Document Type
Presentation
Publication Date
1-27-2015
Abstract
Gregory, Richard Claxton “Dick” (Born, October 12, 1932, St. Louis, Mo.), African American comedian and civil rights activist whose social satire changed the way white Americans perceived African American comedians since he first performed in public. Gregory’s autobiography, Nigger, was published in 1963 prior to The assassination of President Kennedy, and became the number one best-selling book in America. Over the decades it has sold in excess of seven million copies. His choice for the title was explained in the forward, where Dick Gregory wrote a note to his mother. “Whenever you hear the word ‘Nigger’,” he said, “you’ll know their advertising my book.” In 1984 he founded Health Enterprises, Inc., a company that distributed weight loss products. In 1987 Gregory introduced the Slim-Safe Bahamian Diet, a powdered diet mix, which was immensely profitable. Economic losses caused in part by conflicts with his business partners led to his eviction from his home in 1992. Gregory remained active, however, and in 1996 returned to the stage in his critically acclaimed one-man show, Dick Gregory Live! The reviews of Gregory’s show compared him to the greatest stand-ups in the history of Broadway.
Recommended Citation
Gregory, Richard Claxton, "An Evening with Richard Claxton “Dick” Gregory, Civil Rights Activist, Nutritionist, Comedian, and Author" (2015). Droppin' Knowledge Lecture Series. 3.
https://bluetigercommons.lincolnu.edu/droppin_knowledge/3
Comments
Mr. Gregory is the third speaker in the Droppin' Knowledge Lincoln University Lecture Series. The series was developed by Lincoln University Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Dr. Said Sewell. The series is meant to bring engaging speakers to the campus and community.