John Hope Franklin, historian and civil rights icon, passed away yesterday in Durham, N.C.  He was 94.

"Dr. Franklin's legacy and work will continue to guide us along our national road to an equal and just society.  Throughout his life, he worked tirelessly to make sure that the story of America includes the stories of us all, and today we honor his memory," said Wade Henderson, president and CEO of LCCR, in a statement.

Franklin had a long and varied career in public service and education.  He was a world-renowned historian of the Black American experience.  His 1947 book, "From Slavery to Freedom: A History of Negro Americans" is considered the definitive history of African Americans.  He regularly updated the book and it is currently in its 8th printing.

In 2007, LCCR honored Franklin with its Hubert H. Humphrey Civil Rights Award for his lifelong commitment to incorporating African Americans into American historical texts and representations.  This clip from a video shown during the 2007 award dinner tells Franklin's story and why he has become a civil rights icon.