The Unique History of Alabama State University “You have to go back to the past to move forward” is an old African proverb which was used to explain the purpose of the study of history. This African proverb not only refers to the study of American history, but also to the study of family history. Another saying used to refer to the study of history is: "You must learn your history, otherwise you are forced to repeat it." These principles can also be applied to education. The purpose of attending college is to receive a formal education. The right approach to starting a college education is to learn the history of your school. Highlighting difficulties and obstacles during the early stages of a school's development; in addition to a deeper respect for a university, can be obtained and, if obtained, will serve as additional motivation. This is true on the campus of Alabama State University in Montgomery, Alabama. The unique history of Lincoln Normal School, now Alabama State University, is a major area of ​​interest in the study of this university's history. Modern Alabama State University is a product of the mid-19th century idea, championed by African Americans, of opening universities for slaves. This idea was difficult to implement because most slaves were uneducated and there was no means of communication due to lack of a unifying language. The end of the Civil War in 1865 increased the nation's need, particularly in the South, to provide formal education to newly freed slaves. As a result, the nation's first historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) were founded. The first historic black universities, which were founded with money from the American Missionary Association, and middle of paper...... after the birthplace of William B. Paterson, which was Tullibody, Scotland. HC Trenholm Hall and GW Trenholm Hall are named for Harper Council Trenholm and George W. Trenholm. H. C. Trenholm raised the educational status of the university from a junior college to a four-year college, and G. W. Trenholm advanced the school to a school of normal education. Alabama State University's unique history is filled with slaves' dreams for a better life. Payton Finley took the first step in bringing slaves' dreams to life. The obstacles overcome by the influential figures who contributed to the success of the university will always be a source of inspiration to the students who attend this prestigious university. Alabama State University lives up to its motto: “A proud tradition…the promise of a bright future.!"