charles with his siblings: (left to right) Joseph Drew, Nora Drew, and Elsie Drew.
Childhood
Childhood
Despite the societal challenges, Drew had a fulfilling childhood, that was full of hard work and a desire to succeed. He grew up in a supportive household that valued education and community service (Tan and Merritt 2017). His father, Richard Thomas Drew, worked as a carpet layer and his mother, Nora Burrell Drew, was a teacher before dedicating herself to raising Charles and his siblings.
Teenage Years
Teenage Years
Washington was the segregated capital of the United States during the early 20th century, leading to Drew experiencing firsthand the systemic racism of the time. Despite this, his community was able to provide him with opportunities that allowed him to succeed. He attended Dunbar High School, which was an elite school for African Americans that had a reputation for students who garnered high achievements (Charles Richard ... [date unknown]). Here, Drew was a talented athlete, becoming a star in football, basketball, and track. His achievements led to him receiving a sports scholarship to Amherst College.
Drew with his Dunbar High School Men's Basketball Team, 1920-21.
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