Background
Source: Wikipedia
Alfred Oscar Coffin (May 14, 1861 – 1933) was a professor of mathematics and Romance language. He is best known for being the first African American to obtain a PhD in biology. Coffin earned his bachelor's degree and master's degree at Fisk University. In 1889, he earned his PhD in biology at Illinois Wesleyan University. His thesis was titled "The Origin of the Mound Builders". In 1887, Coffin taught at Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College for two years in Mississippi.
