Since first convening in 1789, the U.S. Senate has had nine African-American members, three of whom from Illinois.

Carol Moseley-Braun broke many barriers when she assumed office in 1993. Not only was she the fourth African-American U.S. Senator, she was also the first African-American woman and the first female from Illinois to serve in the Senate. 

Barack Obama became the fifth African-American U.S. Senator when he was elected in 2005, followed by Roland Burris, who was appointed to fill Obama’s seat in 2008.

The make-up of the current Senate includes two African-American Senators, Cory Booker from New Jersey and Tim Scott from South Carolina.

Learn more:
Breaking New Ground – African American Senators