South Carolina, with its rich history and vibrant culture, has been the birthplace of many influential individuals who have left an indelible mark on both the national and international stages. This list of famous people from South Carolina showcases their diverse achievements across various fields such as politics, sports, music, and the arts.

Famous People from South Carolina

Jesse Jackson (Born 1941) Nationality: American Known For: Civil Rights Activism An American civil rights activist and Baptist minister from Greenville, Jackson has been a prominent figure in advocating for civil rights and social justice in the United States and around the world.	Darius Rucker (Born 1966) Nationality: American Known For: Music From Charleston, Rucker first gained fame as the lead vocalist of Hootie & the Blowfish before forging a successful solo country music career, showcasing his versatile talent.	Althea Gibson (1927-2003) Nationality: American Known For: Tennis, Breaking Racial Barriers A Clarendon County native, Gibson broke racial barriers in tennis to become the first African American to win a Grand Slam title.
Benjamin E. Mays (1894-1984) Nationality: American Known For: Education, Civil Rights Leadership Born in Greenwood County, Mays was a notable Baptist minister, educator, and civil rights leader who served as a mentor to Martin Luther King Jr.	Robert Mills (1781-1855) Nationality: American Known For: Architecture, Designing the Washington Monument Born in Charleston, Mills was an architect who designed the Washington Monument, making a lasting impact on American architecture.	Stephen Colbert (Born 1964) Nationality: American Known For: Comedy, Television Hosting A comedian, writer, and television host from Charleston, Colbert has become one of the most influential satirists in America.
James Brown (1933-2006) Nationality: American Known For: Funk Music, Influence on Soul and R&B The “Godfather of Soul,” born in Barnwell, Brown was a seminal figure in the development of funk music.	Andrew Jackson (1767-1845) Nationality: American Known For: 7th President of the United States The 7th President of the United States, born in the Waxhaws region, Jackson’s presidency is marked by significant events that shaped the nation’s early history.	John C. Calhoun (1782-1850) Nationality: American Known For: Politics, Advocacy of States’ Rights Born in Abbeville District, Calhoun was a leading American politician and political theorist, known for his strong advocacy of states’ rights.
Joe Frazier (1944-2011) Nationality: American Known For: Boxing Born in Beaufort, Frazier was a heavyweight boxing champion known for his legendary bouts with Muhammad Ali, including the iconic “Thrilla in Manila.”	Robert Smalls (1839-1915) Nationality: American Known For: Civil War Hero, Politician A native of Beaufort, Smalls was an enslaved African American who became a Civil War hero, a U.S. Congressman, and a significant figure in the Reconstruction era.	Nikki Haley (Born 1972) Nationality: American Known For: Politics, United Nations Ambassador Born in Bamberg, Haley served as the Governor of South Carolina and the United States Ambassador to the United Nations, known for her leadership and advocacy on international issues.
Eartha Kitt (1927-2008) Nationality: American Known For: Singing, Acting, Dancing An iconic singer, actress, and dancer from North, Kitt’s distinctive voice and dynamic presence made her a global star in entertainment.	Edwin McCain (Born 1970) Nationality: American Known For: Music, Songwriting Hailing from Greenville, McCain is a singer-songwriter best known for his hit songs “I’ll Be” and “I Could Not Ask for More.”	Mary McLeod Bethune (1875-1955) Nationality: American Known For: Education, Civil Rights Leadership Born in Mayesville, Bethune was a pioneering educator and civil rights leader who founded the National Council of Negro Women.