In the late 19th century, Henry Ossawa Tanner became the first African American artist to achieve fame in Europe. Drawing on training he received at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Tanner’s early work represented African Americans with dignity and respect. In a speech at the "Congress on Africa" at Chicago’s World’s Columbian Exposition, he encouraged other artists to do the same and oppose the predominant racial stereotypes of his era. Ultimately Tanner turned toward religious themes and brought a fresh perspective to time-honored Biblical subjects. Presented by art historian Jeff Mishur.