Who founded Black Entertainment Television (BET) and became the first African American billionaire?

Prepare for the African American History Brookline Edition Test. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, with hints and explanations for each. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Who founded Black Entertainment Television (BET) and became the first African American billionaire?

Explanation:
Robert L. Johnson is the correct answer. He founded Black Entertainment Television to provide Black-focused programming and representation on TV, building BET into a major cable network. When Viacom bought BET in 2001 for about $3 billion, Johnson’s stake made him the first African American billionaire. This showcases how owning a media outlet can create legendary wealth and influence in American business history. While Oprah Winfrey, Tyler Perry, and Michael Jordan are notable Black billionaires and media figures, none founded BET.

Robert L. Johnson is the correct answer. He founded Black Entertainment Television to provide Black-focused programming and representation on TV, building BET into a major cable network. When Viacom bought BET in 2001 for about $3 billion, Johnson’s stake made him the first African American billionaire. This showcases how owning a media outlet can create legendary wealth and influence in American business history. While Oprah Winfrey, Tyler Perry, and Michael Jordan are notable Black billionaires and media figures, none founded BET.

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