Mobile native James Reese Europe was an accomplished conductor, bandleader, and composer of popular songs during the early twentieth century. A key figure in the transformation of orchestral ragtime into jazz, Europe was an effective champion of African American musicians. His direction of the Harlem Hellfighters regimental band in France during his World War 1 helped spread jazz to an international audience. He is buried with military honors in Arlington National Cemetery.
Photos courtesy of: Alamy