Francis Crest Wellson

Frances Cress Welsing was an African American psychiatrist, author, and social theorist known for her writings on racism and white supremacy. Born on March 18, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois, she dedicated much of her life to studying the psychological effects of racism on global society.

Dr. Welsing earned her medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine and worked for many years as a psychiatrist in Washington, D.C. She became widely known for her book The Isis Papers: The Keys to the Colors, where she presented her theories about racism as a global system of power.

Throughout her career, she lectured internationally on African history, Black empowerment, education, and cultural identity. Many people admired her for encouraging African-descended communities to study their history, build unity, and strengthen self-awareness.

Her work sparked both support and criticism, but she remained an influential voice in discussions about race, psychology, and African-centered thought. Dr. Frances Cress Welsing passed away on January 2, 2016, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Black intellectual and cultural movements.