Colin Powell (April 5, 1937 – October 18, 2021) was a distinguished American statesman and military leader, renowned for breaking racial barriers in U.S. government. Born in New York City to Jamaican immigrant parents, Powell grew up in the South Bronx and graduated from the City College of New York in 1958 with a bachelor’s degree in geology. He joined the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) during college, which set the course for his 35-year military career.
Throughout his military tenure, Powell held numerous command and staff positions, ascending to the rank of four-star general. From 1989 to 1993, he served as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, overseeing critical events such as the Gulf War. He was the first African American to hold this position.
In 2001, Powell became the 65th U.S. Secretary of State under President George W. Bush, making history as the first African American to serve in this role. His tenure lasted until 2005, during which he played a significant role in shaping U.S. foreign policy.
Powell’s leadership was characterized by his pragmatic approach, encapsulated in the “Powell Doctrine,” which emphasized the use of overwhelming force in military engagements and the necessity of clear objectives and public support.
He passed away on October 18, 2021, at the age of 84, due to complications from COVID-19, while battling a form of blood cancer that compromised his immune system.
In March 2025, the Pentagon removed references to Powell and other notable minority figures from its diversity-related content, sparking discussions about the portrayal of historical figures.