The Universal Kings and Queens Society proudly

honors Clarence Edward Smith—also known as

Clarence 13X—as a U.S. Army veteran, visionary

teacher, and cultural pioneer born in Danville, Virginia.

After serving in the Korean War, Clarence returned

home and became a powerful voice during the civil

rights era. He taught young Black men self-defense,

discipline, and knowledge of self—blending martial

arts, science, and cultural pride into a unique

philosophy that uplifted underserved communities.

His teachings became the foundation for what would

later fuel the rise of Hip-Hop—not just as music, but

as a global movement. His message of self-awareness

and empowerment still echoes through the work of

artists like Rakim, RZA, Big Daddy Kane, KRS-One,

Nas, Wu-Tang Clan, Busta Rhymes, and Jay-Z.

In his honor, we are creating the Clarence Smith

Museum and Learning Center in Virginia—a place

to preserve his legacy, celebrate Hip-Hop’s deeper

roots, and inspire future generations through culture,

education, and community.

Clarence Smith didn’t just serve his country—he

sparked a movement. His legacy lives on.