Carolyn Bryant Donham, a name that may not be immediately familiar to everyone, was a central figure in one of the most significant events of the Civil Rights Movement. In 1955, she accused Emmett Till of making advances toward her, ultimately leading to Till’s murder by Roy Bryant and J.W. Milam. More than six decades after Till’s death, Donham’s name is back in the headlines following her death on Apr. 28.

“This is important in history because it was a prominent example of the intense racism that was prevalent in the U.S., and especially in the South, during this time period that led to the deaths of many black Americans,” World History teacher Ashley Mayfield said.

Donham was the last living person who held responsibility for Till’s death; and like Bryant and Milam, Donham passed away without facing consequences for her false accusations against Till.

“She was not held accountable because the authorities at the time did not convict the men who killed Mr. Till,” Collin College professor Felisha Avery said. “To add insult to injury, the woman [Donham] that instigated the events around Till’s kidnapping and subsequent murder was never resolved, and no one served time for it even though it was all based on a lie that she stated happened.”

For many people, such as senior Ayo Olotu, Donham’s death has reopened a painful chapter in American history.

“Her death is significant because it’s a reminder of how recent such inhumane actions were against Black people and African Americans and how recent segregation was,” Olotu said. “Many people have an idea that this kind of racism and violence is a distant memory, but the reality is that if Emmett Till were alive today, he would be the same age as many people’s grandparents. In a way, I also think it’s a sick reminder of the injustice faced in our country.”

The death of Donham has extinguished any lingering hope of her being held accountable for her role in Till’s death. 

“I think her death will definitely be a relief to some, but also anger,” Olotu said. “The fact that she was able to live such a long life and face no repercussions is outrageous to many, but it definitely holds more offense for the Till family.”