1922 - Jazz Musician Charles Mingus Born
Charles Mingus Jr. Bio Civil Rights Activist, Pianist, Guitarist, Songwriter (1922–1979) Quick Facts Name : Charles Mingus Occupation : Civil... Continue →
1965 - Malcolm X delivers speech at the London School of Economics
On this date in 1965, Malcolm X delivers speech at the London School of Economics, to a meeting sponsored by the school's Africa Society.
1938 - Cornetist and bandleader, Joe King Oliver, dies
Joseph Nathan Oliver, better known as King Oliver or Joe Oliver, was an American jazz cornet player and bandleader. He was particularly recognized... Continue →
1920 - American Jazz Singer Carmen Mercedes McRae was born.
On April 8, 1920, American Jazz Singer Carmen McRae was born. After winning an amateur contest at Harlem's legendary Appolllo Theatre in her home... Continue →
1965 - Malcolm X delivers last speech at Ford Auditorium, after his home in New York was firebombed.
On this date in 1965, Malcolm X delivers last speech at Ford Auditorium, after his home in New York was firebombed.
1948 - Singer Donna Summer born.
Singer Donna Summer, known as "Queen of Disco," is born on this day in Boston, Massachusetts.
Mind blowing Jazz Pianist playing Art Tatum's Tiger Rag
Art Tatum was a jazz pianist and virtuoso who was nearly blind. He is acknowledged by many to be one of the greatest pianists of all time,... Continue →
Thelonious Monk who was a jazz pianist and composer
Some of the most complex and dissonant harmonies can be found in the repertoire of pianist and composer Thelonious Monk, one of the most important... Continue →
Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers: Moanin' - All About Jazz
Art Blakey was a famous American drummer and bandleader who revolutionized the way jazz drums were played. His unique approach to drumming... Continue →
Dizzy Gillespie - Jazz and Blues Masters Series
American jazz trumpet player, singer, composer and bandleader, Gillespie was very significant in the development of bebop and modern jazz. His... Continue →
Relive the birth of bebop style jazz through the life of drummer Max Roach
Max Roach is considered to be one of the greatest drummers in history, and was a renowned bebop pioneer. He is, along with a select few, essentially... Continue →
Billie Holiday was an American jazz singer and songwriter
“Lady Day” was perhaps the most exceptional popular music singer of the 20th century. She wrote few songs, but when she sang, she took on a deep,... Continue →
John William Coltrane, also known as "Trane"
John Coltrane is virtually synonymous with the word “cool.” At the forefront of hard bop, Coltrane, a composer and saxophone virtuoso, made... Continue →
1978- Max Robinson becomes the first African-American broadcast network news anchor in the United States
Max Robinson (1939-1988) overcame racial barriers in the media industry when he became the first African-American television anchor in Washington,... Continue →
1961-Nicholas Biddle, the First African American in uniform wounded in Civil War
Nicholas Biddle becomes the first African American in uniform to be wounded in the Civil War. Nicholas (Nick) Biddle, did odd jobs around town, and... Continue →
Poor Peoples Campaign
Poor People's Campaign began with Ralph Abernathy, SCLC president, leading delegations of leaders representing poor White, Black,... Continue →
1899 - American jazz pianist, composer, and bandleader Duke Ellington born
Edward "Duke" Ellington, born in Washington, D. C.
1929-John Conyers, Jr , was born
Congressman John Conyers, Jr , the founder of the Congressional Black Caucus was born.
1960-President Eisenhower signed Civil Rights Act of 1960.
President Eisenhower signed Civil Rights Act of 1960. The Civil Rights Act of 1960 (Pub.L. 86–449, 74 Stat. 89, enacted May 6, 1960) was a United... Continue →
1886-Inventor M. A. Cherry patented the Tricycle.
On May 6, 1886, M. A. Cherry created the tricycle a three wheeled vehicle that is used for transportation.
1878-Joseph Richard Winters receives patent for the wagon-mounted fire escape ladder.
Joseph Richard Winters was an African-American abolitionist and inventor who, on May 7, 1878 received U.S. Patent number 203,517 for a wagon-mounted... Continue →
1925-Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters was organized
The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Poters (BSCP) ,an influential African American labor union, was organized by Founding President A. Philip Randolph,... Continue →
1750-The South Carolina Gazette reports that a South Carolina slave named Caesar granted freedom.
The South Carolina Gazette reports that a South Carolina slave and medical practitioner named Caesar granted freedom and lifetime... Continue →
1950-Jackie Robinson appears on cover of Life Magazine
Jackie Robinson appears on the cover of Life Magazine. This marked the first time an African American was featured on the cover of Life Magazine is... Continue →
1933-Louis Farrakhan Muhammad, Sr was born on this day.
Louis Farrakhan Muhammad, Sr , born Louis Eugene Walcott, was born on this day.
1958-Summit Meeting of National Negro Leaders called
Summit meeting of National Negro Leaders called for stepped up campaign againts discrimination and desegregation. Then President Eisenhower was... Continue →
1914-Joseph Luis Barrow (Joe Louis) was born on this day
JOSEPH LOUIS BARROW (Joe Louis) was born on this day. Joseph Luis Barrow , the legendary "Brown Bomber," is still considered by many to be the... Continue →
1969-John B. Mclendon becomes first African American professional head coach.
John B. Mclendon becomes first African American American Basketball Association (ABA) head coach and the first African American professional head... Continue →
1946-Camilla Ella Williams debuts in Madam Butterfly.
Camilla Ella Williams, believed to be the first African American women to sign a contract with a major American opera company, appears in the role of... Continue →
1867-Howard University, was established.
On this dated in 1867, Howard University, in Washington, D. C. named for General Oliver O. Howard, was established.
1920-First game of the National Negro Baseball League
First game of the National Negro Baseball League played in Indianapolis.
1845-Macon Bolling Allen passes bar examination
Macon Bolling Allen, first African American lawyer admitted to the bar, passed examination at Worchester, Massachusetts. Macon B. Allen was the... Continue →
1897-J. H. Smith patents Lawn Sprinkler
J. H. Smith patents Lawn Sprinkler May 4, 1897. Patent Number 581785.
1896-Cowboy Bill Pickett earns the title of inventor of Bull Dogging
Cowboy Bill Pickett invented the technique of bulldogging, the skill of grabbing cattle by the horns and wrestling them to the ground. It was known... Continue →
1905-Robert Sengstacke Abbott finds the Chicago Defender calling it,
Robert S. Abbott was founded The Chicago Defender with an initial investment of 25 cents. The Defender, which was once heralded as "The World's... Continue →
1947 – Jackie Robinson debuts for the Brooklyn Dodgers, breaking baseball's color line.
Jackie Robinson debuts for the Brooklyn Dodgers, breaking baseball's color line.
1988 - Dr. Patricia E. Bath, a remowned opthalmologist and inventor, patents Laserphaco Probe on this day.
Dr. Patricia E. Bath, a renowned ophthalmologist and inventor, patented the Laserphaco Probe, a medical device that improves on the use of lasers to... Continue →
1962 - Ernie Davis dies
Ernie Davis, an American football halfback at Syracuse University and the first African-American athlete to win the Heisman Trophy in 1961, dies... Continue →
1965 - Patricia Roberts Harris becomes ambassador to Luxembourg.
Patricia Roberts Harris names ambassador to Luxembourg. She was the first African American woman ambassador. Quote -"You do not seem to... Continue →
1952-Boxer Marvin Hagler born on this date
Boxer Marvelous Marvin Hagler born in Newark, New jersey on this date. Marvelous Marvin Hagler was the undisputed middleweight champion of the world... Continue →
1921 - Christopher J Perry, founder of The Philadlphia Tribune, dies.
Christopher J. Perry, a pioneering black businessman who championed racial equality, established the Philadelphia Tribune in 1884. The Tribune is... Continue →
1959 - Benjamin O. Davis, Jr. becomes first African American general in the U.S. Air Force.
Benjamin O. Davis, Jr., pilot, officer, and administrator, became the first African American officer to reach the rank of major general (a two-star... Continue →
1871 - Landrow Bell patents Locomotive Smoke Stack on this day.
Landrow Bell patents Locomotive Smoke Stack on this day. Patent #115,153.
1951 - Racial Segregation in Washington, D. C. ruled illegal by city's Municipal Court of Appeals.
Racial Segregation in Washington, D. C. ruled illegal by the city's Municipal Court of Appeals.
1926 - Trumpeter Miles Davis is born on this date.
Miles Davis, American jazz musician, trumpeter, bandleader, and composer was born on this date. Miles Davis was, together with his musical... Continue →
1969 - National Black Economic Development Conference adopts manifesto
National Black Economic Development Conference adopted manifesto in Detroit meeting calling for $500 Million in reparations from white churches.
1942 - Doris (Dorie) Miller awarded Navy Cross on this date.
Doris (Dorie) Miller, a Messman Third Class in the United States Navy noted for his bravery during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941,... Continue →
1944 - Singer Gladys Knight was born on this date.
Singer, songwriter, businesswoman, humanitarian and author Gladys Knight , "The Empress of Soul" was born in Atlanta, Georgia on this date.
1973 - Thomas J. "Tom" Bradley elected Mayor of Los Angeles on this date.
Thomas J. "Tom" Bradley elected Mayor of Los Angeles on this date. Bradley was the 38th Mayor of Los Angeles, serving from 1973 to 1993. He was... Continue →
1943 - Gale Eugene Sayers was born on this date.
Gale Eugene Sayers, also known as "The Kansas Comet", was born on this date in Wichita, Kansas. Sayers' is a former American college and... Continue →
1955 - Supreme Court ordered school integration.
On May 31, 1955, The Supreme Court ruled in what became known as "Brown II,” that the task of carrying out school desegregation was delegated to... Continue →
1994 - South Africa rejoined the Commonwealth
South Africa rejoined the Commonwealth after an absence of 33 years.
1843 - Sojourner Truth begins career as antislavery activist on this date.
Sojourner Truth leaves New York and begins career as an antislavery activist.
1835 - The 5th National Negro Convention takes on the word negro
The 5th National Negro Convention meets in Philadelphia and urged African Americans to abandon the use of terms "African" and "colored" when... Continue →
1975 - James A. Healy, becomes first African American Roman Catholic Bishop on this date.
James A. Healy, first African American Roman Catholic Bishop, consecrated in the cathedral at Portland, Maine.
1951 - Kenneth Irvine Chenault, an African American business executive born on this date.
Kenneth Irvine Chenault is an American business executive. Chenault has been the CEO and Chairman of American Express since 2001and is the third... Continue →
1949 - Wesley A. Brown becomes first African American graduate of Annapolis Naval Academy.
Wesley A. Brown becomes first African American graduate of Annapolis Naval Academy.
1991 - Baltimore Orioles Manager Frank Robinson names Assistant General Manager on this date
Baltimore Orioles Manager Frank Robinson names Assistant General Manager on this date. Robinson was the third African American to become an... Continue →
1973 - Doris A. Davis becomes the first African-American woman mayor of a metropolitan city in the United States.
Doris A. Davis, of Compton California, becomes the first African-American woman mayor of a metropolitan city in the United States.
1956 - Montgomery buses segregated on this date.
Federal Court Rules that racial segregation on Montgomery City buses violated Constitution.
1987 - Mae C. Jemison chosen to be an astronaut on thuis date.
Mae C. Jemison, M. D. was chosen by NASA to begin training as a space shuttle astronaut on this date.
2015 - Golfer Calvin Pete passes away on this date.
Calvin Peete was a professional golfer who won 12 PGA events during his long career. Peete was famous for his ability to hit long and accurate... Continue →
1930 - New York Times adopted the captilized spelling of the term Negro
Respecting Negro demand, the New York Times announces that the "N" in the word "Negro" and "Negress" would be capitalized in its pages. The New York... Continue →
1982 - Satchel Paige, passes away on this date.
Legendary Pitcher Satchel Paige dies in Kansas City, Missouri. Satchel was an American Negro league baseball and Major League Baseball pitcher who... Continue →
1948 - Oliver W. Hill elected to Richmond City Council on this date.
Oliver W. Hill elected to Richmond, Virginia, City Council becoming the first African American to do so since Reconstruction.
1946 - Boxer Jack Johnson dies on this date.
Heavy Weight Boxer Jack Johnson dies on this date.
1898 - Oscar Award Winning Actress Hattie McDanial born on this date.
Oscar Award Winning Actress Hattie McDanial born on this date.
1760 - AME founder Richard Allen was born on this date.
African Methodist Episcopal Church founder Richard Allen was born on this date. Allen was born a slave near Philadelphia.
1964 - Nelson Mandela sentnced to Life imprisonment on this date.
Nelson Mandela was sentenced to Life imprisonment for allegedly attempting to sabotage the White South African government.
1930 - U.S. Congressman Charles Rangel born on this date.
United States Congressman Charles Rangel born on this date
1972 - The National Black MBA Assciation is incorporated.
The National Black MBA Assciation is incorporated.
1963 - Medgar W. Evers assissinated.
Medgar W. Evers , NAACP field secretary in Mississippi, assassinated in front of his Jackson home by a segregationist.
1967 - Thurgood Marshall become First African American Supreme Court Justice.
Thurgood Marshall, United States Solicitor General, name to the Supreme Court by President Johnson. Marshall was confirmed by the Senate on August... Continue →
1989 - Congressman William Gray elected Democratic Whip
Congressman William Gray elected Democratic Whip of the House of Representatives, the highest ranking position ever held by a African American in... Continue →
1970 - Cheryl Adrienne Brown wins Miss Iowa pageant.
Cheryl Adrienne Brown wins Miss Iowa pageant and becomes the first African American to compete in the Miss America beauty pageant.
1877 - Henry O. Flipper graduates West Point.
Henry O. Flipper receives degree at West Point and becomes the first African American graduate.
2002 - Tiger Woods wins U. S. Open Gold Tournament.
Tiger Woods wins U. S. Open Gold Tournament.
1969 - Clayton Powell Jr. suspension deemed unconstitutional.
United States Supreme Court rules that the suspension of Clayton Powel Jr. from the House of Representatives was unconstitutional.
1957 - Tuskegee Boycott began
Tuskegee Boycott began. African American's boycotted city stores in protest against act of state legislature that deprived them of municipal votes... Continue →
1968 - Housing Discrimination banned.
Supreme Court banned racial discrimination in sale and rental of housing.
1862 - Slavery Abolished in United States territories.
Slavery Abolished in United States territories in congress.
1953 - Albert W. Dent elected President of National Health Council.
Albert W. dent, president of Dillard University, elected president of National Health Council.
1967 - Muhammad Ali convicted for violating Selective Service Act.
Muhammad Ali convicted in Houston, Texas in federal court for violating Selective Service Act by refusing induction into the armed services. Ali was... Continue →
1943 - National Congress of Racial Equality organized.
National Congress of Racial Equality organized
1923 - Marcus Garvey sentnced to five years in prison.
Marcus Garvey sentenced to five years in prison after his conviction on charges of using the mail to defraud.
1915 -U.S. Supreme Court said"Grandfather Clause" violated the 15th Amendment.
United States Supreme Court (Guinn v United States) said "Grandfather Clause" in the Oklahoma and Maryland constitutions violated the 15th Amendment.
1970 - Richard Nixon signed bill extending Voting Rights
Richard Nixon signed bill extending Voting Rights Act of 1965 to 1975.
1937 - Joe Louis defeats Braddock
Joe Louis defeated James J. Barddock for heavyweight boxing championship.
1949 - Ezzard Charles defeats Jersey Joe Walcott
Ezzard Charles defeats Jersey Joe Walcott for the world heavy weight championship.
2003 - Maynard Jackson, three term mayor of Atlanta, dies.
Maynard Jackson, three term mayor of Atlanta, dies at the age of 65.
1940 - Three time Olympian Wilma Rudolph was born on this date.
Wilma Glodean Rudolph, the first African American women to with three gold medals, was born on this dated in Clarksville, Tennessee.
1936 - Mary Mcleod Bethune named Director of Negro Affairs.
Mary Mcleod Bethune , founder-president of Bethune-Cookman College, named Director of Negro Affairs of the National Youth Administration. Mary was... Continue →
1884 - John R. lynch elected temporary chairman of Republican convention.
John R. Lynch, former congressman from Mississippi, elected temporary chairmen of Republican convention and becomes the first African American to... Continue →
1968 - Lincoln Alexander become member of Canadian Parliament.
Lincoln Alexander becomes the first black member of the Canadian Parliament.
1876 - Isaiah Dorman dies at battle to Little Bighorn.
Isaiah Dorman dies at battle to Little Bighorn under the leadership of Colonel George Custer.
1959 - Prince Edward County abandons school system
Prince Edward County, Virginia, Board of Supervisors abandoned school system to prevent integration.
1938 - James Weldon Johnson dies in automobile accident.
James Weldon Johnson dies of injuries received in an automobile accident near his summer home in Wiscosset, Maine.
1934 - W. E. B. DuBois resigns from NAACP.
W. E. B. DuBois resigns from his position at the NAACP in a disagreement over policy and racial strategy.
1991 - Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall anounces retirement.
United States Supreme Court Thurgood Marshall announces his retirement.
1939 - Frederick Jones invents the ticket dispensing machine.
Frederick Jones invents the ticket dispensing machine, patent #2163754.
1874 - Freeman's Bank Closed
Freedman's Bank closed. African American depositors had some $3 million in the bank. The Freedman's Bank had an imposing headquarters in... Continue →
1972 - NAACP Annual Report
The NAACP annual report said the unemployment of "urban blacks in 1971 was worse than at anytime since the great depression of the thirties." The... Continue →
1968 - Louisiana legislature met in New Orleans
Louisiana legislature met in New Orleans. The temporary chairman of the house was African American Representative, R. H. Isabelle. Oscar J.... Continue →
1967 - Major Robert H. Lawrence Jr. named First African American astronaut.
Major Robert H. Lawrence Jr. named First African American astronaut. Major Lawrence was killed during a training flight on December 8, 1967.
1917 - Actress -Singer Lena Horne was born on this date.
Actress -Singer Lena Horne was born in Brooklyn, New York.
1901 - Guardian Newspaper was founded on this date
The Guardian newspaper was founded by William Monroe Trotter in Boston, Massachusetts.
1976 - Kenneth Gibson becomes Mayor of Newark
Kenneth Gibson, Mayor of Newark, became the first African American president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors.
1961 - Track star Carl Lewis was born on this date.
Olympic track and field star Carl Lewis was born in Willingboro, New Jersey.
1925 - Activist Medgar Evers born
Civil Rights activist Medgar Evers born in Decatur, Mississippi.
1908 - Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, born on this date.
The first African American Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, born in Baltimore.
1872 - E. McCoy patents steam engine lubricator on this date.
McCoy, E. patents Lubricator for Steam Engines on this date in 1872, Patent No. 129,843
1941 - Cab Calloway and his Orchestra recorded the standard, St. James Infirmary.
Cab Calloway and his Orchestra recorded the standard, St. James Infirmary, for Okey Records.
1904 - Charles Drew, born
Dr. Charles Drew was born in Washington DC. Drew attended medical schools in Montreal, Canada. After much research and study, Drew discovered a way... Continue →
1775 - Prince Hall Masonry founded
Prince Hall founded Africa Lodge No. 1. It was the first Black Lodge of Free Masons in the United States.
2002 - General B.O. Davis. Jr. dies
Four Star General Benjamin O. Davis, the first African American to become an Air Force General, died at age 89. He was the fourth African American to... Continue →
1910 - First Black heavyweight champion, Jack Johnson successfully defended his heavy
First Black heavyweight champion, Jack Johnson successfully defended his heavyweight championship by knocking out Jim "The Great White Hope"... Continue →
1900 - Daniel Louis ("Satchmo") Armstrong born on this date
Daniel Louis ("Satchmo") Armstrong born in New Orleans, Louisiana.
1881 - Institutions of Higher Learning Established
Booker T. Washington established Tuskegee Institute. Also founded in 1881 were Spelman College, Morris Brown College, and Bishop College.
1776 - Declaration of Independence adopted
Declaration of Independence adopted. A section denouncing the slave trade was deleted.
1975 - Arthur Ashe wins Wimbledon on this date.
Arthur Ashe makes history by becoming the first African American male to win the men's single title at Wimbledon, defeating Jimmy Connors.
1971 - Cellular Phone Invented
Henry Sampson, an African American, invented the cellular phone.
1906 - Baseball great Satchel Paige born on this date.
Baseball legend Satchel Paige was born in Mobile, Alabama.
2001 - Venus Williams wins her second straight Wimbledon
Venus Williams wins her second straight Wimbledon Women's Singles Championship. Venus is the first woman to win consecutive Wimbledon Championships... Continue →
1868 - Francis L. Cardozo
Francis L. Cardozo installed as secretary of the state of South Carolina and became the first Black cabinet officer on the state level.
1943 - Arthur Ashe is born on this date.
Arthur Ashe, Born July 10, 1943 in Richmond, Virginia. In 1963, Twenty-year-old Arthur Ashe becomes the first African-American to make the U.S. Davis... Continue →
1915 - Mifflin Wistar Gibbs, dies.
Mifflin Wistar Gibbs, dies. He worked in the Underground Railroad and with Frederick Douglass. He was also a clothing retailer, the publisher of the... Continue →
1949 - F.M. Jones patents a/c unit
Jones, F. M. Air Conditioning Unit July 12, 1949 Patent No. 2475841
1972 - Shirley Chisholm
Shirley Chisholm became the first African American Presidential nominee, with 151 votes from the delegates polled.
1951 - George Washington Carver National Monument presented in Joplin MO, 1951
George Washington Carver National Monument presented in Joplin, MO.
1822 - Philadelphia opens its Public schools for Blacks.
Philadelphia opens its Public schools for Blacks.
1822 - Violette A. Johnson was born on this date.
Violette A. Johnson, first African American woman to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court, born
1899 - L.C. Bailey granted patent # 620,286
L.C. Bailey granted patent # 620,286 for the folding bed
1941 - First U.S. Army flying school for Black cadets dedicated
First U.S. Army flying school for Black cadets dedicated at Tuskegee, Alabama.
2001 - Bluesman John Lee Hooker dies
Blues singer/guitarist John Lee Hooker, whose style influenced leganadary rockers including the Rolling Stones, died of natural causes. He was 83.
1967 - Black Power Conference
More than one thousand persons attended the first Black Power Conference in Newark, New Jersey.
1963 - Floyd Patterson is defeated by Sony Liston and loses his world heavyweight title
Floyd Patterson is defeated by Sony Liston and loses his world heavyweight title, 1963
1962 - Jackie Robinson inducted into Hall of Fame
Baseball great Jackie Robinson was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
1914 - Kenneth Bancroft Clark was born on this day.
Kenneth Bancroft Clark was born on this day.
1972 - The Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment, admitted to by US government
The Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment, where Blacks were used in experiments with syphilis, admitted to by US government officials, 1972
1926 - Spingarn Medal: Carter G. Woodson
Spingarn Medal awarded to Carter G. Woodson for "ten years devoted service in collecting and publishing the records of the Negro in America."
1880 - Inventor, AP Abourne was awarded patent for refining coconut oil.
Inventor, AP Abourne was awarded patent for refining coconut oil, 1880
1868 - The 14th Amendment, making Blacks citizens was passed.
The 14th Amendment, making blacks citizens was passed, 1868
1918 - Congress asked to make lynching a federal crime
The National Liberty Congress of Colored Americans asked Congress to make lynching a federal crime.
1822 - James Varick
James Varick consecrated as the first bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church.
1960 - Elijah Muhammad, leader of the Nation of Islam
Elijah Muhammad, leader of the Nation of Islam, called for creation of a Black state in America at a New York meeting.
1936 - Benjamin E. Mays
Benjamin E. Mays, who has been called "the greatest school master of his generation," named president of Morehouse College.
1980 - Thomas "Hit Man" Hearns wins WBA Welterweight Title
Thomas "Hit Man" Hearns wins the WBA Welterweight title. This is one of five weight classes that he has won a boxing title making him the first Black... Continue →
1928 - First Black Daily Newspaper In Modern Times
Founded on this day by William A. Scott, III, the Atlanta Daily World was the first Black daily newspaper in modern times.
1897 - Henry Rucker appointed collector of Internal Revenue for Georgia
Henry Rucker appointed collector of Internal Revenue for Georgia, 1897
1984 - Evelyn Ashford wins a gold medal in the 100-meter
Evelyn Ashford wins a gold medal in the 100-meter race and Edwin Moses wins a gold medal in the 400 meter hurdles in the Summer Olympic Games in Los... Continue →
1965 - President Signs Voting Rights Bill
President Lyndon Johnson signs the Voting Rights Bill which authorized the suspension of literacy tests and the sending of federal examiners into... Continue →
1970 - Courthouse shoot-out
Four persons, including the presiding judge, killed in courthouse shoot-out in San Rafael, Marin County, California. Police charged that activist... Continue →
1885 - William C. Carter patents an umbrella stand
African-American inventor, William C. Carter, patented an umbrella stand (U.S. patent#323,397).
1987 - Beatrice Foods is acquired by Reginald Lewis.
Beatrice Foods is acquired by Reginald Lewis. It is the largest business acquisition ever by an African American.
1936 - Jesse Owens wins four gold medals in the Berlin Olympics
Jesse Owens wins four gold medals in the Berlin Olympics, 1936
1981 - PUSH Boycott
The Coca-Cola Bottling Company agreed to pump $34 million into Black businesses and the Black community, ending a national boycott called by PUSH.
1965 - Thurgood Marshall
U.S. Senate confirmed nomination of Thurgood Marshal as U.S. solicitor general.
1923 - Ophelia DeVore-Mitchell
Ophelia DeVore-Mitchell, founder of two African American modeling schools, born
1953 - President Eisenhower established Government Contract Compliance Committee
President Eisenhower established Government Contract Compliance Committee to supervise anti-discrimination regulations in government contracts.
1968 - Academy Award winning actress Halle Berry was born on this date.
Birthday of Academy Award winning actress Halle Berry.
1966 - Academy Award winning actress Halle Berry was born on this date.
Birthday of Academy Award winning actress Halle Berry.
1938 - Congresswoman Maxine Waters born on this date.
Congresswoman Maxine Waters was born this day. Congresswoman Waters is a Democrat from California.
1863 - President Lincoln signed Emancipation Proclamation
President Lincoln signed Emancipation Proclamation which freed slaves in rebel states with exception of thirteen parishes (including New Orleans) in... Continue →
1958 - Angela Bassett, actress born on this date
Angela Bassett (actress) born in New York, New York August 16, 1958- Angela starred in the following films: The Jacksons: An American Dream... Continue →
1935 - Rafer Johnson, is born
Rafer Johnson was born August 18, 1935, Hillsboro, Texas One of the greatest all-around track athletes in history. On Sept. 6, 1960, he won the... Continue →
1989 - Desmond Tutu Defies Apartheid Law
Defying apartheid laws, Bishop Desmond Tutu walks alone on a South African beach, 1989
1942 - Musician Isaac Hayes born
Composer, songwriter, musician and singer Isaac Hayes was born in Covington, Tennessee on this date.
1936 - Wilt Chamberlain born on this date.
Basketball great Wilton "Wilt the Stilt" Chamberlain born in Philadelphia.
1989 - Huey P. Newton killed
Black Panther Party Co-founder Huey P. Newton was gunned down by a member of the Black Guerilla Family drug ring.
1900 - National Negro Business League organized in Boston
National Negro Business League organized at Boston meeting. Booker T. Washington was elected president. (8/23-24).
1854 - John V. DeGrasse admitted to Massachusetts Medical Society.
John V. DeGrasse, prominent physician, admitted to Massachusetts Medical Society.
1886 - American National Baptist Convention
The first meeting of the American National Baptist Convention was held in St. Louis, Missouri.
1960 - Branford Marsalis, jazz saxophonist and icon, born on this date.
Branford Marsalis, jazz saxophonist and icon, born.
1963 - W.E.B. Du Bois died
W.E.B. Du Bois, scholar, protest leader and a founder of the NAACP, died in Accra, Ghana. W.E.B. DuBois was born in Great Barrington, Massachusetts... Continue →
1963 - March on Washington
More than 250,000 persons participated in March on Washington demonstration, the largest single demonstration in US History at the time, begins, 1963
1958 - Musician, Michael Jackson was born,1958 on this date
Musician, Michael Jackson was born, 1958 on this date.
1983 - Lt. Col. Guion S. Bluford Jr. The first Black US astronaut enters space.
Lt. Col. Guion S. Bluford Jr. The first Black US astronaut enters space.
2002 - Jazz great, vibraphonist, Lionel Hampton dies at age 94.
Jazz great, vibraphonist, Lionel Hampton dies at age 94.
1977 - Death of Ethel Waters
Death of Ethel Waters (80), singer and actress, in Chatsworth, California.
1966 - Professional baseball player, Frank Robinson was named MVP of the American League
Professional baseball player, Frank Robinson was named MVP of the American League, 1966
1884 - John Parker patents "Parker Pulverizer"
U.S. Patent # 304,552 September 2, 1884 "Follower-Screw for Tobacco Presses." Official Gazette of the USPTO v.28, p.883
1990 - Jonathan A. Rodgers becomes president of CBS's television stations division.
Jonathan A. Rodgers becomes president of CBS's television stations division, the highest ranking African American in network television. Rodgers had... Continue →
1960 - Rafer Johnson won the Olympic Decathlon
On Sept. 6, 1960 Rafer Johnson won the Olympic Decathlon, the first for an African American.
1954 - The start of Integration for MD public schools, and Washington DC public school.
The start of Integration for MD public schools, and Washington DC public school, 1954
1957 - Tennis champion, Althea Gibson, wins a US National Tennis Championship
Tennis champion, Althea Gibson, becomes the first Black athlete to win a US national tennis championship, 1957
1968 - Arthur Ashe, the first winner of the U.S.Open
Arthur Ashe became the first winner of the U.S. Open Tennis Championship, defeating Tom Okker of the Netherlands at Forest Hills Stadium, New York.
1976 - Death of Mordecai Johnson
Death of Mordecai Johnson (86), first Black president of Howard University, in Washington.
1959 - "Duke" Ellington get's the Spingarn Medal for his musical achievements.
"Duke" Ellington get's the Spingarn Medal for his musical achievements, 1959
1992 - Dr. Mae Jemison becomes First African-American woman in space.
Dr. Mae Jemison became the first African-American woman in space when she launched from the Kennedy Center to join Spacelab J, a joint U.S.-Japanese... Continue →
1998 - Andre Braugher wins Emmy
On this date in 1998, Andre Braugher wins Emmy for Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his role on Homicide: Life on the Street.
1996 - Tupac Shakur dies
ON this date in 1996, the talented and controversial rapper and actor Tupac Shakur dies in Las Vegas at the age of 25 a few days after sustaining 4... Continue →
1921 - US Cabinet member, Constance Baker Motley was born on this date.
US Cabinet member, Constance Baker Motley was born, 1921
1971 - Inmates seized Attica State Correctional Facility
Inmates seized Attica State Correctional Facility (N.Y.) and held several guards hostage. They issued a list of demands which included coverage by... Continue →
1990 - Keenan Ivory Wayans's In Living Color wins an Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series.
Keenan Ivory Wayans's In Living Color wins an Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series.
1787 - U.S. Constitution approved with three clauses protecting slavery
On this date in 1787, U.S. Constitution approved at Philadelphia convention with three clauses protecting slavery.
1971 - Jada Pinkett Smith, actress, born on this date.
Jada Pinkett Smith, actress, born on this date
1989 - First issue of Emerge magazine goes on sale.
First issue of Emerge magazine goes on sale.
1987 - Alfre Woodard wins an Emmy on this date.
Alfre Woodard wins an Emmy for outstanding guest performance in the dramatic series L.A. Law. It is her second Emmy award, her first having been for... Continue →
1891 - Inventor, FW Leslie, patents the envelope seal, 1891
Inventor, FW Leslie, patents the envelope seal, 1891
1998 - Sprinter Florence Griffith-Joyner (Flo-Jo) dies on this date.
Sprinter Florence Griffith-Joyner, winner of 3 gold and a silver medal at the 1988 Olympics, dies. She was 38.
1979 - Lou Brock becomes MLB all-time steals leader.
Lou Brock stole a record of 935th bases and became the all-time major league record holder.
1965 - Executive Order 11246 issued on this date.
Executive Order 11246 enforces affirmative action for the first time Issued by President Johnson, the executive order requires government contractors... Continue →
1974 - Barbara W Hancock becomes the first Black woman named a White House fellow.
Barbara W Hancock becomes the first Black woman named a White House fellow, 1974
1981 - Tennis sensation Serena Williams born on this date.
Tennis sensation Serena Williams born on this date.
1954 - School Integration Begins
School integration began in Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Md., public schools.
1991 - Jazz Innovator Miles Davis dies
Jazz trumpeter and composer Miles Davis died in Santa Monica, California from complications following a stroke. He was 65.
2001 - Figure skating pioneer Mabel Fairbanks dies on this date
Mabel Fairbanks, 85, the first black women to be inducted into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame died following a long illness. Fairbanks coached... Continue →
1991 - Mike Powell broke the world long jump world record when he jumped 8.95 meters.
Mike Powell broke the world long jump world record when he jumped 8.95 meters at a meet in Tokyo. The previous mark-8.90 meters-was set by Bob Beamon... Continue →
1975 - Virgie Ammons patents fireplace damper actuator
Virgie M. Ammons of Eglon, West Virginia "Inside the fireplace chimney is a device called a "Damper". The damper is opened and closed to allow smoke... Continue →
1966 - Black Panther party founded in Oakland, California.
Black Panther party founded in Oakland, California by Huey Newton and Bobby Seale.
1967 - Thurgood Marshall is sworn in, and becomes the first Black Supreme Court.
Thurgood Marshall is sworn in, and becomes the first Black Supreme Court Justice.
1995 - Ex-football star O.J. Simpson is cleared of murder on this date.
Ex-football star O.J. Simpson is cleared today of murdering his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ronald Goldman.
1971 - Elgin Baylor announces his retirement from the Los Angeles Lakers.
Elgin Baylor announces his retirement from the Los Angeles Lakers. After 14 years in the NBA, Baylor had scored 23,149 points, the third highest in... Continue →
1932 - Congresswoman, Yvonne Burke, born on this date.
Congresswoman, Yvonne Burke, born, 1932.
1993 - Writer, Toni Morrison, awarded the Nobel Prize in literature on this date.
Writer, Toni Morrison, awarded the Nobel Prize in literature, 1993
1969 - Police officers and Blacks exchanged sniper fire
Police officers and Blacks exchanged sniper fire on Chicago's West Side. One youth was killed and nine policemen were injured.
1991 - Latasha Harlins killed on this date.
ON this date in 1991, Korean store owner shoots and kills teenager Latasha Harlins in the back of the head. Despite widespread protests, the store... Continue →
1917 - Jazz pianist Theolonius Monk is born in Rocky Mount North Carolina
Jazz pianist Theolonius Monk is born in Rocky Mount, NC. He was only one of 3 jazz musicians ever featured on the cover of Time magazine.
1899 - Issac R. Johnson patents folding bicycle frame
Inventor Isaac R.Johnson patented his frame of a bicycle which can be separated or folded to store in the trunk of a car or other small places. This... Continue →
1999 - Basketball legend, Wilt Chamberlain, died at the age 63 on this date
Basketball legend, Wilt Chamberlain, died today at age 63.
1932 - Richard ("Dick") Gregory was born on this day.
Richard ("Dick") Gregory was born on this day.
1924 - Comedian Nipsey Russell born on this date.
Nightclub comedian and actor Nipsey Russell born in Buffalo, New York.
1964 - Martin Luther King Jr. wins Nobel Peace Prize on this date.
On this day, Martin Luther King Jr became the youngest man ever to win the Nobel Peace Prize.
1991 - Judge Clarence Thomas is confirmed to U.S. Supreme Court.
Judge Clarence Thomas is confirmed as the 106th associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, its second African American.
1995 - Million Man March
Nation of Islam's Minister Louis Farrakhan called over one million black men together in Washington DC for "A Day of Atonement and Reconciliation".... Continue →
1928 - Author Lerone Bennett, Jr. was born on this day.
Author Lerone Bennett, Jr. was born on this day.
1968 - Bob Beamon breaks World long jump record on this date.
World long jump was beat by Bob Beamon, record at 29 ft, 2.5 in at the Mexico City Olympics
1960 - Martin Luther King Jr arrested in Atlanta.
Martin Luther King Jr. arrested in Atlanta sit-in and ordered to serve four months in the Georgia State Prison for violating a probated traffic... Continue →
1942 - Sixty leading Southern Blacks issue "Durham Manifesto" on this date.
Sixty leading Southern Blacks issued "Durham Manifesto" calling for fundamental changes in race relations after a Durham, North Carolina, meeting.
1986 - George Alcorn patents fabrication of spectrometer
Patent # 4,618,380 George E. Alcorn (Reston, VA) patents method of fabricating an imaging X-ray spectrometer.
1936 - Bobby Seale, Black Panther Co-Founder, born on this date.
Birthday of Bobby Seale in Dallas, TX, co-founder and former chairman of the Black Panther Party.
1947 - NAACP petition on racism presented to United Nations.
NAACP petition on racism, "An Appeal to the World," presented to United Nations at Lake Success.
1972 - Death of Jack Roosevelt ("Jackie") Robinson on this date.
Death of Jack Roosevelt ("Jackie") Robinson (53), first Black in major leagues in twentieth century, in Stamford, Connecticut.
1990 - Evander Holyfield knocks out James "Buster" Douglas in the third round.
Evander Holyfield knocks out James "Buster" Douglas in the third round to become the undisputed world heavyweight champion.
1911 - Gospel singer, Mahalia Jackson, born on this date.
Gospel singer, Mahalia Jackson, born, 1911
1924 - Ruby Dee (Born Ruby Ann Wallace) was born on this day.
Ruby Dee (Born Ruby Ann Wallace) was born on this day.
1914 - Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated, founded.
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, founded at Howard University.
1974 - Muhammad Ali regains world heavyweight boxing title.
Muhammad Ali regains world heavyweight boxing title.
1991 - BET Holdings, Inc. initial public offering on the NYSE on this date.
BET Holdings, Inc. the parent company of Black Entertainment Television sells 4.2 million shares of stock in an initial public offering on the NYSE,... Continue →
1899 - W.F. Burr patents railway switch
W.F. Burr patents Switching device Oct.31,1899 Patent # 636,197
1951 - Jet magazine founded
Jet magazine founded by John H. Johnson, publisher of Ebony magazine.
1898 - C.W. Allen patents table (self-leveling)
C. W. Allen Self-leveling table Nov. 1, 1898 Patent No.613,436
1983 - President Ronald Reagan signs law designating the third Monday in January Martin
President Ronald Reagan signs law designating the third Monday in January Martin Luther King Jr Day, in 1983
1992 - Carol Mosely Braun elected to US Senate
Carol Mosely Braun, a Democrat from Illinois, becomes the 1st African American woman elected to the United States Senate.
1988 - Twenty Million Dollar Gift to Spelman College
Bill and Camille Cosby gave an unprecedented gift of $20 million to Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia.
1969 - Sean "P.Diddy" Combs is born
Birthday of musician Sean "P. Diddy" Combs. Combs had early training working for record companies before setting off on his own with Bad Boy... Continue →
1974 - Shirley Chisholm elected to Congress
Shirley Chisholm, a New York Democrat, is the 1st African American woman elected to Congress.
1973 - Thomas Bradley was elected mayor of Los Angeles
Thomas Bradley was elected mayor of Los Angeles at a time when Blacks represented only 15 percent of the Los Angeles electorate, becoming one of the... Continue →
1991 - Guitarist Jimi Hendrix inducted into Hall of Fame
Rock legend Jimi Hendrix was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
1989 - David Dinkins was elected first Black mayor of New York City
David Dinkins was elected first Black mayor of New York City, 1989
1933 - Actress Ester Rolle born on this date
Actress Ester Rolle was born in Pompano Beach, Florida.
1901 - Guardian Newspaper was founded on this date
The Guardian newspaper was founded by William Monroe Trotter in Boston, Massachusetts.
1957 - Charlie Sifford became the first Black person to win a major professional golf tournament.
On this date in 1957,Charlie Sifford became the first Black person to win a major professional golf tournament, By winning the Long Beach Open
1969 - George R. Carruthers patents Image Converter
The image converter for detecting electromagnetic radiation was patented by George R. Carruthers making him the first Black to do so.
1922 - Sigma Gamma Rho, Sorority Inc. founded
Seven black women in Indianapolis, Indiana founded Sigma Gamma Rho sorority based on a desire to raise the standards of teachers in normal and other... Continue →
1985 - Dwight Gooden wins Cy Young Award
New York Mets pitcher, Dwight Gooden won the Cy Young Award making him the youngest pitcher ever to win this prestigious award.
1950 - Lydia Holmes patents wood toys
Lydia M. Holmes St. Augustine, Florida Patent No. 2,529,692 on November 14, 1950 are the plans for several easily assembled wooden pull toys... Continue →
1990 - On this day, the US Golf Association bans racial & gender discrimination.
On this day, the US Golf Association bans racial & gender discrimination.
1887 - Granville T Woods patents the Synchronous Multiplier Railway Telegraph.
Granville T Woods patents the Synchronous Multiplier Railway Telgrap.
1967 - Actress Lisa Bonet is born
Actress Lisa Bonet was born on November 16, 1967 to a Jewish mother and a Black father. She is probably best known for her role on The Cosby Show,... Continue →
1972 - Andrew Young elected to Congress
On this date in 1972, Barbara Jordan of Houston and Andrew Young of Atlanta, become the first African Americans from the south elected to Congress... Continue →
1911 - Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., founded on the campus of Howard University
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., founded on the campus of Howard University, 1911
1956 - Comedian Sinbad is born
David Adkins "Sinbad" was born on November 18, 1956. As a child, he was the consummate jovial jokester, performing constantly for his three brothers... Continue →
1953 - Roy Campanella named most valuable player of the National Baseball League
Roy Campanella was named most valuable player of the National Baseball League for the second time, 1953
1976 - Gymnast Dominique Dawes born on this date.
Three-time Olympic gymnast Dominique Dawes is born in Siver Spring, Maryland. She will win an Olympic gold medal and two bronze medal. She will also... Continue →
1933 - S.H. Love patents improved vending machine
S.H. Love patents improved vending machine, Patent No.1936515.
1930 - Elijah Muhammad founds the Nation of Islam in Detroit.
Elijah Muhammad founds the Nation of Islam in Detroit, 1930
1980 - 1000 people from twenty five states form the National Black Independent Party.
1000 people from twenty five states gather in Philadelphia and form the National Black Independent Party, 1980
1865 - Black Codes enacted
Mississippi passed the so-called "Black Codes" that barred blacks from jury service, testifying against whites in trials, bearing arms, and attending... Continue →
2001 - Pop singer Melanie Thornton dies
Pop singer Melanie Thornton, 34, was killed in a jet crash in Switzerland. Thornton sang lead with the pop-dance duo LaBouche. Hit songs included "Be... Continue →
1895 - National Negro Medical Association founded
National Negro Medical Association founded, 1895
1976 - Actor Jaleel White is born
Jaleel White was born November 27, 1976 in Pasadena, California. He started acting in commercials for Jack In The Box and other companies at the age... Continue →
1964 -Model/actress Robin Givens was born on this date
Model/actress Robin Givens first gained national prominence as a regular on the TV series Head of the Class. From 1986 through 1991, Robin played... Continue →
1950 - F.M. Jones patents 2-cycle engine
Jones, F. M. Two-Cycle gasoline Engine Nov. 28, 1950 Patent No. 2523273
1908 - Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., politician and civil rights activist was born
Congressman Clayton Powell, Jr., politician and civil rights activist was born in New Haven, Connecticut.
2001 - First Abiocor recipient dies
Robert Tools, the first recipient of the Abiocor artificial heart, dies of multiple organ failure after suffering a stroke several days earlier.
1955 - Rosa Parks refuses to change seat.
On December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks refused to change seats on a Montgomery, Alabama, bus. On December 5, blacks began a boycott of the bus system, which... Continue →
1862 - Compensation For States
President Lincoln, in message to Congress, recommended the use of federal bonds to provide compensation for states that abolished slavery before 1900.
1975 - Ohio State running back Archie Griffin wins second Heisman Trophy.
Ohio State running back Archie Griffin becomes the first person ever to win the Heisman Trophy twice. He will play for the Cincinnati Bengals and be... Continue →
1847 - Frederick Douglass, along with Martin R Delaney, started "The North Start."
Frederick Douglass, along with Martin R Delaney, started "The North Star", an anti-slavery paper, 1847
1969 - Black Panther Leaders Killed
Two Black Panther leaders Fred Hampton and Mark Clark - killed in Chicago police raid. Civil rights leaders said the two men were murdered in their... Continue →
1915 - The Great Migration
The Great Migration began. Approximately two million Southern Blacks moved to Northern industrial centers in the following decades. Between the turn... Continue →
1981 - Marcus Allen, wins the Heisman Trophy
Marcus Allen, tailback for the Univ of Southern California, wins the Heisman Trophy
1849 - Harriet Tubman escaped from slavery in Maryland.
Harriet Tubman escaped from slavery in Maryland. She returned to the South nineteen times and brought out more than three hundred slaves.
1936 - Gibbs v. Board of Education
Gibbs v Board of Education in Montgomery County, Md., was the first of a succession of suits that eliminated wage differentials between Black and... Continue →
1875 - Carter Goodwin Woodson born on this date
Carter G. Woodson was on this day in New Canton, Virginia. He became known as the "Father of Black History." In 1926 Woodson created the first of... Continue →
1950 - Dr.Ralph J.Bunche is the first African American to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize
Dr.Ralph J.Bunche is the first African American African American person to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
1980 - George Rogers is awarded the Heisman Trophy
George Rogers is awarded the Heisman Trophy
1995 - Willie Brown defeats incumbent mayor Frank Jordan to become 1st African American
Willie Brown defeats incumbent Mayor Frank Jordan to become 1st African American Mayor of San Francisco
1981 - Comedian Dewey "Pigmeat" Markham dies
Dewey "Pigmeat" Markham, comedian, popular for his "here comes de judge" routine on television's Laugh-In, dies
1972 - Johnny Rodgers is awarded the Heisman Trophy
Johnny Rodgers is awarded the Heisman Trophy
2001 - Singer Rufus Thomas dies
R&B singer Rufus Thomas known for songs such as "Do the Funky Chicken" and "Walking the Dog" died. He was 84.
1883 - William A Hinton, developer of the Hinton test for diagnosing syphilis, is born
William A Hinton, developer of the Hinton test for diagnosing syphilis, is born
1973 - OJ Simpson sets NFL Record for Rushing Yards
O.J. Simpson set an NFL record of 2003 rushing yards in one season.
1991 - Michael Jordan named Sportsman of the Year
Michael Jordan is named 1991 Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year
1989 - Ernest Dickerson wins the New York Film Critics Circle Award.
Ernest Dickerson wins the New York Film Critics Circle Award for best cinematography for the Spike Lee movie, "Do the Right Thing".
1933 - Actress Cicely Tyson is born in New York, New York.
Actress Cicely Tyson is born in New York, New York.
1983 - Julius Erving (Dr. J.) scores his 25,000th career point.
Julius Erving scores his 25,000th career point, becoming the ninth professional basketball player to achieve this mark.
1988 - African-American term is coined
Jesse Jackson urges the use of the term "African-American"
1905 - James Amos Porter (1905-1970) was born on this date
James Amos Porter wrote the definitive book, Modern Negro Art (1943, 1969, 1992); head, Department of Art, Howard University from 1953-1970; painter... Continue →
1919 - Alice H Parker patents the gas heating furnace
Alice H Parker patents the gas heating furnace.
1867 - First Woman Millionaire
Madame C.J. Walker, born Sarah Breedlove on this day, starts a Black hair-care business in Denver, CO; she alters curling irons that were popularized... Continue →
1992 - First Black Secretary of Agriculture
The position of Secretary of Agriculture was awarded to Alphonso Michael "Mike" Espy, making him the first Black to hold this position.
1875 - Charles Caldwell "Not Guilty"
Charles Caldwell was the first Black in the state of Mississippi to be accused of the murder of a white man and found "not guilty" by an all-white... Continue →
1954 - Actor Denzel Washington Born on this date
Actor Denzel Washington was born on this day in Mount Vernon, NY. Washington will star in such films as "Malcolm X", "Glory", "Much Ado about... Continue →
1907 - Robert Weaver was born on this date
Robert Weaver, born on this day, became the first Black appointed to a presidential cabinet when President Lyndon B. Johnson named him to head the... Continue →
1929 - Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority incorporated on this date
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority incorporated on this date.
1860 - Black Code instituted in Arkansas
On this date in 1860, a law went into effect in Arkansas which prohibited the employment of free blacks on boats and ships navigating the rivers of... Continue →
1991 - Sharon Pratt Dixon sworn in as Mayor of DC
Sharon Pratt Dixon was sworn in as mayor of the District of Columbia. Dixon succeeded Marion Barry who was convicted of cocaine possession in the... Continue →
1954 - Oprah Winfrey Born
Oprah Winfrey was born in Kosciusko, Mississippi. She went on to become a celebrated talk show hostess, actress, movie producer and business woman.
1997 - Bryant Gumble resigns after 15 years as host of NBC's Today Show
Bryant Gumble resigns after 15 years as host of NBC's Today Show
1985 - Congressman William H. Gray is elected chairman
Congressman William H. Gray is elected chairman of the House Budget Committee, the highest congressional post held by an African American.
1777 - Prince Hall petitions Massachusetts legislature
Prince Hall, founder of the first African American Masonic lodge petitioned the Massachusetts legislature for fund to return to Africa. The plan is... Continue →
1943 - George Washington Carver Day
January 5 is George Washington Carver Day in honor of the brilliant agricultural chemist who died on this day in 1943. Nicknamed "the Peanut Man" and... Continue →
1867 - The Peabody Fund is established
The Peabody Fund is established to provide monies for construction, endowments, scholarships, teacher, and industrial education for newly freed... Continue →
1986 - Howard Beach Incident
White teens in Howard Beach chased Michael Griffith, an African-American youth, onto a freeway where he was hit by a motorist. Griffith died from his... Continue →
1989 - Oldest Integration Law Suit Settled
The oldest integration law suit in the US was settled in 1989 when the St. Helena Parish schools were officially integrated. The suit was originally... Continue →
1875 - Black Man Founds the City of Centerville
Virginian George Washington, having traveled cross country in the company of foster parents and settled in Washington Territory a quarter of a... Continue →
1989 - Time, Inc. agrees to sell NYT Cable for $420
Time, Inc. agrees to sell NYT Cable for $420 million, to a group led by J. Bruce Llewellyn, the largest cable TV acquisition by an African American
1914 - Fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma, founded at Howard University
Fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma, founded at Howard University, 1914. Among the founders were Langston Taylor, Leonard F. Morse and C.I. Brown. Special... Continue →
1957 - Southern Christian Leadership Conference founded
The Southern Christian Leadership Conference was founded in New Orleans, Louisiana by five ministers including Martin Luther King, Jr., Ralph... Continue →
1865 - Confederacy ponders to enlist black troops
Robert E. Lee, with his armies at low tide, recommended the employment of blacks in the Confederate forces because it was "not only expedient but... Continue →
1999 - Michael Jordan announces his second retirement from the NBA.
Michael Jordan announce his second retirement from the NBA and the most illustrious career of any professional sports figure to date.
1990 - Lawrence Douglas Wilder assumes title as governor
In Richmond, Virginia former Lt. Governor Lawrence Douglas Wilder took office as the first popularly elected African American governor of an American... Continue →
1929 - Martin Luther King Jr. Born
Martin Luther King Jr. born in Atlanta. He was first given the name of Michael Luther King Jr. The name was formally changed to Martin at a later... Continue →
2003 - Richard Parsons, chief executive, is tapped to be the next chairman of AOL Time
Richard Parsons, chief executive, is tapped to be the next chairman of AOL Time Warner.
1942 - Birthday Muhammad Ali(Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr) was born on this date
Muhammad Ali(Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr), 57 former heavyweight champion boxer. Born Lousivlle, Ky. Jan,17, 1942.
1981 - First Black professional hockey player
Grant Fuhr, goalie for the world champion Edmonton Oilers, is picked in the first round of the National Hockey League draft to become the first Black... Continue →
1969 - UCLA names building after Ralph Bunche
UCLA renames its social science buildings to honor alumnus Ralph Bunche.
2001 - First Black Secretary of State: Colin L. Powell
Colin Luther Powell is sworn in by President George W. Bush as Secretary of State. He is the first black secretary of state in U.S. history.
1999 - 1st Black to argue impeachment
Cheryl Mills, White House Deputy Counsel, becomes the first Black to argue a case before a U.S. Senate impeachment hearing in the case of Pres.... Continue →
1920 - Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. founded
Zeta Phi Beta sorority, with the help of Phi Beta Sigma Robert Samuel Taylor, was founded at Howard University by Arizona Stemmons, Myrtle Faithful,... Continue →
1971 - Twelve Black congressman boycotted Richard Nixon's
Twelve Black congressman boycotted Richard Nixon's State of the Union message because of his "consistent refusal" to respond to the petitions of... Continue →
1981 - Samuel Pierce is named Secretary of HUD
Samuel Pierce is named Secretary of HUD in the Reagan Administration.
1964 - 24th Amendment
The 24th Amendment to the US Constitution is ratified. It abolishes poll tax, which was used as a means of preventing african americans from voting
1962 - Jackie Robinson was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Jackie Robinson was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
1972 - Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm begins her campaign
Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm begins her campaign for President of the U.S.
1948 - Executive Order 9981, to end segregation in US Armed Forces is signed
Executive Order 9981, to end segregation in US Armed Forces is signed by President Harry Truman
1893 - First Black American woman aviator born
First Black American woman aviator, Bessie Coleman was born, 1893
1961 - World renowned opera singer debuts
World renowned opera singer, Leontyne Price, makes her debut at the Metropolitan Opera House
1989 - Darkie Tooth Paste Changed
After 62 years, the Colgate-Palmolive Co. redesigned packaging for its "Darkie" tooth paste made and sold only in Asia. The nickname for Darkie tooth... Continue →
1970 - Arthur Ashe, first Black male to win Wimbledon, is denied entry
Arthur Ashe, first Black male to win Wimbledon, is denied entry to compete on the US Team for the South African Open tennis championships due to... Continue →
1908 - Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, founded at Howard
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, founded at Howard University in 1908, incorporated.
1908 - Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, founded at Cornell
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, founded at Cornell University in 1906, incorporated.
1965 - Leroy "Satchel" Paige, named all-time outstanding player
Leroy "Satchel" Paige, major league baseball player, named all-time outstanding player by National Baseball Congress
1988 - Washington Redskins quarterback Doug Williams Super Bowl MVP
Washington Redskins quarterback Doug Williams, the first African American quarterback to play in a Super Bowl game, is named MVP in Super Bowl XXII.
1990 - Ida Wells Postage Stamp Issued
Ida Wells, a black reformer who compiled records on lynching, is the subject of a United States Postal Service stamp.
1897 - Ice Cream Scooper Invented
Alfred L. Cralle invented the ice cram scooper, patent #576,395
1999 - Cyber-Youth Network Launch
On Wednesday, February 3rd, for the first time in history, America's urban students will have a Web site specifically designed to address their... Continue →
1996 - J.C. Watts becomes the first Black selected to respond to a state of the union
J.C. Watts becomes the first Black selected to respond to a state of the union address.
1990 - Barack Obama becomes president of Harvard Law Review
Columbia University graduate and Harvard University law student Barack Obama became the first African American named president of the Harvard Law... Continue →
1961 - Jail-in movement started in Rock Hill, S.C.
Jail-in movement started in Rock Hill, S.C., when students refused to pay fines and requested jail sentences. Students Nonviolent Coordinating... Continue →
1926 - Negro History week originated by Carter G.Woodson is observed for the first time
Carter G. Woodson creates Negro History week originated by Carter G.Woodson is observed for the first time in 1926.In 1976 it became Black History... Continue →
1986 - Figure Skater Debi Thomas wins Woman's Singles
Figure skater Debi Thomas became the first African American to win the Women's Singles of the U.S. National Figure Skating Championship competition,... Continue →
1952 - Invisible Man wins award
Author Ralph Ellison's novel Invisible Man wins the National Book Award
1967 - The 25th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution went into effect.
1967-The 25th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution went into effect. That amendment provided that in the case of a vice president's become president,... Continue →
1990 - Nelson Mandela is released
Nelson Mandela's greatest pleasure, his most private moment, is watching the sun set with the music of Handel or Tchaikovsky playing. Locked up in... Continue →
1973 - Wm. Desjardin patents corner cleaner attachment
Gertrude E. Downing and William Desjardin Corner Cleaner Attachment, Patent No. 3,715,772 on February 13, 1973
1936 - National Negro Congress organized at Chicago
National Negro Congress organized at Chicago meeting attended by 817 delegates representing more than 500 organizations. Asa Phillip Randolph of the... Continue →
1964 - Louis Armstrong's "Hello Dolly"
Louis Armstrong's "Hello Dolly" recording becomes his first and only number one record.
1970 - Joe Frazier knocks out Jimmy Ellis
Joe Frazier knocked out Jimmy Ellis in the second round of their New York fight and became the world heavyweight boxing champion.
1997 - Virginia retires state song
Virginia House of Delegates votes unanimously to retire the state song, "Carry me back to old Virginia", a tune which glorifies slavery.
1896 - H. Grenon patents razor stropping device
Grenon, H. Razor Stropping Device Feb. 18, 1896 Patent No. 554,867
2002 - Vonetta Flowers
Vonetta Flowers became the first black gold medalist in the history of the Winter Olympic Games. She and partner Jill Brakken won the inaugural... Continue →
1961 - Otis Boykin patents the Electrical Resistor
Otis Boykin, Inventor, patented the Electrical Resistor. U.S. 2,972,726 He is responsible for inventing the electrical device used in all guided... Continue →
1989 - DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince win the first rap Grammy.
DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince win the first rap Grammy for the hit single "Parents Just Don't Understand."
1979 - Frank E. Peterson Jr. named the first Black general in the Marine Corps.
Frank E. Peterson Jr. named the first Black general in the Marine Corps.
1864 - First Black Woman to receive an M.D.
Rebecca Lee Crumpler becomes the first black woman to receive an M.D. degree. She graduated from the New England Female Medical College. Rebecca Lee... Continue →
1991 - First African American woman to die in combat in the Persian Gulf War
Adrienne Mitchell, first African American woman to die in combat in the Persian Gulf War is killed in her military barracks in Dharan, Saudi Arabia
1964 - Cassius Clay Becomes Muhammad Ali
On this day, the Kentucky boxer known to all as Cassius Clay, changed his name to Muhammad Ali as he accepted Islam and rejected Christianity. "I... Continue →
1869 - Fifteenth Amendment guaranteeing the right to vote
Fifteenth Amendment guaranteeing the right to vote sent to the states for ratification.
1960 - Alabama State Board of Education expelled nine
Alabama State Board of Education expelled nine Alabama State students for participating in sit-in demonstrations.
1962 - Wilt The Stilt Chamberlain scores 100 points on this day
On this day in 1962, "Wilt the Stilt" Chamberlain scored 100 points in a single basketball game-a professional record that still stands today. He... Continue →
1968 - Poor People's Campaign
Martin Luther King, Jr. announced plans for Poor People's Campaign in Washington. He said he would lead a massive civil disobedience campaign in the... Continue →
1985 - Mary McLeod Bethune commemorative stamp
The Mary McLeod Bethune commemorative stamp is issued by the U.S. Postal Service as the eighth stamp in its Black Heritage USA series.
1857 - The Dred Scott decision.
On March 6, 1857, the Dred Scott decision of the Supreme Court denied Blacks U.S. citizenship and denied the power of Congress to restrict slavery in... Continue →
1942 - First cadets graduated from Tuskegee flying school
First cadets graduated from flying school at Tuskegee.
1911 - Protest Against Black Firemen
White firemen of the Cincinnati, New Orleans and Texas Pacific Railroad struck to protest the hiring of Black firemen.
1972 - First Black Political Convention
Through the 12th - three thousand delegates and five thousand observers attended the first Black political convention in Gary, Indiana. The NAACP and... Continue →
1956 - Segregation Denounced in public schools
Through 12th Manifesto denouncing Supreme Court ruling on segregation in public schools issued by one hundred Southern senators and representatives.
1825 - Alexander Thomas Augusta
Alexander Thomas Augusta, first African American faculty member of an American medical school, Howard University, is born free
1964 - Malcolm X resigned from the Nation of Islam
Malcolm X resigned from the Nation of Islam.
1957 - John Lee, becomes first black commissioned officer
John Lee, first black commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy is assigned to duty. Dec 1944-Jan 1945 The U.S. Army integrated black volunteers with... Continue →
1933 - Quincy Jones was born
Quincy Jones, Music Impresario, Born March 14, 1933 in Chicago’s South Side. He first fell in love with music when he was in elementary school. He... Continue →
1794 - Eli Whitney patented cotton gin
Eli Whitney patented cotton gin which made cotton king and increased demand for slave labor.
1933 - NAACP began a coordinated attack on segregation
NAACP began a coordinated attack on segregation and discrimination, filing a suit against the University of North Carolina on behalf of Thomas... Continue →
1827 - First Black newspaper, Freedom's Journal, published in New York City
First Black newspaper, Freedom's Journal, published in New York City.
1946 - Jackie Roosevelt Robinson's professional debut
Jackie Roosevelt Robinson made his professional debut as a member of the Montreal Royals in the Daytona Beach ballpark that now bears his name. One... Continue →
George Monroe 1834-1886, Stagecoach Driver
George Monroe was on of 2 Black men who carried mail on the famous Pony express. Monroe had the honor of driving Presidents Grant and Hayes along the... Continue →
1968 - Students Seize college building
Howard University students seized administration building. Students were demanding campus reform and Black-oriented curriculum. Civil rights... Continue →
1619 - First African child born in colonies
Birthday of William Tucker, the first African child born in the colonies. Tucker was baptized in Jamestown, Virginia. There are unconfirmed reports... Continue →
1852 - Uncle Tom's Cabin
Uncle Tom's Cabin, a novel by Harriet Beecher Stowe, published in Boston.
1965 - Selma March begins
The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. leads thousands of people on a 54 mile march from Selma to Montgomery Alabama to call for voting rights for... Continue →
1492 - Alonzo Pietro sets sail with Christopher Columbus
Alonzo Pietro, explorer, sets sail with Christopher Columbus.
1916 - Marcus Garvey arrives in US from Jamaica
Marcus Mosiah Garvey arrives in America from Jamaica.
2002 - Halle Berry wins Oscar
Halle Berry becomes the first black woman to win an Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in the movie "Monster's Ball."
1965 - Selma March completed
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. along with other notable civil rights leaders and thousands of supporters reach Montgomery Alabama after marching 4 days... Continue →
1872 - Thomas J.Martin is awarded a patent for the fire extinguisher.
Thomas J. Martin is awarded a patent for the fire extinguisher.
1966 - Bill Russell named head coach of the Boston Celtics.
Bill Russell named head coach of the Boston Celtics, becoming the first African American to coach an NBA team.
1955 - Football star Earl Campbell born
Football star Earl Campbell was born in Tyler, Texas.
1870 - The 15th Amendment.
On March 30, 1870, the ratification of the 15th Amendment secured voting rights for all male U.S. citizens.
1931 - Cab Calloway recorded "Minnie the Moocher"-the first jazz album to sell a million copies.
Cab Calloway recorded "Minnie the Moocher"-the first jazz album to sell a million copies.
1984 - Marvin Gaye dies
Marvin Gaye dies in his parents Los Angeles home. Marvin attacked his father for verbally abusing his mother. His father responded by shooting his... Continue →
1987 - Engineer Lenell Geter falsely convicted
Engineer Lenell Geter convicted falsely in armed robbery charge. His conviction, which would draw national protest, was finally overturned after... Continue →
1968 - I've Been To The Mountaintop
In 1968, on this date, Martin Luther King Jr. delivers his final address at Bishop Charles J. Mason Temple in Memphis, Tennessee.
1883 - H.H. Reynolds patents Ventilator for rail car
Reynolds, H. H. Window Ventilator for Railroad Cars Apr. 03, 1883 Patent No.275,271
1968 - Martin Luther King Jr's Death
Martin Luther King Jr. assassinated by white sniper in Memphis, Tennessee. Assassination precipitated a national crisis and rioting in more than one... Continue →
1976 - COINTELPRO
FBI documents, released in response to a freedom of information suit, revealed that the government mounted an intensive campaign against civil rights... Continue →
1909 - Matthew Henson
Matthew Henson reached the North Pole. Traveling with the Admiral Peary Expedition, Henson, with his exceptional navigational skills managed to reach... Continue →
1940 - The first U.S. stamp ever to honor an African American is issued
The first U.S. stamp ever to honor an African American is issued bearing the likeness of Booker T. Washington.
1974 - Hank Aaron Breaks Babe Ruth's Record
Henry ("Hank") Aaron broke Babe Ruth's major league baseball record, by hitting his 715th home run in a game at Atlanta stadium.
1866 - Civil Rights Bill Passed
Civil Rights Bill passed over the president's veto. The bill conferred citizenship on Blacks and gave them "the same right, in every State and... Continue →
1990 - Idaho Recognizes MLK Holiday
Idaho became the 47th state to recognize Jan. 15 as Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and as a national holiday.
1968 - Passing of Civil Rights Bill
U.S. Congress pass Civil Rights Bill banning racial discrimination in sale or rental of approximately 80 per cent of the nation's housing.
1989 - Sugar Ray Robinson dies
Sugar Ray Robinson, five-time winner of the world middleweight boxing championship and unbeaten welterweight champion, dies.
1997 - Eldrick Tiger Woods wins the 61st Masters Tournament in Augustus,Georgia.
Eldrick Tiger Woods wins the 61st Masters Tournament in Augustus,Georgia at the age of 21 becoming the youngest person to ever win this tournament.
2002 - Tiger Woods wins Third Masters Golf Tournament
Tiger Woods wins his third Masters Golf title and becomes only the second person ever to win two of the titles in a row.
1959 - African Freedom Day Declared
African Freedom Day is declared at the All-African People's Conference in Accra, Ghana.
1868 - New Constitution Banned Segregation
Louisiana voters approved new constitution and elected state officers, including the first Black lieutenant governor, Oscar J. Dunn, and the first... Continue →
1990 - Playwright August Wilson wins Pulitzer Prize
Playwright August Wilson won his second Pulitzer Prize for drama with the play "The Piano Lesson."
1983 - Alice Walker is awarded the Pulitzer Prize
Alice Walker is awarded the Pulitzer Prize for The Color Purple. Ten days later the novel will also win the American Book Award for fiction.
1960 - Loss of Teaching Jobs
National Education Association study revealed that Blacks had lost thirty thousand teaching jobs since 1954 in seventeen Southern and Border states... Continue →
1971 - Supreme Court Rules on Busing
U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously that busing was a constitutionally acceptable method of integrating public schools.
1986 - Michael Jordan set NBA playoff scoring record
Jordan scores 63 points against Boston Celtics.
1944 - The United Negro College Fund founded.
On April 24, 1950, the United Negro College Fund was founded.
1944 - A mind is a terrible thing to waste.
In 1943, Dr. Frederick D. Patterson, president of Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University), wrote an open letter in the Pittsburgh Courier to the... Continue →
1898 - J.A. Joyce patents ore bucket
Joyce, J. A. Ore Bucket Apr. 26, 1898 Patent No. 603,143
1927 - Coretta Scott is born
Coretta Scott is born in Marion, Ala. She will marry Martin Luther King, Jr. In 1953 and be an integral part of his civil rights activities. After... Continue →
1967 - Muhammad Ali Loses Boxing Championship Recognition
World Boxing Association and New York State Athletic Commission withdrew recognition of Muhammad Ali as world heavyweight boxing champion because of... Continue →
1992 - The Cosby Show Ends
Bill Cosby's successful show of upper middle class black family life ran its final original episode after an eight season run.
1975 - Gen. Daniel James Jr. promoted to four-star general.
Gen. Daniel ("Chappie") James Jr. promoted to rank of four-star general and named commander-in-chief of the North American Air Defense Command.
1945 - R&B singer and songwriter, Donny Hathaway was born on this date
On October 1, 1945, noted R&B singer and songwriter, Donny Hathaway was born in Chicago, Illinois. Before his death, he often teamed up with... Continue →
1875 - White Democrats attacked Republicans in Yazoo City, Mississippi.
On this date in 1875, White Democrats attacked Republicans at Yazoo City, Mississippi. One white and three Blacks were killed.
1867 - Robert T Freeman become first black person to graduate from Harvard Dental School
The first Black person to graduate from Harvard Dental School is Robert T Freeman on this date in 1867.
1975 - 1st Black Florida Supreme Court Justice sworn in on this date
Joseph W. Hatchett sworn in as first Black supreme court justice in the South (Florida) in the twentieth century.
1956 - Demonstrations Against School Integration
Tennessee National Guard sent to Clinton, Tennessee, to quell mobs demonstrating against school integration.
1945 - Blacks In Armed Services
A total of 1,154, 720 Blacks were inducted or drafted into the armed services. Official records listed 7,768 Black commissioned officers on August... Continue →
1864 - Black Troops capture entrenchments
William Tecumseh Sherman occupied Atlanta. In series of battles around Chaffin's Farm in suburb of Richmond, Black troops captured entrenchments at... Continue →
1766 - Abolitionist, inventor, entrepreneur, James Forten was born on this date.
Abolitionist, inventor, entrepreneur, James Forten was born in Philadelphia, PA, 1766 on this date.
1970 - Representatives from 27 African nations meet for the first Congress of African People.
On this date in 1970, Representatives from 27 African nations, the Caribbean nations, four South American countries, Australia, and the U.S. meet in... Continue →
1919 - Lincoln Motion Picture Company releases its first feature length film.
Lincoln Motion Picture Company owned by African Americans Noble Johnson and Clarence Brooks releases its first feature length film, A Man's Duty on... Continue →
1918 - Five soldiers hanged
Five soldiers hanged for alleged participation in Houston riot of 1917.
1895 - Charles Hamilton Houston was born on this day.
NAACP leader, Charles Hamilton Houston was born on this day.
1891 - John Stephens Durham names minister of Haiti
John Stephens Durham, assistant editor of the Philadelphia Evening Bulletin, named minister to Haiti.
1891 - Cotton pickers organized union and strike on this date.
Cotton pickers organized union and staged strike for higher wages in Texas on this date in 1891.
1868 - Lower house of Georgia legislature rule blacks ineligible to hold office
On this date in 1868, the Lower house of Georgia legislature, ruling that Blacks were ineligible to hold office, expelled twenty-eight... Continue →
1865 - Freedman's Bureau ordered to stop seizing abandoned land
U.S. Army commander in South Carolina ordered Freedmen's Bureau to stop seizing abandoned land on this date in 1865.
1838 - Frederick Douglass Escapes slavery on this date.
On this date in 1838, Frederick Douglass, disguised as a sailor escapes from slavery
1783 - Richard Allen, founder of the AME Church, purchases his freedom.
On this date in 1783, Richard Allen, founder of the AME Church, purchases his freedom with his earnings as a self-employed teamster.
1963 - Katherine Dunham becomes the first Black choreographer for the Metropolitan Opera
On this date in 1963, Katherine Dunham (1909-2006). With the "Aida" production in 1963, Katherine Dunham becomes the first Black choreographer for... Continue →
1960 - Comedian and television actor, Damon Wayans was born on this date
On this date in 1960, Comedian and television actor, Damon Wayans was born.
1957 - Black students are banned from a Little Rock high school, by Arkansas Governor
On this date in 1957, Black students are banned from a Little Rock high school, by Arkansas Governor Oval Faubus who calls out the National Guard.
1949 - Paul Robeson Concert Prevented by riot
On this date in 1949, a Riot prevented Paul Robeson concert at Peekskill, New York.
1923 - George Washington Carver of Tuskegee Institute received the Spingarn Medal.
On this date in 1923, George Washington Carver of Tuskegee Institute received the Spingarn Medal, the NAACP's highest award, for distinguished... Continue →
1875 - Clinton Massacre, Clinton, Mississippi
On this date in 1875, 20 to 30 blacks were killed during the Clinton Massacre in Clinton, Mississippi.
1865 - Bowie State College established in Bowie, MD
On this date in 1965, Bowie State College was established in Bowie, MD
1848 - Inventor and engineer, Louis Latimer was born on this date.
On this date in 1848, Inventor and engineer, Louis Latimer was born.
1781 - Black Settlers among founders settlers who find Los Angeles, California.
On this date in 1781, Los Angeles, California, was founded by forty-four settlers of whom at least twenty-six were descendants of Africans.
1960 - Leopold Sedar Senghor elected President of Senegal.
On this date in 1960, Leopold Sedar Senghor, poet, politician, is elected President of Senegal.
1916 - Novelist Frank Yerby was born
On this date in 1916, Novelist Frank Garvin Yerby, winner of the O. Henry short story award winner, born on this date. He was the first African... Continue →
1895 - George Washington Murray was elected to Congress
On this date in 1895, George Washington Murray was elected to Congress by South Carolina.
1859 - Our Nig by Harriet Wilsons was published on this date
Our Nig by Harriet Wilson, the first novel published in the U.S. by an African American woman, is published. It was lost for years until reprinted... Continue →
1846 - John W Cromwell was born on this date
On this date in 1846, Secretary of the American Negro Academy, John W Cromwell was born.
1804 - Absalom Jones ordained a priest on this date
On this date in 1804, Absalom Jones ordained a priest in the Protestant Episcopal Church.
1988 - Lee Roy Young becomes the first African American Texas Ranger
On this date in 1988, Lee Roy Young becomes the first African American Texas Ranger in the police force's 165 year history.
1978 - Rapper Foxy Brown born on this date
On this date in 1978, Rapper, Model, Actress, Inga DeCarlo Fung Marchand, better known by her stage name Foxy Brown was born.
1967 - Walter E. Washington name "unofficial" mayor of Washington, D.C.
On this date in 1967, President Lyndon B. Johnson named Walter E. Washington commissioner and "unofficial" mayor of Washington, D.C.
1930 - Leander Jay Shaw, Jr., was born on this date
On this date in 1930, Leander Jay Shaw, Jr., justice of the Florida State Supreme Court (1983), first African American chief justice (1990) in... Continue →
1905 - Atlanta Life Insurance Company established
On this date in 1905, Atlanta Life Insurance Company established by A.F. Herndon.
1892 - George "Little Chocolate" Dixon defeats Jack Skelly
On this date in 1892, George "Little Chocolate" Dixon defeats Jack Skelly in New Orleans to win the world featherweight title. While some African... Continue →
1865 - Thaddeus Stevens urges confiscation of estates of Confederate leaders
On this date in 1865, Thaddeus Stevens, powerful U.S. congressman, urged confiscation of estates of Confederate leaders and the distribution of land... Continue →
1848 - National Black Convention in Cleveland
On this date in 1848, the National Black Convention met in Cleveland with some seventy delegates. Frederick Douglass was elected president of the... Continue →
1865 - Thaddeus Stevens urged confiscation of estates of Confederate leaders
On this date in 1865, Thaddeus Stevens, a powerful U.S. congressman, urged confiscation of estates of Confederate leaders and the distribution of... Continue →
1848 - National Black Convention in Cleveland
On this date in 1848, the National Black Convention met in Cleveland with some seventy delegates. Frederick Douglass was elected president of the... Continue →
1826 - First Black of graduate college in America
On this date in 1826, John Brown Russwurm became the first Black to graduate college at Bowdoin College. This was 14 days before Edward Jones... Continue →
1781 - African American Jordan Freeman dies after killing Major William Montgomery
On this date in 1871, African American Jordan Freeman dies after killing Major William Montgomery in the Battle of Groton Heights
1968 - Independence Day - The Kingdom of Swaziland
On this date in 1968, the Kingdom of Swaziland was founded.
1957 - Ghana breaks colonial mold.
On this day in 1957, Ghana becomes a free self-governing nation. This country will be the first of the British Commonwealth of Nations to be... Continue →
1930 - Theodore Walter "Sonny" Rollins was born on this date
O this date in 1930,tenor saxophonist Theodore Walter "Sonny" Rollins, a powerful force in American jazz, was born.
1859 - Co-organizer of North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company, John Merrick was born
On this date in 1859, Co-organizer of North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company, John Merrick was born.
1800 - Zion AME Church dedicated in New York City
On this date in 1800, Zion AME Church dedicated in New York City.
1981 - NAACP Executive Director Roy Wilkins passes away
On this date in 1981, Roy Wilkins (80), longtime executive director of the NAACP, in New York passes away.
1965 - Actress Dorothy Danridge's passes away
On this date in 1965, Actress Dorothy Danridge (41) dies in Hollywood.
1925 - Doctor Ossian Sweet arrested
On this date in 1925, prominent Detroit Doctor Ossian Sweet, arrested on murder charges after shots were fired into a mob in front of the Sweet home... Continue →
1875 - Protection for Black Voters
On this date in 1875, Mississippi Governor Ames requested federal troops to protect Black voters. Attorney General Edward Pierrepont refused the... Continue →
1981 - Vernon E. Jordan resigns as president of the National Urban League.
On this date in 1981, Vernon E. Jordan resigned as president of the National Urban League and announced plans to join a Washington law firm. He was... Continue →
1979 - Robert Guillaume wins an Emmy for best actor in a comedy series for Soap
On this date in 1979, Robert Guillaume wins an Emmy for best actor in a comedy series for Soap
1962 - Two Churches Burned
On this date in 1962, Two churches burned near Sasser, Georgia. Black leaders asked the president to stop the "Nazi-like reign of terror in southwest... Continue →
1957 - Nashville School Destroyed By Blast
On this date in 1957, Nashville's new Hattie Cotton Elementary School with enrollment of 1 Black and 388 whites virtually destroyed by dynamite... Continue →
1957 - Integration Attempt Causes An Uproar
On this date in 1957, Rev. F.L. Shuttlesworth mobbed when he attempted to enroll his daughters in "white" Birmingham school.
1957 - The first civil rights bill to pass Congress since reconstruction was passed
On this date in 1957, the first civil rights bill to pass Congress since reconstruction was passed by President Eisenhower, 1957
1946 - Singer and musician, Billy Preston was born
On this date in 1946, Singer and musician, Billy Preston was born.
1934 - Poet Sonia Sanchez was born
On this date in 1934, Poet Sonia Sanchez was born Wilsonia Benita Driver in Birmingham, Alabama.
1915 - Carter G Woodson, finds the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History.
On this date in 1915, the father of Black history, Carter G Woodson, founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) . The... Continue →
1908 - writer, Richard Wright, author of "Native Son" and "Black Boy" was born, 1908
On this date in 1908, Writer Richard Wright, author of "Native Son" and "Black Boy" was born.
1884 - John R Lynch Presides over Republican National Convention
On this date in 1884, John R Lynch Presides over Republican National Convention
1817 - Death of Captain Paul Cuffe
On this date in 1817, Captain Paul Cuffe (58), entrepreneur and activist, dies in Westport, Massachusetts.
1823 - Alexander Lucius Twilight
On this date in 1823, Alexander Lucius Twilight, born free in Vermont, was the first African-American person known to have earned a bachelor's degree... Continue →
1816 - Kentucky abolitionist and founder of Berea College, John Gregg Fee was born
On this date in 1816, Kentucky abolitionist and founder of Berea College, John Gregg Fee was born.
1806 - Abolitionist, Sarah Mapps Douglass was born
On this date in 1806, Abolitionist Sarah Mapps Douglass was born
1739 - Slave rebellion, Stono, South Carolina
Early in the Morning on this date in 1739, a Slave rebellion in Stono, South Carolina, was led by a rebel named Jemmy. Early on the morning of... Continue →
1973 - A commemorative stamp is issued by the U.S. Postal Service to honor Henry Ossawa
On this day in 1973, a commemorative stamp was issued by the U.S. Postal Service to honor Henry Ossawa Tanner, the first African American artist... Continue →
1965 - Father Divine dies
on this day in 1965, Father Divine, born George Baker, dies in Philadelphia.
1962 - James H. Meredith admitted to the University of Mississippi
On this date in 1962, Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black vacated an order of a lower court, ruling that the University of Mississippi had to admit... Continue →
1961 - Jomo Kenyatta returns to Kenya from exile to lead his country
On this date in 1961, Jomo Kenyatta returns to Kenya from exile to lead his country.
1930 - Charles E. Mitchell named minister to Liberia
on this date in 1930, Charles E. Mitchell, certified public accountant and banker from West Virginia, named minister to Liberia.
1913 - George W. Buckner named minister to Liberia
On this date in 1913, George W. Buckner, a physician from Indiana, named minister to Liberia.
1916 - Cleveland Call founded
On this date in 1916, Cleveland Call established by Cleveland inventor Garrett Morgan and later merged with the Cleveland Post in 1929 to become the... Continue →
1847 - John Roy Lynch was born.
On this date in 1847, John Roy Lynch, served in the 43rd, 44th, and 47th Congresses representing the State of Mississippi as a Republican, born. He... Continue →
1977 - Quincy Jones wins an Emmy for musical composition for the miniseries Roots.
On this date in 1977, Quincy Jones wins an Emmy for musical composition for the miniseries Roots. It is one of nine Emmy's for the series.
1974 - Haile Selassie I is deposed from the Ethiopian throne.
On this date in 1974, Haile Selassie I is deposed from the Ethiopian throne.
1962 - Voters Wounded trying To Register
ON this date in 1962, Two youths involved in a voter registration drive in Mississippi were wounded by shotgun blasts fired through the window of a... Continue →
1953 - J.H. Jackson elected president of the National Baptist Convention.
On this date in 1953, J.H. Jackson, pastor of Olivet Baptist Church, Chicago, elected president of the National Baptist Convention at Miami meeting.
1943 - Singer, Dancer, Actress Lola Falana born
On this date in 1943, singer,dancer, actress Lola Falana was born.
1923 - Charles Evers born
On this date in 1923, Charles Evers, brother of Medgar, Mayor of Fayette Miss. (elected 1969), was born
1885 - Moses A. Hopkins named minister of Liberia
On this date in 1885, Moses A. Hopkins, minister and educator, named minister to Liberia.
1851 - Blacks route a band of slave catchers
On this date in 1851, Blacks routed a band of slave catchers attempting on re-enslaving escaped slaves in Christiana, Pennsylvania. One white was... Continue →
1740 - An issue of the Pennsylvania Gazette reports on a Negro named Simon who reported
On this date in 1740, an issue of the Pennsylvania Gazette reports of a Negro named Simon who reportedly can "bleed and draw teeth." It is the first... Continue →
1986 - The National Council of Negro Women sponsors its first Black Family Reunion.
On this date in 1986, the National Council of Negro Women sponsors its first Black Family Reunion at the National Mall in Washington.
1974 - Eugene A. Marino, SSJ, is consecrated at the first African American auxiliary bishop
On this date in 1974, Eugene A. Marino, SSJ, is consecrated at the first African American auxiliary bishop in the U.S. He was assigned to Washington,... Continue →
1974 - Haile Selassie deposed by military leaders
On this date in 1974, Haile Selassie deposed by military leaders after fifty-eight years as the ruling monarch of Ethiopia.
1956 - Black Students enter Clay, KY, elementary school
On this date in 1956, Black students entered Clay, Ky., elementary school under National Guard protection. They were barred from the school on... Continue →
1952 - Floyd Patterson first professional fight takes place.
On this date in 1952, Floyd Patterson's first professional fight took place. He was the first to hold the world heavyweight championship twice.
1947 - Jackie Robinson, named National League Rookie of the Year.
On this date in 1947, First Black baseball player in the major leagues, Jackie Robinson, named National League Rookie of the Year.
1935 - Sculptor Richard H. Hunt (Master of Metals) was born
On this date in 1935, Sculptor Richard H. Hunt who soon became known as one of the "most gifted and assured artist working in the direct open form... Continue →
1913 - Gold Medalist James Cleveland Owens was born
On this date in 1913, James Cleveland Owens, better known as Jesse Owens, winner of four gold medals at the Summer Olympic Games in Berlin, was born
1981 - Isabel Sanford wins an Emmy award as best comedic actress
On this date in 1981, Isabel Sanford wins an Emmy award as best comedic actress for The Jeffersons
1972 - Johnny Ford and A.J.Cooper elected Mayors
On this date in 1972, Two Blacks, Johnny Ford of Tuskegee and A.J. Cooper of Prichard elected mayors in Alabama.
1971 - Troopers and Officers Killed in storming of Attica
On this date in 1971, Fifteen hundred troopers and officers stormed the Attica Prison. Thirty-two convicts and ten guards were killed. Investigation... Continue →
1962 - Federal State Crisis
On this date in 1962, Mississippi Governor Ross R. Barnett defied the federal government in impassioned speech on statewide radio-television hookup,... Continue →
1962 - Pres. Kennedy Supports Blacks
On this date in 1962, President Kennedy denounced the burning of churches in Georgia and supported voter registration drive in the South.
1948 - Nell Carter was born
On this date in 1948, Tony Award winning Broadway singer Nell Carter was born.
1886 - Philosopher and first Black Rhodes Scholar, Alain L. Locke was born
On this date in 1886, Philosopher and first Black Rhodes Scholar, Alain L. Locke was born.
1881 - Louis Howard Latimer patents his electric lamp with a carbon filament.
On this date in 1881, Louis Howard Latimer patents his electric lamp with a carbon filament.
1867 - Gen. E.R.S. Canby orders court to impanel black jurors
On this date in 1867, Gen. E.R.S. Canby ordered South Carolina courts to impanel Blacks jurors.
1663 - First Slave Conspiracy
On this date in 1663, the First serious slave conspiracy in colonial America. Plot of white servants and slaves in Gloucester County, Va., was... Continue →
1967 - Track star Michael Johnson was born.
On this date in 1967, Track star Michael Johnson was born today
1940 - Blacks were allowed to enter all branches of the US Military Service
On this date in 1940, Blacks were allowed to enter all branches of the US Military Service, when President Franklin D Roosevelt signs Selective... Continue →
1874 - Rebellion Collapsed/People Killed in the Struggles
On this date in 1874, White Democrats seized statehouse in Louisiana coup d'etat. President Grant ordered the revolutionaries to disperse, and the... Continue →
1987 - Boxer Thomas "Hit Man" Hearns wins title in five different weight classes
On this date in 1987, the famous boxer Thomas "Hit Man" Hearns becomes the first Black man to win boxing titles in five different weight classes.
1978 - Muhammad Ali wins heavyweight title for third time
On this date in 1978, Muhammad Ali, was the first black prizefight to gross more than a five-million dollars gate in the bout at the Louisiana... Continue →
1969 - Large-scale racial disorders reported in Hartford, Connecticut
On this date in 1969, Large-scale racial disorders were reported in Hartford, Connecticut. Five hundred were arrested and scores were injured.
1964 - First Black Elected Officials in Alabama in twentieth century.
On this date in 1964, Rev. K.L. Buford and Dr. Stanley Smith were elected to Tuskegee City Council and became first Black elected officials in... Continue →
1963 - Church Bombing in Birmingham
On this date in 1963, Four Black girls killed in bombing of Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham.
1945 - Jessye Norman: Opera singer is born
ON this date in 1945, Jessye Norman, one the worlds most respected opera singers was born. Jessye was known for her stage presence, vocal range, and... Continue →
1943 - Actor and activist, Paul Robeson, portrays Othello for the 296th time at New York
ON this date in 1943, Actor and activist, Paul Robeson, portrays Othello for the 296th time at New York City's Shubert Theater.
1923 - KKK activities effects Oklahoma
On this date in 1923, Governor said Oklahoma was in a "state of Virtual rebellion and insurrection" because of KKK activities. Martial Law was... Continue →
1898 - National Afro-American Council was founded
On this date in 1898, the National Afro-American Council was founded in Rochester, New York. Bishop Alexander Walters of the AME Zion Church was... Continue →
1895 - Chiropractic is launched
On this date in 1895, D.D.Palmer the founder of Chiropractic adjusted Harvey Lillard an African America in Davenport Iowa. Mr. Lilllard was deaf and... Continue →
1876 - White terrorists attacked Republicans
On this date in 1876, White terrorists attacked Republicans in Ellenton, South Carolina. Two whites and thirty-nine Blacks were killed.
1852 - Inventor Jan E. Matzeliger born
On this date in 1852, Inventor Jan E. Matzeliger was born in Dutch Guyana and immigrated to the US in 1878. He patented a shoe lasting machine in... Continue →
1830 - Philadelphia held the First National Negro Convention.
On this date in 1830, Philadelphia held the First National Negro Convention.
1791 - Early Sermon for Abolition
On this date in 1791, Jonathan Edwards Jr. (1745-1801) preached a strong anti-slavery sermon before "the Connecticut Society for the Promotion of... Continue →
1989 - Debbye Turner is crowned Miss America.
On this dated in 1989, Debbye Turner is crowned Miss America. She is the third African American to win the crown since the inception of the pageant... Continue →
1971 - Six Klansmen arrested in connection with bombing
On this date in 1971, Six Klansmen arrested in connection with the bombing of ten school buses in Pontiac, Michigan.
1937 - Negro Baseball League player, Orlando Cepeda was born.
ON this date in 1937, Negro Baseball League player, Orlando Cepeda was born.
1933 - Emperor Jones, starring Paul Robeson as Brutus Jones is released by United Artists
On this dated in 1933, Emperor Jones, starring Paul Robeson as Brutus Jones is released by United Artists. It is Robeson's first starring movie role... Continue →
1928 - Storm of 28
ON this date in 1928, more than 3000 African Americans died when Lake Okeechobee flooded Western Palm Beach County, Florida, with a 10-15 foot tidal... Continue →
1925 - Blues Singer Ripley B.B. King born
On this date in 1925, blues singer Ripley "B.B." King was born in Itta Benna, Mississipi.
1904 - Negro Baseball League player, William Hendrick "Bill" Foster was born.
ON this date in 1904, Negro Baseball League player, William Hendrick "Bill" Foster was born. was an American left-handed pitcher in baseball's Negro... Continue →
1889 - Associate Negro Press founder Claude A. Barnett was born
On this dated in 1889, in Sanford, Florida of Claude A. Barnett founder of the Associated Negro Press, the first and only Black news wire services in... Continue →
1848 - The French abolish slavery in all there territories.
On this dated in 1848, the French abolish slavery in all there territories.
1991 - Ground is broken for the Harold Washington wing of the DuSable Museum in Chicago
On this date in 1991, ground is broken for the Harold Washington wing of the DuSable Museum in Chicago, Illinois. Founded by artist and poet Margaret... Continue →
1983 - Vanessa Williams crowned Miss America
On this date in 1983, Vanessa Williams crowned Miss America. Vanessa Williams was the 1st African American Miss America to be crowned.
1973 - Illinois becomes the first state to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday
On this date in 1973,Illinois becomes the first state to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday as a holiday.
1970 - The Flip Wilson Show premieres on NBC.
On this date in 1970, The Flip Wilson Show premieres on NBC. It is the first prime time variety show starring an African American male since the Nat... Continue →
1968 - Julia premieres on NBC with Diahann Carroll in the title role.
ON this date in 1968, Julia premieres on NBC with Diahann Carroll in the title role. It is the first modern television show to star an African... Continue →
1962 - Fourth Black Church Burned
On this date in 1962, Fourth Black church burned near Dawson, Georgia. Three white men later admitted burning the church. They were sentenced to... Continue →
1861 - First day of school for freedmen
On this date in 1861, it was the First day of school for freedmen founded at Fortress Monroe, Va., with a Black teacher, Mary Peake.
1990 - Atlanta, Ga., is selected as the site of the XXV Olympiad Summer Games.
On this date in 1990, Atlanta, Ga., led by Mayor Maynard H. Jackson, is selected as the site of the XXV Olympiad Summer Games.
1980 - Cosmonaut Arnold Tamayo, becomes the first black sent on a mission in space
On this date in 1980, Cosmonaut Arnold Tamayo, a Cuban, becomes the first black sent on a mission in space. Arnold Tamayo, along with Soviet... Continue →
1948 - Ralph J. Bunche confirmed as acting UN mediator in Palestine
On this dated in 1948, Ralph J. Bunche confirmed by United Nations Security Council as acting UN mediator in Palestine.
1945 - White Students Support For Segregation
On this date in 1945, One thousand white students walked out of three, Gary, Ind. schools to protest integration. There were similar disturbances in... Continue →
1919 - Fritz Pollard becomes the first black to play Professional football
On this date in 1919, Fritz Pollard becomes the first black to play Professional football for a major team, the Akron Indians. Pollard was also the... Continue →
1895 - Atlanta Exposition Address
On this date in 1895, Booker T. Washington delivers the Atlanta Exposition Address at a business convention. Due to his view points, many dubbed his... Continue →
1850 - As part of the Compromise of 1850, Congress passed the Fugitive Slave Law
On this date in 1850, as part of the Compromise of 1850, Congress passed the Fugitive Slave Law.
1989 - Gordon Parks' film The Learning Tree is registered in the National Film Registry
On this date in 1989, Gordon Parks' film The Learning Tree is registered in the National Film Registry of the Library of Congress. It joins other... Continue →
1981 - Protest Against Reagan Administration
On this date in 1981, more than 300,000 demonstrators from labor and civil rights organizations protested the social policies of the Reagan... Continue →
1956 - First International Conference
On this date in 1956, theFirst international conference of Black writes and artists met at the Sorbonne in Paris.
1941 - Otis Redding, singer born
On this date in 1941, Singer Otis Redding born in Dawson, GA
1931 - Singer Brook Benton born
On this date in 1931, Brook Benton, holder of 16 gold records including "A Rainy Night in Georgia", was born
1881 - Booker T. Washington opens Tuskegee Institute in Alabama
On this date in 1881, Booker T. Washington opens Tuskegee Institute in Alabama
1868 - White Democrats attacked demonstrators
On this date in 1868, White Democrats attacked demonstrators, who were marching from Albany to Camilla, Ga., and killed nine Blacks. Several whites... Continue →
1984 - The Cosby Show premieres on NBC.
On this date in 1984, The Cosby Show premieres on NBC.
1962 - James H. Meredith Denied Admission to University
On this date in 1962, Governor Barnett personally denied James H. Meredith admission to the University of Mississippi.
1958 - Martin Luther King Jr. stabbed in chest
On this date in 1958, Martin Luther King Jr. stabbed in chest by a deranged Black woman while he was autographing books in a Harlem department store.... Continue →
1885 - Pianist Ferdinand "Jelly Roll" Morton was born
On this date in 1885, Pianist Ferdinand "Jelly Roll" Morton was born in New Orleans, Louisiana.
1847 - William A. Leidesdorf elected to San Francisco town council
On this date in 1847, William A. Leidesdorf elected to San Francisco town council receiving the third highest vote. Leidesdorf, who was one of the... Continue →
1830 - First Negro Convention of Free Men agree to start there boycott
On this date in 1830, the First Negro Convention of Free Men agreed to start their boycott on slave-produced goods.
1830 - First National Black Convention Meets
On this date in 1830, the First National Black convention met at Philadelphia's Bethel AME church and elected Richard Allen president. Thirty-eight... Continue →
1664 - Anti-Amalgamation Law passed in Maryland
On this date in 1664, Maryland enacted first anti-amalgamation law to prevent widespread intermarriage of English women and Black men. Other colonies... Continue →
1989 - General Colin Powell named Chairman of the Joint Chiefs
On this date in 1989, General Colin Powell named Chairman of the joint Chiefs of Staff.
1966 - National Guard mobilized to stop rioting in Dayton, Ohio.
On this date in 1966, National Guard mobilized to stop rioting in Dayton, Ohio.
1961 - Sit-in movement effects twenty states
On this date in 1961, Southern Regional Council announced that Sit-in movement had effected twenty states and more than one hundred cities in... Continue →
1947 - Archbishop Joseph E. Ritter
On this date in 1947, Archbishop Joseph E. Ritter said he would excommunicate St. Louis Catholics who continued to protest integration of parochial... Continue →
1872 - 1st Black Student At Annapolis Naval Academy
On this date in 1872, John Henry Conyers of South Carolina became the first Black student at Annapolis Naval Academy. He later resigned.
1832 - Maria Stewart addresses the New England Anti-Slavery Society
On this date in 1832, Maria W. Stewart (1803-1879) addresses the New England Anti-Slavery Society meeting in Boston's Franklin Hall on the evils of... Continue →
1814 - Blacks fight in the battles of 1812
On this date in 1814, Blacks fight in the land and water battles of the War of 1812. A large number of Black sailors fought with Matthew Perry and... Continue →
1814 - Andrew Jackson issues Proclamation
On this date in 1814, Andrew Jackson issued Proclamation at Mobile, Ala., urging free Blacks "to rally around the standard of the eagle" in the War... Continue →
1961 - Interstate Commerce Commission issues regulations prohibiting segregation
On this date in 1961, Interstate Commerce Commission issued regulation prohibiting segregation on interstate buses and in terminal facilities.
1954 - Actress Shari Belafonte born
On this date in 1954, actress Shari Belafonte, daughter of singer Harry Belafonte, born in New York City.
1905 - Race Riot in Atlanta
On this date in 1905, a race riot in Atlanta occurred and ten Blacks and two whites killed. Martial law proclaimed.
1863 - Mary Church Terrell was born
On this dated in 1863, the First Black person to Serve on the DC board of education, Mary Church Terrell was born.
1862 - President Lincoln's Promise
On this date in 1862, President Lincoln, in preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, warned South that he would free slaves in all states in rebellion... Continue →
1961 - Thurgood Marshall named to U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals
On this date in 1951, President Kennedy named Thurgood Marshall to U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
1954 - Playwright George C. Wolfe was born
On this date in 1954, Playwright George C. Wolfe was born
1930 - Singer Ray Charles was born
On this date in 1930, Blind composer, singer and musician Ray Charles Robinson born in Albany, Georgia.
1926 - Jazz musician, John Coltrane was born.
ON this date in 1926, Innovative and famed jazz musician, John Coltrane was born.
1884 - Judy W. Reed patents dough kneader and roller
On this dated in 1884, Judy W. Reed patents dough kneader and roller, Patent No. 305,474
1986 - Japanese Prime Minister Insults Blacks
On this date in 1986, Japanese Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone said the United States "intelligence levels are lower than those in Japan because of... Continue →
1977 - John T. Walker installed as the first Black bishop of the Episcopal diocese of Washington
On this date in 1977, John T. Walker installed as the first Black bishop of the Episcopal diocese of Washington.
1962 -University of Mississippi ordered to admit James Meredith's
On this date in 1962, U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ordered Board of Higher Education of Mississippi to admit Meredith to the university or be held... Continue →
1957 - President Eisenhower ordered federal troops
On this date in 1957, President Eisenhower ordered federal troops to Little Rock, Ark., to prevent interference with school integration at Central... Continue →
1957 - Black Students Escorted To School
On this date in 1957, Soldiers of 101st Airborne Division escorted nine Black students to Central High school.
1954 - Designer Patrick Kelly was born
On this date in 1954, Patrick Kelly, first and only American fashion designer admitted to an exclusive organization of French fashion designers, was... Continue →
1953 - Take a Giant Step opens on Broadway
On this dated in 1953, Take a Giant Step, drama by playwright Louis Peterson, opened on Broadway.
1935 - Joe Louis draws million dollar gate
On this date in 1935, World Heavyweight Champion, Joe Louis, becomes the first Black boxer to draw a million dollar gate. 88,000 fans paid out... Continue →
1931 - Cardiss Robertson Collins was born
On this dated in 1931, Representative Cardiss Robertson Collins, elected the U.S. House of Representatives was born
1894 - Sociologist and author Edward Franklin Frazier was born
On this date in 1894, Sociologist and author Edward Franklin Frazier was born on this day. During his lofe time Frazier published 8 books, 89... Continue →
1883 - National Black convention met in Louisville, Kentucky
On this date in 1883, National Black convention met in Louisville, Kentucky.
1825 - Author Frances Watkins Harper was born
On this date in 1825, Author Frances Ellen Watkins Harper was born. In 1859, she became the first black woman to publish a short story. Her only... Continue →
1991 - Blood of Jesus added to the Library of Congress's National Film Registry
On this date in 1991, Spencer Williams's 1942 movie Blood of Jesus is among the third group of 25 films added to the Library of Congress's National... Continue →
1962 - Black Church Destroyed
ON thi sdate in 1962, A Black church was destroyed by fire in Macon, Georgia. This was the eighth church burned in Georgia since August 15.
1962 - Meredith again denied admission to University
On this date in 1962, Governor Barnett again defied court orders and personally denied Meredith admission to the University.
1962 - Sonny Liston knocks out Floyd Patterson
On this date in 1962, Sonny Liston knocks out Floyd Patterson in the first round to become the world heavyweight boxing champion
1886 - Peter "The Black Prince" Jackson wins Australian heavyweight title
ON this date in 1886, Peter "The Black Prince" Jackson wins the Australian heavyweight title, becoming the very first Black man to win a national... Continue →
1861 - The Secretary of the Navy authorizes the enlistment of African Americans
On this date in 1861, The Secretary of the Navy authorizes the enlistment of African Americans in the Union Navy. The enlistees could achieve no rank... Continue →
1968 - The Studio Museum of Harlem opens in NYC
On this date in 1968, The Studio Museum of Harlem opens in NYC
1962 - Mississippi Barred Meredith For The Third Time
On this date in 1962, Mississippi barred Meredith for the third time. Lt. Gov. Paul Johnson and a blockade of state patrolmen turned back Meredith... Continue →
1962 - A. Leon Higginbotham, Jr., becomes the first African American member of the FTC
On this date in 1962, A. Leon Higginbotham, Jr., becomes the first African American member of the Federal Trade Commission. He was also appointed a... Continue →
1957 - Riot Duty ordered
On this date in 1957, an order alerting regular army units for possible riot duty in other Southern cities canceled by Army Secretary Wilbur M.... Continue →
1937 - Singer Bessie Smith Died
On this date in 1937, Singer Bessie Smith dies of injuries sustained in an automobile accident near Clarksdale, Mississippi.
1929 - Biochemist Ida Stephens Owens was born
On this dated in 1929, Biochemist Ida Stephens Owens was born. Owens received a PhD. in Biology-Physiology from Duke University in 1967. At the... Continue →
1907 - The People's Savings Bank is incorporated in Philadelphia
On this dated in 1907, The People's Savings Bank is incorporated in Philadelphia by former African American congressman George H. White of North... Continue →
1899 - Musician William Levi Dawson was born
On this date in 1899, William Levi Dawson, composer and arranger of music, was born in Anniston, Alabama. Among his songs are, "I Couldn't Hear... Continue →
1867 - Business and civic leader, Maggie L Walker was born
On this dated in 1867, Business and civic leader, Maggie L Walker was born.
1967 - Washington D.C.'s Anacostia Museum opens
On this date in 1967, Washington D.C.'s Anacostia Museum dedicated to informing the community of contributions by African Americans to U.S.... Continue →
1966 - National Guard mobilized in SanFrancisco
On this date in 1966, the National Guard was mobilizing in San Francisco.
1950 - Ezzard Charles defeated Joe Louis
On this date in 1950, Ezzard Charles defeated Joe Louis in heavyweight championship fight in New York City.
1950 - Gwendolyn Brooks awarded Pulitzer Prize
On this date in 1950, Gwendolyn Brooks awarded Pulitzer Prize (May 1) for her book of poetry, Annie Allen. She was the first Black cited by the... Continue →
1950 - Ralph J. Bunche awarded Nobel Peace Prize.
On this date in 1950, Ralph J. Bunche, director of the UN Trusteeship division and former professor of political science at Howard University,... Continue →
1950 - Charles H. Houston
On this date in 1950, Charles H. Houston awarded the Spingarn Medal posthumously for his pioneering work in developing the NAACP legal campaign.
1940 - Black Leaders Protested Discrimination
On this date in 1940, Black leaders protested discrimination in the armed forces and war industries at a White House meeting with President Roosevelt.
1915 - Xavier University, opens in New Orleans
On this date in 1915, Xavier University, the first Black Catholic college in the US, opens in New Orleans.
1912 - The first blues song, WC Handy publishes Memphis Blues.
On this date in 1912, The first blues song, William Christopher Handy publishes Memphis Blues, 1912
1877 - John Mercer Langston named Minister of Haiti
On this date in 1877, John Mercer Langston named minister of Haiti.
1876 - Edward Mitchell Bannister wins a bronze medal
ON this date in 1876, Edward Mitchell Bannister wins a bronze medal for his painting Under the Oaks at the American Centennial Exposition, in... Continue →
1875 - Branch Normal College opens in Pine Bluff, Arkansas.
On this date in 1875, Branch Normal College opens in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Branch Normal College was a segregated unit of the state university, the... Continue →
1867 - Louisiana Voters Endorsed Constitutional convention.
On this date in 1867, Louisiana voters endorsed constitutional convention and elected delegates in first election under Reconstruction acts. The vote... Continue →
1862 - First Black Army Regiment receives official recognition
On this date in 1862, First Louisiana Native Guards, the first Black regiment to receive official recognition, mustered into army. Regiment was... Continue →
1827 - Senator Hiram Rhodes Revels was born.
On this date in 1827, Hiram R. Revels, first Black U.S. senator, was born free in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
1986 - The First Black Psychic!
On this date in 1986, Shirley Ajayi was the first African American given a part on a television show as a psychic! The show lasted for about one... Continue →
1961 - "Purlie Victorious" opens on Broadway
On this date in 1961, Purlie Victorious, a farce by playwright Ossie Davis, opened on Broadway. This stage play was written by and stars Ossie Davis... Continue →
1965 - Stan Bernard Interviews Malcom X at Barnard College
On February 18, 1965, Malcom X engages in a heated debate live on the air with Gordon Hall, who considered himself an expert on extremism. Malcolm X... Continue →
1965 - Malcolm X 's delivers "Not just an American problem, but a world problem,” address in the Corn Hill Methodist Church.
On this date in 1965, Malcolm X's "Not just an American problem, but a world problem,” address delivered in the Corn Hill Methodist Church in... Continue →
1965- Malcolm X delivers "There is a World Wide Revolution Going Speech."
On this dates in 1965, Malcolm X delivers "There is a World Wide Revolution Going Speech." Malcolm X - "You and I are living at a time when there... Continue →
1978 - Musician Sisqo was born.
On this date in 1978, Musician Mark Althavean Andrews, better known by his stage name Sisqó, was born. Sisqo is an American R&B singer, songwriter,... Continue →
1731 - Inventor Benajamin Banneker was born.
On this date in 1731, Almanac author, astronomer, surveyor, naturalist, farmer, and inventor of the first clock in America Benjamin Banneker was born... Continue →
1964 - Zoologist Roger Arliner Young died.
On this date in 1964, Zoologist Roger Arliner Young died. Ms. Young was the first African American woman to receive a doctorate degree in zoology.
1970 - Politician William Levi Dawson died.
On this date in 1970, politician William Levi Dawson, who represented Chicago, Illinois for more than 27 years in the United States House of... Continue →
1956 - Opera Singer Mattiwilda Dobbs sings romantic lead.
On this date in 1956, Mattiwilda Dobbs become the first African American to sing a romantic lead at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. ... Continue →
1868 - Medical School at Howard University Opens
On this date in 1868, Howard University opened their medical school with eight students and five faculty members. Among the eight students, seven... Continue →
1868 - Governor Powell Clayton declares martial law.
On this date in 1868, Arkansas Governor Powell Clayton declared martial law in ten counties and mobilized the state militia due to a Ku Klux Klan... Continue →
1922 - Actress Dorothy Dandridge was born
on this date in 1922, American film and theater actress, singer and dancer Dorthy Dandridge was born in Cleveland, Ohio. Dorothy Dandridge was the... Continue →
1961 - Andrew T. Hatcher named associate press secretary to President John F. Kennedy
ON this date in 1961, Andrew T. Hatcher named associate press secretary to President John F. Kennedy. Andrew was also a founder of 100 Black Men of... Continue →
1958 - Sam Cooke, Bobby Womack and Lou Rawls injured in car accident
On this date in 1958, Sam Cooke, Bobby Womack, and Lou Rawls were injured in an automobile accident new Marion, Arkansas. The accident takes the... Continue →
1831 - Nat Turner Confesses
On this date in 1831 shortly after being captured, Nat Turner was interviewed in jail by Baltimore lawyer, Thomas R. Gray. Turner gave in detail the... Continue →
1962 - President Kennedy issues Executive Order 11063 barring racial descrimination
On this date in 1962, President John F. Kennedy issues Executive Order 11063, which mandates an end to discrimination in housing. Executive Order... Continue →
1962- Robert C. Weaver awarded Spingarn Medal
On this date in 1962, Economist and Government Official Robert C. Weaver,one of the least known of the civil rights pioneers, was awarded Spingarn... Continue →
1938 - Morgan State College is established in Baltimore Maryland.
ON this date in 1938, Morgan State College was established. Morgan State University is a historically black college in Baltimore, Maryland, United... Continue →
1923 - Garret T. Morgan patents the traffic signal.
On this date in 1923, the U.S. Patent Office grants Garret T. Morgan Patent No. 14755024 for his three-position traffic signal. Although, Morgan’s... Continue →
1922-Louisiana Governor conferred with President on KKK.
On this date in 1922, 1922 Louisiana governor conferred with president on KKK violence in his state.
1922 - Mary B. Talbert awarded Spingarn Medal
On this date in 1922, Mary B. Talbert, former president of the National Association of Colored Women (NAACP), for service to Black women and for... Continue →
1865 - Colored Peoples Convention held in Zion Church
On this dated in 1865, blacks held acolored peoples convention in the Zion Church in Charleston and demanded equal rights and repeal of the Black... Continue →
1866 - Howard University was Founded
On this date in 1866, 10 members of the First Congregational Society of Washington, D.C., gathered for a missionary meeting. They decided to... Continue →
1997 - Kofi Annan becomes first Black Secretary General of United Nations
On this date in 1997, Kofi Annan of Ghana becomes first black secretary of United Nations.
1808 - The African Benevolent Society for Education was founded.
On this date in 1808, the African Benevolent Society for Education was founded.
1808 - The importation of African slaves prohibited.
On this date in 1808, the federal law prohibiting the importation of African slaves went into effect.
1973 - WGPR becomes the 1ST television station owned by African Americans
On this date in 1973 - WGPR is given a permit and becomes the 1ST television station owned by African Americans.
1966 - Civil Rights Conference
On this date in 1966 approximately 2,400 persons attended White House Conference on Civil Rights.
1921 - Race riot in Tulsa, Oklahom
On this date in 1921 - a race riot occurred in Tulsa, Oklahoma. A white mob started the Tulsa race riot, attacking residents and businesses of the... Continue →
1868 - Texas constitutional convention
On this date in 1868 a constitutional convention convened in Austin. The ninety delegates consisted of eighty whites and ten blacks.
1864 - Solomon George Washington Dill killed
On this date in 1864, Solomon George Washington Dill, poor white ally of Black Republicans was assassinated in his home by white terrorists. Dill had... Continue →
1864 - Florida General Assembly in Tallahassee
On this date in 1864, the Florida General Assembly (nineteen Blacks, fifty-seven whites) met in Tallahassee.
1967 - Race riot in Roxbury, Massachusetts
On this date in 1967 - A Race riot in the Roxbury section of Boston, Massachusetts. Roxbury was a predominantly Black section of the city, which was... Continue →
1943 - 99th Squadron flies first combat mission over Italy
On this day ion 1943, the Ninety-ninth Pursuit Squadron flew P-40 Warhawks over the Mediterranean Sea for their first combat mission, strafing enemy... Continue →
1899 - Black Americans observed day of fasting to protest lychings
ON this day in 1899, Black Americans observed day of fasting and prayer called by National Afro-American Council to protest lynching and racial... Continue →
1875 - Bishop James Augustine Healy born
On this day in 1875, James Augustine Healy, the first African American Roman Catholic Bishop, born in Macon, Georgia.
1868 - John Hope was born on this day.
On this day 1868 - John Hope was born on this day in Augusta, Georgia. John Hope was an African American educator and political activist, the first... Continue →
1854 - Fugitive Slave Anthony Burns returned to the South
On this day in 1854 - Fugitive slave Anthony Burns was returned to the South from Boston. In 1854, Burns took steps to find freedom. While working in... Continue →
1834 - Fifth national Black convention met in New York
On this date in 1834, the Fifth National Black convention met in New York with 50 delegates from eight states.
1942 - Singer Curtis Mayfield was born
On this day in 1942, Curtis Mayfield was born in Chicago, Illinois, where he quickly absorbed the music of that area, which consisted of the local... Continue →
1919 - Liberty Life Insurance Company Incorporated (Chicago)
On this day in 1919, Liberty Life Insurance Company (Chicago), the first old-line legal reserve company organized by Blacks in the North,... Continue →
1906 - Entertainer Josephine Baker born
On this day in 1906, Entertainer Josephine Baker was born. At the age of sixteen, she starred in the musical Shuffle Along. Her vibrant and humorous... Continue →
1877 - Roland Hayes was born
On this day in 1877, Roland Hayes, the first African American to give a recital in Boston's Symphony Hall, was born.
1871 - Miles Vandehurst Lynk was born
ON this date in 1871, Miles Vandehurst Lynk, founder of the first African American medical journal and organizer of the National Medical Association,... Continue →
1854 - Fugitive slave Anthony Burns arrested in Boston
On this day in 1854, Anthony Burns, a fugitive slave, was arrested in Boston. His master refused an offer of $1200 made by Boston citizens for his... Continue →
1833 - Fourth National Black convention met
On this day in 1833, Fourth national Black convention met in Philadelphia with sixty-two delegates from eight states. Abraham D. Shadd of... Continue →
1989 - Four African Americans win Tony Awards
On this day in 1989, Four African Americans win Tony Awards for Black and Blue
1973 - Death of Writer and Educator Arna Bontemps
On this day in 1973, Arna Bontemps (72), writer and educator, passed away in Nashville, Tennessee.
1972 - Angela Davis acquitted by white jury in San Jose
On this day in 1972, Angela Davis was acquitted by white jury in San Jose, California, of charges stemming from a 1970 courtroom shoot-out.
1946 - Mississippi Valley State University
On this day in 1946, Mississippi Valley State University was founded in Itta Bena, Mississippi.
1922 - Samuel L. Gravely was born
On this day in 1922, Samuel L. Gravely was born. Samuel Gravely was appointed captain of the Navy Destroyer Escort, U.S.S. Falgout, the first African... Continue →
1832 - Third National Black convention met
On this day in 1832, the Third National Black convention met in Philadelphia with twenty-nine delegates from eight states. Henry Sipkins of New York... Continue →
1973 - Cardiss R. Collins elected to Congress
On this day in 1973, Cardiss R. Collins of Chicago was elected to Congress. She succeeded her late husband.
1969 - Race riot in Connecticut
On this date in 1969, there a Race riot occurred in Hartford, Connecticut.
1955 - Martin Luther King Jr. is awarded his doctorate
On this day in 1955, Martin Luther King Jr. is awarded his doctorate from Boston University.
1950 - The Supreme Court weakened segregation
ON this date in 1950, U.S. Supreme Court undermined the legal foundations of segregation in three landmark cases, Sweatt v. Painter, McLaurin v.... Continue →
1945 - Track star John Carlos born
On this day 1945, Olympic track and field star John Carlos born in New York City. John Carlos would become famous at the 1968 Olympic Summer Games... Continue →
1940 - The American Negro Theater organized
On this day in 1940, the American Negro Theater was organized by Frederick O'Neal and Abram Hill.
1894 - G.W. Murray patents fertilizer distributor
On this day in 1894, G.W. Murray patents Fertilizer Distributor Patent No. 520,889
1894 - G.W. Murray patents cotton chopper
On this day in 1894, G.W. Murray patents Cotton Chopper, Patent No. 520,888.
1894 - G.W. Murray patents Planter
On thus day in 1894, G.W. Murray patents Planter, Patent No. 520,887
1872 - Republican National Convention met in Philadelphia
On this day in 1872, the Republican National Convention met in Philadelphia with substantial Black representation from Southern States. For the first... Continue →
1783 - Oliver Cromwell receives honorable discharge and the Badge of Merit
On this day in 1783, Oliver Cromwell, soldier in the Revolutionary War, receives an honorable discharge and the Badge of Merit from George Washington... Continue →
1977 - Joseph Lawson Howze installed as bishop
On this day in 1977, Joseph Lawson Howze installed as bishop of the Roman Catholic diocese of Biloxi, Mississippi.
1966 - Marches for the right to vote
On this day in 1966, James Meredith wounded by white sniper as he walked along U.S. Highway 51 near Hernando, Mississippi, on second day of 220-mile... Continue →
1950 - Lt. Gen. Frank E. Petersen.
On this day in 1950, Frank Petersen enlisted in the Navy. At the age of 20, he was the first Afro-American to be named a naval aviator in the Marine... Continue →
1939 - Marian Wright Edelman was born on this day
On this day in 1939, Children's Advocate Marian Wright Edelman was born.
1869 - Dillard University chartered in New Orleans, Louisiana.
On this day in 1869, Dillard University chartered in New Orleans, Louisiana.
1863 - The Battle of Milken's Bend
On this day in 1863, at the Battle of Milken's Bend a Negro soldier takes his former master prisoner.
1831 - Second national Black convention met
On this day in 1831, the Second National Black convention met in Philadelphia. There were fifteen delegates from five states.
1790 - Jean Baptist Pointe Desable founds Chicago
On this day in 1790, Jean Baptist Pointe Desable, a French speaking Santo Domingo native, becomes the first permanent resident and thus founder of... Continue →
1987 - Lloyd Richards wins a Tony
On this day in 1987, Lloyd Richards wins a Tony as best director for the August Wilson play Fences. The play also wins Tony's for best play, best... Continue →
1958 - Singer Prince born
On this date in 1958, Composer, musician and singer Prince Rogers Nelson born in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
1943 - Poet Nikki Giovanni Born
On this day in 1943, Born Yolande Cornelia Giovanni, Jr. on June 7, 1943 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Nikki Giovanni became a leading poet of the Black... Continue →
1917 - Poet Gwendolyn Brooks born
On this date in 1917, Pulitzer Prize winning poet Gwendolyn Brooks was born in Topeka, Kansas.
1868 - Marie Laveau, the "Queen of the Voodoo" dethroned.
On this day in 1868, Marie Laveau, the "Queen of the Voodoo," was dethroned because of old age. Believed to be born in New Orleans in 1794 and died... Continue →
1863 - Battle at Milliken's Bend
On this day in 1863, Three regiments and small detachment of white troops repulsed division of Texans in hand-to-hand battle at Milliken's Bend,... Continue →
1968 - M.L.K. Assassin Captured
On this day in 1968, James Earl Ray, alleged assassin of Martin Luther King Jr., captured at London airport.
1953 - Martin Luther King Jr. Marries
On this day in 1953, King, Sr., performs the marriage ceremony of King, Jr., and Coretta Scott at the Scott home near Marion, Alabama.
1989 - Congressman John Conyers calls for Reparations study
On this day in 1989, Congressman John Conyers D-Michigan announced a call for a reparations study.
1929 - Singer Johnny Ace born
On this day in 1939, R&B singer Johnny Ace was born John Marshall Alexander, Jr. in Memphis, Tennessee. His major hits include "My Song" and... Continue →
1964 - U.S. Senate imposed cloture for first time
On this day in 1964, the U.S. Senate imposed cloture for first time on a civil rights measure, ending Southern Filibuster by a vote of 71-29. Civil... Continue →
1941 - Death of Marcus Garvey
On this day in 1941, Marcus Garvey (52) died in London, England.
1910 - Rhythm & blues singer Howlin' Wolf is born.
On this day in 1910, Rhythm & blues singer Howlin' Wolf is born Chester Arthur Burnett in West Point, Mississippi. His most popular and influential... Continue →
1899 - Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks founded
On this day in 1899, the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks founded in Cincinnati.
1854 - James Augustine Healy ordains a priest
On this day in 1854, James Augustine Healy, first Black American Roman Catholic bishop, ordained a priest in Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris.
1967 - Race riot in Tampa Florida
On this day in 1967, there was a Race riot in Tampa, Florida. The National Guard was mobilized.
1963 - Vivian Malone and James Hood, register at the University of Alabama
On this day in 1963, Vivian Malone and James Hood, accompanied by U.S. Deputy Attorney General Nicholas Katzenbach attempt to register at the... Continue →
1963 - Segregation is morally wrong said Kennedy
On this day in 1963, President Kennedy told nation in radio-TV address that segregation was morally wrong and that it was "time to act in the... Continue →
1991 - Michael Jordan leads Chicago to 1st NBA Title
ON this day in 1991, Michael Jordan lead Chicago Bulls in win over L.A. Lakers in five games to capture his first NBA Championship.
1967 - Virginia's inter-racial marriage deemed unconstitutional
On this day in 1967, U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a Virginia law banning inter-racial marriage was unconstitutional.
1967 - Race riot in Cincinnati, Ohio
On this day in 1967, a Race riot occurred in Cincinnati, Ohio. Three hundred persons were arrested, and the National Guard was mobilized.
1963 - Demonstrations for housing, school and jobs
On this day in 1963, Civil rights groups demonstrated at Harlem construction sites to Protest discrimination in building trades unions.... Continue →
1886 - Ex-slave Amanda Eubanks left millions in will
IN this day in 1886, the Georgia State Supreme Court sustained the will of the late David Dickson, thus making Amanda Eubanks, the daughter of a... Continue →
1876 - The first known monument erected by African Americans in Philadelphia's Fairmont park
The first known monument erected by African Americans to honor one of our heroes is dedicated to Richard Allen in Philadelphia's Fairmont park.
1840 - The World's Anti-Slavery Convention
On this day in 1840, the World's Anti-Slavery Convention convenes in London, England.
1990 - Bernadette Locke becomes the first female on-court coach
On thus day in 1990, Bernadette Locke becomes the first female on-court coach when she is named assistant coach of the University of Kentucky men's... Continue →
1937 - Eleanor Holmes born
On this day in 1937, Eleanor Holmes (later Eleanor Norton) is born in Washington, DC. A graduate of the Yale University School of Law, Norton will... Continue →
1910 - William D. Crum appointed minister to Liberia
On this day in 1910, William D. Crum (1859-1912), a South Carolina physician, appointed minister to Liberia.
1868 - Ex-slave Oscar J. Dunn becomes lieutenant governor of Louisiana.
On this day in 1868, Ex-slave Oscar J. Dunn becomes lieutenant governor of Louisiana. It is the highest executive office held by an African American... Continue →
1971 - Justice Department filed suit
On this day in 1971, Justice Department filed suit against the St. Louis suburb of Black Jack, charging the community with illegally using municipal... Continue →
1952 - Dr. Harold D. West named President of Meharry Medical College
On this day in 1952, Dr. Harold D. West is named President of Meharry Medical College
1946 - Marla Gibbs, television personality, born
On this day in 1946, Marla Gibbs, television personality, born
1941 - John Edgar Wideman, Rhodes scholar, writer, born
On this day in 1941, John Edgar Wideman, Rhodes scholar, writer, born
1939 - The Ethel Waters Show
On this day in 1939, The Ethel Waters Show, a variety special appears on NBC. It is the first time an African American appears on television
1971 - Vernon E.Jordan Jr.
On this day in 1971, Vernon E. Jordan Jr., former executive director of the United Negro College Fund, appointed executive director of the National... Continue →
1968 - Ellen Holly becomes the first African American on daytime television
On this day in 1968, Ellen Holly becomes the first African American on daytime television as Carla on One Life to Live.
1921 - Erroll Garner, keyboardist born
On this day in 1921, Erroll Garner born in Pittsburgh,PA
1921 - Bessie Coleman receives pilot's license
On this day in 1921, Bessie Coleman attended the "...Ecole d'Aviation des Freres Caudron at Le Crotoy in Somme for a 10 month flight training course.... Continue →
1864 - The Strategies of Battle
On this day in 1864, Grant outwitted Lee by shifting campaign from Cold Harbor to Petersburg. Surprise attack by Gen. W.F. ("Baldy") Smith succeeded... Continue →
1864 - Congress helped Blacks in the military
On this day in 1864, Congress passed bill equalizing pay, arms, equipment and medical services of Black troops.
War of 1812
ON this day in 1812,the United States declared war on Britain War. Although the U.S. Army did not enlist African Americans after the Revolutionary... Continue →
1991 - Natalie Cole's album, Unforgettable is released.
On this day in 1991, Natalie Cole's album, Unforgettable is released.
1976 - Hector Petersen, a 13 year old Soweto schoolboy is the first to die
ON this day in 1976, Hector Petersen, a 13 year old Soweto schoolboy is the first to die in what will become the "Children's Crusade", the first... Continue →
1975 - Adam Wade hosts the Nationally televised game show Musical Chairs.
On this day in 1975, Adam Wade hosts the Nationally televised game show Musical Chairs. He is the first African American game show host.
1970 - Kenneth A Gibson elected the first African American mayor of Newark.
On this day in 1970, Kenneth A Gibson elected the first African American mayor of Newark. In 1976, he will be elected the first African American... Continue →
1943 - Race riot, Beaumont, Texas
On this day in 1943, Race riot, Beaumont, Texas. Two killed.
1864 - Siege of Petersburg and Richmond began
On this day in 1964, Siege of Petersburg and Richmond began. Thirty-two Black infantry regiments and Black cavalry regiments were involved in siege.... Continue →
1775 - Peter Salem
On this date in 1775, Peter Salem a free slave and a private in Captain Simon Edgel's company at the battle of Bunker Hill, was the first military... Continue →
1972 - Frank Wills and Watergate Conspiracy
On this date in 1972, Frank Wills, Washington security guard, foiled break-in at offices of Democratic National Committee in first event of the... Continue →
1948 - Actress Phylicia Rashad born
On this date in 1948, Actress Phylicia Rashad was born in Houston, Texas.
1937 - Journalist Robert Maynard born
ON this date in 1937, Journalist Robert Clyve Maynard, owner, editor and publisher of "The Oakland Tribune," was born in the borough of Brooklyn, NY.
1928 - Singer James Brown born
On this date in 1928, Blues singer, "the Godfather of Soul," James Brown was born in Pulaski, Tennessee.
1897 - William Frank Powell named minister to Haiti
On this date in 1897, William Frank Powell, New Jersey educator, named minister to Haiti.
1871 - James Weldon Johnson, born
ON this date in 1871, Author, lyricist, poet and educator James Weldon Johnson, also the first Black executive of the NAACP, is born in Jacksonville,... Continue →
1862 - Congress authorized President Lincoln to accept blacks in Union Army.
On this date in 1862, Congress authorized President Lincoln to accept blacks in Union Army.
1775 - Blacks soldiers fought in battles
On this date in 1775, Blacks soldiers fought at Battle of Bunker Hill and Breed's Hill. Among the heroes of the battle were Peter Salem and Salem... Continue →
1942 - U.S. Navy 1st Black Officer
On this date in 1942, the U.S. Navy commissions its first black officer, Harvard University medical student Bernard Whitfield Robinson.
1991 - Wellington Webb is elected mayor
ON this date in 1991, City Auditor Wellington Webb is elected mayor of Denver, Colo. He is the first African American to hold the post.
1966 - Samuel Nabrit
ON this date in 1966, Samuel Nabrit is the first African American to serve on the Atomic Energy Commission
1963 - Black students boycotted Public Schools
On this date in 1963, Three thousand Black students boycotted Boston public schools as protest against de facto segregation.
1953 - Egypt becomes republic
ON this date in 1953, Egypt becomes a republic after the forced abdication of King Farouk I.
1941 - President Roosevelt wanted demonstration ended
On this date in 1941, President Roosevelt conferred with A. Philip Randolph and other leaders of the March on Washington movement and urged them to... Continue →
1941 - George Washington Carver was awarded an honorary Doctorate
On this date in 1941, Tuskegee scientist George Washington Carver was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree by the University of Rochester.
1993 - Ronald H Brown was appointed head of the Department of Commerce
On this date in 1933, Former chairman of the Democratic National Committee, Ronald H Brown was appointed head of the Department of Commerce by... Continue →
1993 - First Black Woman to Head a Medical School
On this date in 19993, Barbara Ross-Lee, practicing family physician, Naval officer, and medical educator, assumed the position as dean of Ohio... Continue →
1979 - James Patterson Lyke installed as auxiliary bishop
ON this date in 1979, James Patterson Lyke installed as auxiliary bishop of the Cleveland diocese of the Roman Catholic Church.
1964 - Arthur Ashe becomes first Black person named to the US Davis Cup team
On this date in 1964, Arthur Ashe, first Black male to win Wimbledon, becomes first Black person named to the US Davis Cup team.
1961 - Whitney Young Jr. named executive director of the National Urban League
On this date in 1961, Whitney Young Jr. named executive director of the National Urban League.
1960 - Dahomey proclaimed independent
On this date in 1960, Dahomey proclaimed independent. Independence was also celebrated in Niger (August 3), Upper Volta (August 5), Ivory Coast... Continue →
1944 - Adam Clayton Powell elected congressman
On this date in 1944, Adam Clayton Powell elected first Black congressman from East.
1943 - Race riot in Harlem
On this date in 1943, a Race riot occurred in Harlem. (From 8/1 through 8/2).
1941 - Ronald H Brown was born
On this date in 1941, Former chairman of the Democratic National Committee, Ronald H Brown was born.
1930 - Actor Geoffrey Holder born
ON this date in 1930, Actor Geoffrey Holder was born on the island of Trinidad, British West Indies.
1925 - The National Bar Association incorporated in Des Moines
On this date in 1925, The National Bar Association is the National Bar Association incorporated in Des Moines.
1920 - National Convention of Marcus Garvey's Universal Improvement Association
On this date in 1920, The National convention of Marcus Garvey's Universal Improvement Association opened in Liberty Hall in Harlem. The next night... Continue →
1991 - Dr. Mary Schmidt Campbell becomes dean of New York University's Tisch School of the Arts
On this date in 1991, Dr. Mary Schmidt Campbell, art historian, becomes dean of New York University's Tisch School of the Arts.
1962 - 12,000 federal soldiers restore order on the University of Mississippi campus.
On this date in 1962, Some twelve thousand federal soldiers restored order on the University of Mississippi campus. James H. Meredith, escorted by... Continue →
1962 - James Meredith starts school
ON this date in 1962, James Meredith starts school. He was the first Black student at University of Mississippi It took, 3000 federal troops quell... Continue →
1952 - Joe Black become first Black Pitcher to Win a World Series Game
On this date in 1962, Joe Black becomes the first black pitcher to win a World Series game. The Dodgers defeated the New York Yankees 4-2. Black was... Continue →
1952 - Juanita James was born.
On this date in 1952, Juanita James was born. She is a writer, who has been coined, "The gatekeeper of prose."
1951 - Twenty-fourth Infantry Regiment,deactivated in Korea
On this date in 1951, The Twenty-fourth Infantry Regiment, last of all-Black units military units authorized by Congress in 1866, deactivated in... Continue →
1989 - Jump Start premieres in 40 newspapers
ON this date in 1989, Jump Start premieres in 40 newspapers in the U.S. It is created by 26 year old Robb Armstrong, the youngest African American to... Continue →
1986 - The U.S. Senate overrides President Ronald Reagan's veto
ON this date in 1986, the U.S. Senate overrides President Ronald Reagan's veto of legislation imposing economic sanctions in South Africa.
1986 - Edward J. Perkins appointed Ambassador to South Africa
On this date in 1986, President Ronald Reagan appointed Edward J. Perkins ambassador to South Africa.
1935 - Robert H Lawrence (First Black astronaut), was born on this date
On this date in 1935, Robert H Lawrence (Named the first Black astronaut), was born on this date.
1979 - Death of artist Charles White dies
ON this date in 1979, artist Charles White (61) dies in Los Angeles.
1974 - Frank Robinson named manager of the Cleveland
On this date in 1974, Frank Robinson named manager of the Cleveland Indians and became the first Black manager in the major leagues.
1956 - Nat King Cole host own TV show
On this day in 1956, Nat King Cole was the first black performer to host his own tv show.
1949 - First Black radio station, WERD, begins operating in Atlanta
ON this date in 1949, the First Black radio station, WERD, begins operating in Atlanta, Georgia.
1941 - Chubby Checker born
ON this day in 1941, Singer Chubby Checker was born. Born Ernest Evans, in Philadelphia. Checker was best known for "The Twist" a hit song that soon... Continue →
1935 - Ethiopia Invaded by Italy
On this date in 1935, Ethiopia, one of the only two independent African nations at the time, was invaded by Facist Italy under Benito Mussolini. The... Continue →
1904 - Mary McLeod Bethune opened School in Daytona Beach
ON this date in 1904, Mary McLeod Bethune opened Daytona Normal and Industrial School in Daytona Beach, Florida. In 1923 the school merged with... Continue →
1856 - Timothy ("T.") Thomas Fortune was born on this day.
On this date in 1856, Timothy ("T.") Thomas Fortune was born on this day.
1996 - Congress passed a bill authorizing the creation of 500,000 Black Revolutionary
On this date in 1996, Congress passed a bill authorizing the creation of 500,000 Black Revolutionary War Patriots Commemorative coins.
1988 - The Martin L. King, Jr. Federal Building is dedicated in Atlanta,Georgia.
On this date in 1988, the Martin L. King, Jr. Federal Building is dedicated in Atlanta, Ga. It is the first federal building in the nation to bear... Continue →
1982 - Rayford Logan, educator, historian, author, dies
ON this date in 1982, Rayford Logan, educator, historian, author, dies
1969 - Howard N. Lee and Charles Evers are elected the first African American mayors.
On this date in 1969, Howard N. Lee and Charles Evers are elected the first African American mayors of Chapel Hill, N.C. and Fayette, Miss.,... Continue →
1864 - The New Orleans Tribune founded
On this date in 1864, the New Orleans Tribune, the first black daily newspaper, was founded by Dr. Louis C. Roudanez. The newspaper, published in... Continue →
1864 - National Black convention met in Syracuse, New York.
On this date in 1864, National Black convention met in Syracuse, New York.
1966 - Independence Day - Kingdom of Lesotho
ON this date in 1966, The Kingdom of Lesotho declared its independence
1777 - African Americans Replaces Reluctant Whites
On this day in 1777, African Americans Replaced Reluctant Whites as, losses on the field of battle and rising White desertions reduced the... Continue →
1872 - educator, Booker T Washington, leaves Malden, West VA to enter Hampton Institute
On this date in 1872, Educator, Booker T Washington, leaves Malden, West VA to enter Hampton Institute.
1869 - First Reconstruction legislature met in Richmond, Virginia
On this date in 1869, the First Reconstruction legislature (27 Blacks, 150 whites) met in Richmond, Virginia.
1867 - Monroe Baker, named mayor of St. Martin, Louisiana.
On this date in 1867, Monroe Baker, a well-to-do Black businessman, named mayor of St. Martin, Louisiana, two years after the end of slavery. Monroe... Continue →
1971 - First Legal Interracial Marriage in North Carolina
On this date in 1971, John A. Wilkinson's marriage to Lorraine Mary Turner was the first legalized interracial marriage in North Carolina. Wilkinson... Continue →
1895 - Riding Saddle
On this date in 1895, W.D. Davis patented an improved riding saddle. Davis invented his saddle while serving as a buffalo soldier, African American... Continue →
1871 - Fisk Jubilee Singers began first national tour
On this date in 1871, Fisk Jubilee Singers began first national tour.
1868 - Black state convention at Macon, Georgia.
ON this date in 1868, Black state convention at Macon, Georgia, protested expulsion of Black politicians from Georgia legislature.
1847 - National Black convention met in Troy, New York.
ON this date in 1847, National Black convention met in Troy, N.Y., with more than 60 delegates from nine states. Nathan Johnson of Massachusetts was... Continue →
1988 - Singer Billy Daniels dies
On this date in 1988,Jazz and ballad singer Billy Daniels dies in Los Angeles.
1934 - Writer Imamu Amiri Baraka born
On this date in 1934, Playwright Imamu Amiri Baraka born Everett LeRoi Jones in Newark, New Jersey.
1931 - Archbishop Desmond Mpilo Tutu born.
ON this date in 1931, Archbishop Desmond Mpilo Tutu born.
1897 - Elijah Poole, aka The Honorable Elijah Muhammad, born
ON this date in 1897, Elijah Poole, aka The Honorable Elijah Muhammad, born
1891 - Archibald John Motley, painter, born
On this date in 1891, Archibald John Motley, painter, born
1890 - Humphrey H. Reynolds patents safety gate for bridge
On this date in 1890, Humphrey H. Reynolds, patents Safety Gate for Bridges, Patent No. 437,937
1888 - Sargent C. Johnson, pioneering artist of the Harlem Renaissance born
On this date in 1888, Sargent C. Johnson, pioneering artist of the Harlem Renaissance , known for his wood, cast stone, and ceramic sculptures, born
1873 - Henry E Hayne, accepted to University of South Carolina
On this date in 1873, Henry E. Hayne, secretary of state, accepted as the first student of color at the University of South Carolina medical school.... Continue →
1821 - William Still, Chronicler of The Underground Railroad Records, was born.
ON this date in 1821, William Still, Chronicler of The Underground Railroad Records, was born.
1941 - Rev Jesse Jackson, born
On this date in 1941, Activist and 1988 candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination, Rev Jesse Jackson, born in Greenville, Sounth Carolina.
1775 - Council of general officers decided to bar slaves
On this date in 1775, Council of general officers decided to bar slaves and free Blacks from Continental Army.
1984 - W Wilson Goode becomes the 1st African American mayor of Philadelphia
On this date in 1984, W Wilson Goode becomes the 1st African American mayor of Philadelphia
1974 - Frank Robinson,becomes the manager of the Cleveland Indians
On this date in 1974, Professional baseball player, Frank Robinson,becomes the manager of the Cleveland Indians and the first Black manager of a... Continue →
1940 - The White House pens segregation policy
On this date in 1940, the White House released a statement which said that government "policy is not to intermingle colored and white enlisted... Continue →
1888 - Obadiah.B. Clare patents rail trestle
ON this date in 1888, Obadiah. B. Clare, patents Trestle, Patent# 390,753
1823 - Mary Ann Shadd, born
ON this date in 1823, Mary Ann Shadd, publisher of Canada's first antislavery newspaper, The Provincial Freeman and the first woman in North American... Continue →
1806 - Mathematician Benjamin Banneker dies.
On this date in 1806, Mathematician Benjamin Banneker (74) dies, in Ellicott's Mills, Maryland.
1978 - Congressman Ralph H. Metcalfe dies.
ON this date in 1978, Congressman Ralph H. Metcalfe (68) dies in Chicago.
1966 - Founding of the Black Panther Party
On this date in 1966, The Black Panther Party Founded October 10, 1966 Oakland, California by Huey P. Newton annd Bobby Seale
1961 - Otis M. Smith appointed to Michigan Supreme Court
On this date in 1961, Otis M. Smith appointed to Michigan Supreme Court. Otis M. Smith Scholarship
1935 - Porgy and Bess premieres in New York City
On this date in 1935, Porgy and Bess premieres in New York City
1901 - Frederick Douglass Patterson born
On this date in 1901, Frederick Douglass Patterson, veterinarian and founder of the United Negro College Fund, born
1874 - South Carolina Republicans carried election with reduced margin.
On this date in 1874, South Carolina Republicans carried election with reduced margin. Republican tickets was composed of four whites and four... Continue →
1863 - Saint Francis Xavier Church purchased
On this date in 1863, The first exclusively Black parish in the United States was Saint Francis Xavier Church in Baltimore, Maryland. It was... Continue →
1796 - African Free School opened in New York.
On this date in 1796, an African Free School opened in New York. It was the the first school for Blacks in America opened. The African Free School... Continue →
1972 - Prison uprising, Washington, D.C., jail
On this date in 1972, Prison uprising, Washington, D.C., jail.
1939 - NAACP organizes the Education Fund and Legal Defense.
On this date in 1939, the NAACP organizes the Education Fund and Legal Defense.
1898 - Shampoo Headrest patented.
ON this date in 1898, C.O. Bailiff patented the shampoo headrest. Patent #US612008 A
1887 - Elevator and Safety Devices Invented
On this date in 1887, the elevator as well as safety devices for elevators where invented by Alexander Miles, Patent # 371,207
1865 - Jamaican national hero, Paul Bogle, leads a successful protest
On this date in 1865, Jamaican national hero, Paul Bogle, leads a successful protest march to the Morant Bay Courthouse.
1814 - General Jackson Reneges On His Promise
On this date in 1814, General Jackson Reneges On His Promise: General Jackson, on order to prepare to meet Packenham, the British General, in the... Continue →
1972 - Forty-six Black and white sailors injured in race riot.
ON this date in 1972, 46 Black and white sailors injured in race riot on the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk of North Vietnam.
1945 - Jesse James Payne was lynched in Madison County
On this date in 1945, Jesse James Payne was lynched in Madison County, Florida.
1980 - Unprovoked slayings of six Blacks in Buffalo, New York.
ON this date in 1980, an unprovoked slayings of six Blacks in Buffalo, New York, triggered demands for national investigation. Spingarn Medal awarded... Continue →
1970 - Angela Davis arrested in New York City and charged.
ON this date in 1970, Angela Davis arrested in New York City and charged with unlawful flight to avoid persecution for her alleged role in California... Continue →
1926 - First Black naval aviator, Jesse Leroy Brown born.
On this date in 1926, First Black naval aviator, Jesse Leroy Brown was born.
1919 - Race riot, Elaine, Phillips County, Arkansas
ON this date in 1919, a Race riot occurred in , Elaine, Phillips County, Arkansas. Five whites and 25 to 50 Blacks reported killed. 76 Blacks were... Continue →
1914 - Garrett T Morgan patents the gas mask, Patent #US1113675 A
O this date in 1914, Garrett T Morgan patents the gas mask. Patent #US1113675 A
1902 - Noted poet, Arna W Bontemps was born.
On this date in 1902, Noted poet, Arna W Bontemps was born.
1901 - First Black delegate to United Nations, Edith Sampson, born.
On thus date in 1901, First Black delegate to United Nations, Edith Sampson was born.
1999 - Pennsylvania governor signs death warrant.
On this date in 1999, the governor of Pennsylvania, Thomas Ride, signs the death warrant for Mumia Abu-Jamal. Mumia is charged with the early... Continue →
1999 - Former Tanzanian President Julius Nyerere dies
ON this date in 1999, Former Tanzanian President Julius Nyerere dies at the age of 77 from leukemia. Nyerere was lauded as one of the greatest... Continue →
1971 - Two killed in Memphis racial disturbances
ON this date in 1971, Two killed in Memphis racial disturbances.
1969 - Race riot, Springfield, Massachusetts.
On this date in 1969, a race riot occurred in Springfield, Massachusetts.
1958 - The District of Columbia Bar Association votes to accept African Americans as members.
On this date in 1958, the District of Columbia Bar Association votes to accept African Americans as members.
1916 - Sophomore tackle Paul Robeson is excluded from the Rutgers football team.
On this date in 1916, Sophomore tackle Paul Robeson is excluded from the Rutgers football team when Washington and Lee University refused to play... Continue →
1902 - William Boyd Allison Davis born
On this date in 1902, William Boyd Allison Davis, a leading social anthropologist and educator, challenged the cultural bias of standardized... Continue →
1864 - The first African American daily newspaper, the New Orleans Tribune is published
On this date in 1864, The first African American daily newspaper, the New Orleans Tribune is published in both French and English.
1834 - Harry Blair patents his corn-planting machine.
On this date in 1834, Harry Blair patents his corn-planting machine. The planter resembled a wheelbarrow, with a compartment to hold the seed and... Continue →
1974 - National Guard mobilized to restore order.
On this date in 1974, National Guard mobilized to restore order in Boston school busing crisis.
1968 - Wyomia Tyus wins two consecutive gold medals.
On this date in 1969, Wyomia Tyus becomes the first person to win a gold medal in the 100 meter race in two consecutive Olympic games.
1949 - William Hastie nominated for the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
ON this date in 1949, William Hastie nominated for the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. He was the first Black to sit on the court.
1890 - Alabama Penny Savings Bank organized in Birmingham
ON this date in 1890, Alabama Penny Savings Bank organized in Birmingham.
1883 - U.S. Supreme Court declared Civil Rights Act of 1875 unconstitutional.
ON this date in 1883, U.S. Supreme Court declared Civil Rights Act of 1875 unconstitutional.
1877 - Forty-fifth Congress (1877-79) convened
On this date in 1877, the Forty-fifth Congress (1877-79) convened. One U.S. senator, Blanche K. Bruce, Mississippi. Three U.S. congressmen: Richard... Continue →
1859 - John Brown took direct action to free slaves by force.
On this date in 1859, John Brown whom was an abolitionist took direct action to free slaves by force. He led a raid on Harpers Ferry, in mid-October... Continue →
1984 - Bishop Desmond Tutu, Awarded Nobel Peace Prize, African activist
On this date in 1984, Bishop Desmond Tutu, Awarded Nobel Peace Prize, African activist.
1973 - Maynard Jackson elected mayor of Atlanta
On this date in 1973, Maynard Jackson elected mayor of Atlanta.
1968 - John Carlos and Tommie Smith staged Black Power demonstration.
ON this date in 1968, John Carlos and Tommie Smith staged Black Power demonstration on victory stand after winning 200-meter event at Olympics in... Continue →
1940 - Benjamin Oliver Davis Sr promoted to General
ON this date in 1940, Benjamin Oliver Davis Sr. named the first Black general in the regular army.
1922 - Leon Howard Sullivan was born on this day.
On this date in 1922, Leon Howard Sullivan was born on this day.
1917 - Fannie Lou Hamer was born on this day.
On this date in 1917, Fannie Lou Hamer was born.
1901 - Booker T Washington dines at White House.
On this date in 1901, Booker T. Washington dined at the White House with President Roosevelt and was criticized in the South.
1895 - National Medical Association founded in Atlanta
On this date in 1895, National Medical Association founded in Atlanta.
1876 - Race riot, Cainhoy, South Carolina
On this date in 1876, Race riot, Cainhoy, South Carolina. Five whites and one Black killed.
1872 - South Carolina Republicans carried election with four whites and four blacks.
On this date in 1872, South Carolina Republicans carried election with a ticket of four whites and four Blacks: Richard H. Gleaves, lieutenant... Continue →
1859 - John Brown attacked Harpers Ferry, Virginia.
ON this date in 1859, John Brown attacked Harpers Ferry, Virginia, with thirteen white men and five Blacks. Two of the five Blacks were killed, two... Continue →
1855 - More than one hundred delegates from six states hold Black Convention.
On this date in 1855, more than one hundred delegates from six states held a Black convention in Philadelphia. John Mercer Langston, one of the first... Continue →
1849 - George Washington Williams, the first major Black
On this date in 1849, George Washington Williams, the first major Black historian, born in Bedford Springs, Pennsylvania.
1849 - Charles L. Reason named professor of belles-lettres and French at Central College.
ON this date in 1849, Charles L. Reason named professor of belles-lettres and French at Central College, McGrawville, New York. William G. Allen and... Continue →
1849 - Avery College established in Allegheny,Pennsylvania.
ON this date in 1849, Avery College established in Allegheny, Pennsylvania.
1969 - Dr. Clifton R. Wharton Jr. elected president of Michigan State University
On this date in 1969, Dr. Clifton R. Wharton Jr. elected president of Michigan State University and became the first Black to head a major,... Continue →
1956 - Mae Jemison: Astronaut, Physician, Engineer was born
On this date in 1956, Mae C. Jemison was born the youngest of three children of Charlie and Dorothy Jemison, a maintenance worker and schoolteacher.... Continue →
1888 - Capital Savings Bank of Washington, D.C.opened.
On this date in 1888, Capital Savings Bank of Washington, D.C., the first Black bank, opened in Washington, D.C. The Savings Bank of the Order of... Continue →
1871 - President Grant suspended the writ of habeas
On this date in 1871, President Grant suspended the writ of habeas corpus and declared martial law in nine South Carolina counties affected by Klan... Continue →
1817 - Samuel Ringgold Ward, minister, abolitionist,author, was born
On this date in 1817, Samuel Ringgold Ward, minister, abolitionist, author, born on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
1787 - Equal Education Rights
On this date in 1787, Prince Hall submitted, to the State Legislature of Boston, Massachusetts, a petition asking for equal educational rights. His... Continue →
1720 - Poet Jupiter Hammon was born
On this date in 1720, Jupiter Hammon, a writer and self-educated Calvinist, who was born a slave. Hammon is believed to be the first black poet... Continue →
1951 - Terry McMillan, novelist born
On this date in 1951, Novelist, editor, and educator Terry McMillan was born on this day. Ms. McMillan will reach acclaim for her books "Mama",... Continue →
1948 - Ntozke Shange was born
On this date in 1948, Born Paulette Williams, she graduated from Barnard College in 1970, and later earned an MA from the University of Southern... Continue →
1945 - Actor, singer, athlete and activist, Paul Robeson, receives Spingarn Medal.
ON this date in 1945, Actor, singer, athlete and activist, Paul Robeson, receives Spingarn Medal, 1945
1926 - Singer Chuck Berry born
On this date in 1926, Rock and roll innovator Charles "Chuck" Edward Berry born in San Jose, California, and later taken to St. Louis Missouri, where... Continue →
1983 - Grenadian Prime Minister killed
On this date in 1983, Grenada's U.S. educated Prime Minister Maurice Bishop killed in a military coup.
1960 - John F. Kennedy expressed his concern
ON this date in 1960, John F. Kennedy, Democratic presidential candidate, called Mrs. Martin Luther King Jr. and expressed his concern about the... Continue →
1943 - Theater Guild presentation of Othello
On this date in 1943, Theater Guild presentation of Othello opened at Shubert Theater with Paul Robeson in title role. Production ran for 296... Continue →
1936 - Johnetta Betsch Cole was born on this day.
On this date in 1936, Johnetta Betsch Cole was born on this day.
1870 - First Blacks elected to the House of Representatives.
On this date in 1870, First Blacks elected to the House of Representatives. Black Republicans won three of the four congressional seats in South... Continue →
1870 - Republicans swept South Carolina elections
On this date in 1870, Republicans swept South Carolina elections with a ticket of six whites and two Blacks: Alonzo Ransier, lieutenant governor;... Continue →
1859 - Co-founder of Virginia State College, Byrd Prillerman, born.
On this date in 1859, Co-founder of Virginia State College, Byrd Prillerman, born.
1904 - Enolia Pettigen McMillan born
Born October 20, 1904 in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, Enolia Pettigen McMillan became the first female president of the National Association for the... Continue →
1898 - North Carolina Mutual and Provident Insurance founded.
On this date in 1898, North Carolina Mutual and Provident Insurance Company founded by John Merrick and associates in Durham, North Carolina as the... Continue →
1994 - Dexter King named Chief Executive of SCLC
ON this date in 1994, Dexter Scott King, youngest son of Martin Luther King Jr and Coretta Scott King, is named head of Southern Christian Leadership... Continue →
1994 - Charles Edward Anderson dies.
On this date in 1994, Charles Edward Anderson the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in Meteorology; dies. In 1960, Charles Edward Anderson... Continue →
1989 - Bertram M. Lee and Peter C.B. Bynoe purchase the Denver Nuggets
On this date in 1989, Bertram M. Lee and Peter C.B. Bynoe sign an agreement to purchase the National Basketball Association's Denver Nuggets for $54... Continue →
1980 - Valerie Thomas invents the illusion transmitter
On this date in 1980, Valerie Thomas invented the illusion transmitter. Patent #US4229761.
1979 - The Black Fashion Museum is opened in Harlem.
On this date in 1979, The Black Fashion Museum is opened in Harlem by Lois Alexander to highlight the achievements and contributions of African... Continue →
1950 - Earl Lloyd, First to play in NBA game.
On this date in 1950, The first NBA Black Assistant Coach and first Black chief scout, Earl Lloyd, becomes the first Black person to play in an NBA... Continue →
1917 - Dizzy Gillespie born.
On this date in 1917, Dizzy Gillespie, trumpeter & pioneer of 'behop' jazz was born.
1872 - John H Conyers enters Naval Academy.
On this date in 1872, John H Conyers becomes the first African American to enter the US Naval Academy.
1865 - George William Gordon, is unfairly arrested and sentence to death.
On this date in 1865, Jamaican national hero, George William Gordon, is unfairly arrested and sentenced to death.
1963 - Some 225,000 students boycotted Chicago schools.
ON this date in 1963, some 225,000 students boycotted Chicago schools in Freedom Day protest of de facto segregation.
1955 - The first black post office open, Atlanta Georgia
On this date in 1955, the first black post office open, Atlanta Georgia.
1953 - Clarence S. Green becomes the first African-American certified in neurological surgery
ON this date in 1953, Clarence S. Green becomes the first African-American certified in neurological surgery.
1950 - Charles Cooper joins the NBA and becomes one of the first Blacks to play in NBA.
On this date in 1950, Charles Cooper joins the NBA and becomes one of the first Blacks to play in an NBA game.
1950 - Nat Clifton joins the NBA and becomes one of the first Blacks to play in NBA.
On this date in 1950, Nat Clifton joins the NBA and becomes one of the first Blacks to play in an NBA game.
1906 - 3000 Blacks demonstrated and rioted in Philadelphia.
On this date in 1906, 3000 blacks demonstrated and rioted in Philadelphia to protest a theatrical presentation of Thomas Dixon's The Clansman. 62... Continue →
1940 - Edson Arantes do Nascimento (Pele) was born
ON this date in 1940, in Tres Coracoes, in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, generally known as Pelé, is born.
1911 - Urban League Formed
On this date in 1911, Three organizations the Committee for Improving the Industrial Conditions of Negroes in New York, the Committee on Urban... Continue →
1775 - Continental Congress approved resolution barring African Americans from the army.
On this date in 1775, Continental Congress approved resolution barring African Americans from the army. Although, throughout the war, Washington, the... Continue →
1994 - Dorothy Porter Wesley presented Charles Frankel Award.
On this date in 1994, William Jefferson Clinton presented her with the Charles Frankel Award from the National Endowment for the Humanities
1948 - Activist Kweisi Mfume born
On this date in 1948, Rep. Kweisi Mfume who was born Frizzell Gray in Baltimore, Maryland. In 1996 Mfume became president of the NAACP.
1935 - Langston Hughes' "Mulatto" opens
Ot this date in 1935, the first Black-authored play to become a long-run Broadway hit, Langston Hughes' "Mulatto" opens, 1935
1935 - Italy invaded Ethiopia
On this date in 1935, Italy invaded Ethiopia. American Blacks held mass meetings of protest and raised funds for the Ethiopian defenders.
1923 - Department of Labor said some 500,000 Blacks leave South.
On this date in 1923, Department of Labor said some 500,000 Blacks had left the South in the preceding twelve months.
1892 - In New Orleans, 25,000 Black workers strike.
On this date in 1892, In New Orleans, 25,000 Black workers strike.
1988 - Two units of the Ku Klux Klan and eleven individuals ordered to pay $ 1 million.
On this date in 1988, two units of the Ku Klux Klan and eleven individuals are ordered to pay $ 1 million to African Americans who were attacked... Continue →
1976 - Gov. George Wallace grants a full pardon
On this date in 1976, Gov. George Wallace granted a full pardon to Clarence ("Willie") Norris, the last known survivor of the nine Scottsboro Boys... Continue →
1958 - Ten thousand students march
On this date in 1958, ten thousand students, led by Jackie Robinson, Harry Belfonte and A. Phillip Randolph, participated in the Youth March for... Continue →
1940 - Committee on the Participation of Negroes meet President Roosevelt.
On this date in 1940, Committee on the Participation of Negroes in the National Defense Program met with President Roosevelt.
1940 - Benjamin O Davis becomes the first Black general in US Army
On this date in 1940, Benjamin O Davis becomes the first Black general in US Army.
1925 - Emmett W. Chappelle born
ON this date in 1925, Emmett W. Chappelle was born in Phoenix, Arizona. He received a Bachelor of Science in 1950 from the University of California,... Continue →
1915 - Attorney James L. Curtis named minister of Liberia
On this date in 1915, Attorney James L. Curtis named minister of Liberia.
1892 - Lincoln .F. Brown patents bridle bit
On this date in 1892, Lincoln F. Brown patents Bridle bit. Patent No. 484,994
1977 - Dr. Clifford R. Wharton Jr. named chancellor
On this date in 1977, Dr. Clifford R. Wharton Jr. named chancellor of the State University of New York.
1934 - Charles H. Houston, named director of the NAACP legal campaign.
ON this date in 1934, at a New York City conference, representatives of the NAACP and the American Fund for Public Service planned a coordinated... Continue →
1921 - Solomon Porter Hood named minister to Liberia
On this date in 1921, Solomon Porter Hood named minister to Liberia.
1876 - President sent federal troops to South Carolina
On this date in 1876, President sent federal troops to South Carolina.
1868 - White terrorists killed several Blacks
On this date in 1868, White terrorists killed several Blacks in St. Bernard Parish, near New Orleans.
1868 - B.F. Randolph assassinated.
On this dated in 1868, B.F. Randolph, state senator and chairman of the state Republic party, assassinated in daylight at Hodges Depot in Abbevile,... Continue →
1806 - Benjamin Banneker, inventor and scientist, dies
On this dated in 1806, Benjamin Banneker, inventor and scientist, dies at the age of 74. In 1753, he borrowed a pocket watch from a well-to-do... Continue →
1749 - British legalizes slavery in Georgia
On this date in 1749, British Parliament legalizes slavery in the colony known now as the state of Georgia.
1981 - Andrew Young elected mayor of Atlanta.
On this dated in 1981, Andrew Young, Former UN Ambassador, elected mayor of Atlanta.
1978 - President Carter signed Hawkins-Humphrey full
On this date in 1978, President Carter signed Hawkins-Humphrey full employment bill.
1960 - Martin Luther King Jr. released on bond
On this date in 1960, Martin Luther King Jr. released on bond from the Georgia State Prison in Reidsville. Political observers said the Kennedy call... Continue →
1954 - B.O. Davis Jr. became the first Black general
On this date in 1954, B.O. Davis Jr. became the first Black general in the U.S. Air Force.
1891 - P.B. downing patents Street Letter Drop Box
On this date in 1891, P. B. Downing's Street Letter Mail Box patented. Patent No. 462,096 and a patent #462,093 for the mailbox (letterbox).
1981 - Edward M. McIntrye elected Mayor of Augusta Georgia
On this date in 1981, Edward M. McIntrye elected first Black mayor of Augusta, Georgia.
1914 - Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, founded at Howard
On this date in 1914, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity incorporated,founded at Howard University.
1862 - First Kansas Colored Volunteers drove off superior force of rebels
On this date in 1862, First Kansas Colored Volunteers repulsed and drove off superior force of rebels at Island Mound, Missouri. This was the first... Continue →
1798 - Founder of The Underground Railroad, Levi Coffin was born
On this date in 1798, Founder of The Underground Railroad, Levi Coffin was born.
1994 - Pearl Primus dies
On this date in 1994, Pearl Primus dies. Primus, who founded her own dance company in 1946, was best known for her "primitive" dances. She was famed... Continue →
1981 - William O. Walker, Publisher of Cleveland Call and Post newspaper, dies
On this date in 1981, William O. Walker (85), publisher of the Cleveland Call and Post newspaper, dies. In 1932, Walker became the publisher and... Continue →
1969 - U.S. Supreme Court said school systems must end segregation.
On this date in 1969, U.S. Supreme Court said school systems must end segregation "at once" and "operate now and hereafter only unitary schools." In... Continue →
1947 - President's Committee on Civil Rights condemned racial injustices
On this date in 1947, President's Committee on Civil Rights condemned racial injustices in America when ity published the formal report, "To Secure... Continue →
1945 - Actress Melba Moore born
On this date in 1945, Actress Melba Moore was born in New York city.
1929 - Collapse of stock market and the beginning of the Great Depression.
On this date in 1929, the stock market collapsed bringing on the beginning of the Great Depression. By 1937, 26 percent of Black males were... Continue →
1924 - Dixie to Broadway, "the first real revue by
On this date in 1924, Dixie to Broadway, "the first real revue by Negroes," opened at Broadhurst Theater, New York City, with Florence Mills in... Continue →
1923 - Runnin' Wild opened at Colonial Theater, Broadway
On this date in 1923, Runnin' Wild opened at Colonial Theater, Broadway. Miller and Lyles Productions introduced Charleston to New York and the... Continue →
1989 - Advertising Executives Frank Mingo dies.
On this date in 1989, Frank Mingo, one of the pioneering advertising executives who specialized in targeting African American consumers, dies. He... Continue →
1979 - Richard Arrington was elected the first Black mayor of Birmingham, Alabama.
On this date in 1979, Richard Arrington was elected the first Black mayor of Birmingham, Alabama.
1976 - Reverend Joseph H. Evans elected president of the United Church of Christ.
On this date in 1976, Reverend Joseph H. Evans elected president of the United Church of Christ.
1974 - Muhammad Ali defeated George Foreman in Zaire
On this dated in 1974, Muhammad Ali defeated George Foreman for heavyweight boxing title in Zaire.
1966 - Black Panther Party Emerges
On this date in 1966, Huey Newton and Bobby Seale students at a California college create the Black Panther Party for Self Defense.
1954 - Defense Department eliminates segregated regiments.
On this dated in 1954, Defense Department announced elimination of all segregated regiments in the armed forces.
1831 - Nat Turner, leader of a slave revolt captured
On this date in 1831, Nat Turner is captured after his role in the Slave Revolt that took place in Southampton county, Virginia on August 21, 1831.
1969 - Race riot, Jacksonville, Florida
On this dated in 1969, a Race riot occurred in Jacksonville, Florida.
1945 - Educator, Booker T Washington, inducted into the Hall of Fame for Great Americans
On this date in 1945, Educator, Booker T Washington, inducted into the Hall of Fame for Great Americans.
1900 - Actor and singer, Ethel Waters was born.
On this dated in 1900, Actor and singer, Ethel Waters was born.
1893 - Football player, William Henry Lewis, named All-American.
On this date in 1893, Football player, William Henry Lewis, named All-American.
1820 - The Emancipator was published
On this dated in 1820, The "Emancipator," the first anti-slavery magazine, was issued monthly from April 30 to October 31, 1820. It was edited and... Continue →
1995 - South Africans voted in their first all-race local government elections.
On this date in 1995, South Africans voted in their first all-race local government elections, completing the destruction of the apartheid system.
1946 - Dr. Charles S. Johnson becomes president of Fisk University
On this date in 1964, Dr. Charles S. Johnson became the first Black president of Fisk University.
1942 - John H. Johnson published first issue of Negro Digest.
On this date in 1942, John H. Johnson published first issue of Negro Digest.
1927 - Death of dancer and singer Florence Mills.
On this date in 1927, Dancer and singer Florence Mills (32) dies in New York City.
1910 - Activist, WEB Dubois, begins publication of the NAACP monthly magazine, Crisis.
ON this dated in 1910, Activist, WEB Dubois, begins publication of the NAACP monthly magazine, Crisis.
1898 - C.W. Allen patents table (self-leveling)
ON this date in 1898, C. W. Allen Self-leveling table. Patent No.613,436
1890 - Mississippi Plan disenfranchises Blacks
On this dated 1890, African-Americans are disenfranchised. The Mississippi Plan, approved on November 1, used literacy and "understanding" tests to... Continue →
1976 - Jimmy Carter Elected President
On this date in 1976, Jimmy Carter, former governor of Georgia, elected president with strong support from Black voters.
1976 - Black congressmen reelected
On this date in 1976, Seventeen Black congressmen reelected.
1954 - Dr.Theodore K. Lawles awarded Spingarn Medal.
On this date in 1954, Spingarn Medal presented to Dr. Theodore K. Lawles for his research on skin-related diseases.
1954 - Charles C. Diggs Jr.elected Michigan's first Black congressman.
On this date in 1954, Charles C. Diggs Jr. of Detroit elected Michigan's first Black congressman.
1930 - Haile Selassie crowned as Emperor of Ethiopia
On this dated in 1930, upon the death of the Ethiopian Empress Zawditu, Haile Selassie was crowned emperor of Ethiopia.
1903 - Business and civic leader, Maggie L Walker, opens the St Luke Penny Savings Bank
On this dated in 1903, Business and civic leader, Maggie L Walker, opens the St Luke Penny Savings Bank in Richmond, Virginia.
1893 - Daniel Alexander Payne dies.
On this date in 1893, Daniel A. Payne died. The sixth bishop of the American Methodist Episcopal Church, Payne was the first African American... Continue →
1889 - Meneeik II crowned
On this date in 1889 Menelik II was crowned Negusa-Nagast (King of Kings) of Abysinnia, Ethiopia. By 1899 Abysinnia had extended as far as Kenya in... Continue →
1880 - Republican James A. Garfield elected President
On this dated in 1880, Republican James A. Garfield elected president.
1875 - Democrats suppresses Black vote
On this date in 1875, Democrats suppressed Black vote by fraud and violence and carried Mississippi election. "The Mississippi Plan" staged riots,... Continue →
1983 - Jesse Jackson announces his candidacy for the office of President of the US
On this dated in 1983, Jesse Jackson announces his candidacy for the office of President of the US.
1981 - Thurman L Milnet was elected mayor of Hartford CT
On this date in 1981, Thurman L Milnet was elected mayor of Hartford CT, 1981
1981 - Black Mayors
On this date in 1981, Coleman Young reelected mayor of Detroit. Thurman L. Milner elected mayor of Hartford, Connecticut. James Chase elected mayor... Continue →
1979 - Klansmen fired on rally.
On this date in 1979, Klansmen fired on an anti-Klan rally in Greensboro, N.C., and killed five persons.
1974 - Harold Ford elected congressman from TN.
On this date in 1974, Harold Ford elected congressman from TN.
1970 - Twelve Blacks elected to the Ninety-Second Congress
On this date in 1970, Twelve Blacks elected to the Ninety-second Congress, including five new congressmen: Ralph H. Metcalfe (Ill.), George Collins... Continue →
1970 - Wilson Riles elected superintendent of Public instruction.
On this dated in 1970, Wilson Riles elected superintendent of Public instruction in California. Richard Austin elected secretary of state in Michigan.
1964 - First Black Elected to the General Assembly
On this date in 1964, A.W. Willis, Jr., was elected to the General Assembly making him the first black to hold this position.
1964 - John Conyers Jr. elected to House of Representatives from Detroit.
On this date in 1964, John Conyers Jr. elected to House of Representatives from Detroit.
1949 - Boxer Larry Holmes born
On this date in 1949, boxer Larry Holmes who began his career around age 13 was born. He would win the heavyweight title in 1970 and defend it some... Continue →
1945 - Paul Robeson presented Spingarn Medal
On this date in 1945, Spingarn Medal presented to Paul Robeson "for his outstanding achievement in the theater, on the concert stage, and in the... Continue →
1945 - Irving C. Mollison sworn in as U.S. Customs Court judge
ON this date in 1945, Irving C. Mollison, a Chicago Republican, sworn in as U.S. Customs Court judge in New York City.
1942 - William L. Dawson elected to Congress
On this date in 1942, William L. Dawson elected to Congress from Chicago.
1920 - Emperor Jones opened at the Provincetown Theater
On this date in 1920, Emperor Jones opened at the Provincetown Theater with Charles Gilpin in the title role.
1896 - Republican William McKinley defeats Democratic candidate William J. Bryan
On this date in 1896, Republican William McKinley defeated Democratic candidate William J. Bryan in presidential race.
1896 - South Carolina State College established
On this date in 1896, South Carolina State College established.
1896 - J.H. Hunter patents portable weighing scales
On this date in 1896, J. H. Hunter Portable Weighing Scales. Patent No. 570,533
1883 - Danville, VA coup and massacre
On this date in 1883, A political coup and a race riot occurred. White conservatives in Danville, Virginia, seized control of the local government,... Continue →
1874 - James Theodore Holly elected bishop of Haiti.
On this date in 1874, James Theodore Holly, a Black American who emigrated to Haiti in 1861, elected bishop of Haiti. He was consecrated in a... Continue →
1868 - First Black elected to Congress
On this date in 1868, First Black elected to Congress John W. Menard, defeated a white candidate, 5,107 to 2,833, in an election in Louisiana's... Continue →
1997 - Chuck E. Burris defeats Pat Wheeler
On this date in 1997, in a low-turnout election on this day, Chuck E. Burris defeated the incumbent, Pat Wheeler, by 278 votes to 260; a third... Continue →
1988 - The Martin L. King, Jr, federal Building is dedicated in Atlanta, Ga.
On this date in 1988, the Martin L. King, Jr, federal Building is dedicated in Atlanta, Ga. It is the first federal building in the nation to bear... Continue →
1981 - Zena Garrison becomes the 1st African American player to win the junior singles
On this date in 1981, Zena Garrison becomes the 1st African American player to win the junior singles tennis championship at Wimbledon, England
1978 - William Howard Jr. elected president of the National Council of Churches
On this date in 1978, William Howard Jr., elected president of the National Council of Churches.
1969 - Howard N. Lee and Charles Evers elected Mayors in NC and MIss
On this date in 1969, Howard N. Lee and Charles Evers are elected the first African American mayors of Chapel Hill, N.C. and Fayette, Miss.,... Continue →
1958 - World renowned opera singer, Shirley Verrett, makes her debut in New York City
ON this date in 1958, World renowned opera singer, Shirley Verrett, makes her debut in New York City, 1958
1953 - Hulan Jack was elected first Black Borough President of Manhattan, NYC.
On this date in 1953, Hulan Jack was elected first Black Borough President of Manhattan, NYC.
1949 - Actress Berlinda Tolbert Born
On this date in 1949, Berlinda Tolbert played Jenny Willis, Lionel Jefferson's girlfriend, on the long running comedy "The Jefferson."
1884 - Grover Cleveland Wins Election
On this date in 1884, Grover Cleveland won election and became the first Democratic president of the United States since the Civil War.
1879 - T Elkins puts patents on the refrigerating apparatus.
On this date in 1879, T. Elkins puts patents on the refrigerating apparatus. U.S. patent #221,222
1874 - Democrats swept off-years elections
On this date in 1874, Democrats swept off-years elections, winning a majority in the House of Representatives.
1872 - Three Blacks elected to major offices in Louisiana
On this date in 1872, Three Blacks elected to major offices in Louisiana elections: C.C Antoine, lieutenant governor; P.G. Deslonde, secretary of... Continue →
1872 - P.B.S. Pinchback was elected congressman at large
On this date in 1872, P.B.S. Pinchback was elected congressman at large. Pinckney Benton Stewart Pinchback (May 10, 1837 – December 21, 1921) was... Continue →
1872 - 4th black official wins election
On this date in 1872, Fourth Black official, Treasurer Antoine Dubuclet, won elections in 1870 and 1874.
1750 - Birth of Jean-Baptist-Point Du Sable
On this date in 1750, Jean-Baptist-Point Du Sable was a black pioneer, trader and founder of the settlement that later became the city of Chicago.
1986 - The governor of Arizona refuses to recognize Dr Martin Luther King Jr's birthday
On this date in 1986, The governor of Arizona refuses to recognize Dr Martin Luther King Jr's birthday as a national holiday.
1974 - George Brown was elected Lt Governor of Colorado.
On this date in 1974, George Brown was elected Lt Governor of Colorado, becoming one of the first two Black Lt Governors in the USA.
1974 - Harold Ford elected to House of Representatives.
ON this date in 1974, Harold Ford of Memphis elected to House of Representatives.
1974 - Spingarn Medal awarded to Damon J. Keith
On this date in 1974, Spingarn Medal awarded Damon J. Keith "in tribute to his steadfast defense of constitutional principles as revealed in a series... Continue →
1974 - California and Colorado Elect a Lt.Governor
On this date in 1974, State Sen. Mervyn M. Dymally elected lieutenant governor of California. State Sen. Georgia L. Brown elected lieutenant governor... Continue →
1974 - Walter E. Washington elected mayor of Washington D.C.
On this date in 1974, Walter E. Washington, became the first elected mayor of Washington, D.C., in the twentieth century.
1970 - North Carolina Riots
On this date in 1970, National Guard mobilized in Henderson, N.C., due to riots.
1968 - Shirley Chisholm becomes first Black woman to be elected to Congress
On this date in 1968, Shirley Chisholm becomes first Black woman to be elected to Congress, representing Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, NYC.
1968 - Black Men and Women Elected To Congress
On this date in 1968, a record number of Black congressmen and the first Black woman representative were elected to Congress. The nine Black... Continue →
1956 - Death of pianist Art Tatum
On this dated in 1956, pianist Art Tatum (46) dies in Los Angeles, California.
1935 - Courts order University to admit an African American
On this date in 1935, Maryland Court of Appeals ordered the University of Maryland to admit Donald Murray.
1917 - U.S. Supreme Court decision (Buchanan v. Warley) struck down.
ON this date in 1917, U.S. Supreme Court decision (Buchanan v. Warley) struck down Louisville, Ky., ordinance which required Blacks and whites to... Continue →
1917 - Emmett J. Scott, former secretary to Booker T. Washington, was appointed special assistant
ON this date in 1917, Emmett J. Scott, former secretary to Booker T. Washington, was appointed special assistant to the Secretary of War. His role... Continue →
1912 - Woodrow Wilson elected president
On this date in 1912, Woodrow Wilson elected president.
1867 - First Reconstruction constitutional convention
On this date in 1867, First Reconstruction constitutional convention (eighteen Blacks, ninety whites) opened in Montgomery, Alabama.
1862 - Frazier A Boutelle is commissioned as second lieutenant in the Fifth New York Calvary
On this date in 1862, Frazier A Boutelle is commissioned as second lieutenant in the Fifth New York Calvary.
1836 - Theo Wright becomes the first Black person to get a Theology Degree.
On this date in 1836, Theo Wright becomes the first Black person to get a Theology Degree in the US.
1990 - First Black Woman Mayor of Washington, D.C.
On this date in 1990, Sharon Pratt Dixon (now Kelly) was elected mayor of Washington, D.C., making this a first for a woman of any race.
1989 - Renowned attorney Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander dies.
On this date in 1989, Renowned attorney Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander dies in Philadelphia.
1976 - Benjamin Hooks named executive director of the NAACP.
On this date in 1976, Benjamin Hooks, Federal Communications Commission member, named to succeed Roy Wilkins as executive director of the NAACP.
1973 - Coleman Young was elected mayor of Detroit
On this date in 1973, Coleman Young was elected mayor of Detroit, becoming one of the first two Black mayors of city's with over a million citizens.
1973 - Spingarn Medal awarded to Wilson C. Riles
On this date in 1973, Spingarn Medal presented to Wilson C. Riles, superintendent of public instruction, California, "in recognition of the stature... Continue →
1973 - Superintendent of schools killed in ambush
ON this date in 1973, Marcus A. Foster, superintendent of schools in Oakland, Calif., killed in ambush after Board of Education meeting. Two members... Continue →
1968 - Election Results 1968
In one voting day, ninety-seven Blacks were elected to state legislatures, seven were elected to mayor, and four hundred to local governments in the... Continue →
1962 - A Day of Elections
On this date in 1962, Edward W. Brooke elected attorney general of Massachusetts. Gerald Lamb elected treasurer of Connecticut. Otis M. Smith elected... Continue →
1928 - Oscar DePriest elected to Seventy-first Congress
ON this date in 1928, Oscar DePriest elected to Seventy-first Congress from Illinois' First Congressional District (Chicago). He was the first... Continue →
1928 - Newspaper Founded
ON this date in 1928, the Atlanta Daily World founded by W.A. Scott Jr. The newspaper became a daily in 1933.
1928 - Spingarn Medal: Charles W. Chestnutt
On this date in 1928, Spingarn Medal presented to Charles W. Chestnutt, the first Black to receive widespread critical recognition as a novelist. He... Continue →
1920 - James Weldon Johnson becomes executive secretary of the NAACP
ON this date in 1920, James Weldon Johnson became the first Black executive secretary of the NAACP.
1920 - Spingarn Medal awarded W.E.B. DuBois
On this date in 1920, Spingarn Medal awarded to W.E.B. Du Bois for "the founding and calling of the Pan African Congress."
1906 - President Roosevelt ordered discharge
On this date in 1906, President Roosevelt ordered discharge of three companies of Twenty-fifth Regiment for alleged involvement in the Brownsville... Continue →
1901 - Juanita Hall, Singer, Actress is born
On this date in 1901, Juanita Long Hall was born in Keyport, New Jersey, and died February 29, 1968, in Bayshore, New York. This singer, actress, and... Continue →
1900 - Republican William McKinley defeated William Bryan
On this date in 1900, Republican William McKinley defeated William Bryan in presidential elections.
1900 - Famous Song composed
On this date in 1900, James Weldon Johnson and J. Rosamond Johnson composed "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing."
1888 - Republican Benjamin Harrison elected president
On this date in 1888, Republican Benjamin Harrison elected president.
1884 - Novelist and dramatist, William Wells Brown, dies.
On this date in 1884, Novelist and dramatist, William Wells Brown, dies.
1878 - William Stanley Braithwaite Born
ON this date in 1878, William Stanley Braithwaite was born. Called by W.E.B. Dubois "the most prominent critic of poetry in America" , William... Continue →
1868 - Jonathan Gibbs appointed secretary of state by the Florida governor.
On this date in 1868, Jonathan Gibbs, minister and educator, appointed secretary of state by the Florida governor.
1860 - Abraham Lincoln elected president
On this date in 1860, Abraham Lincoln elected president.
1858 - Samuel E. Cornish dies
On this date in 1858, Samuel E. Cornish died. Samuel Cornish was an American Presbyterian minister, abolitionist, publisher, and journalist. He was a... Continue →
1746 - Absalom Jones Born into Slavery
ON this date in 1746, Absalom Jones rose from slavery in Sussex, Delaware to become the first black Episcopal priest and principal founder of St.... Continue →
1971 - Prison rebellion, Rahway State Prison, New Jersey
On this date in 1971, a Prison rebellion occurred at Rahway State Prison, New Jersey.
1880 - Southern University established
On this date in 1880, Southern University established.
1880 - The Baptist Foreign Mission Convention Occurred
On this date in 18810, more than 150 delegates from Baptist Churches in eleven states organized the Baptist Foreign Mission Convention of the United... Continue →
1874 - Swails reelected
On this date in 1874, Stephen A Swails was reelected president pro tem of the senate.
1874 - Robert B. Elliott
On this date in 1874, Robert B. Elliott elected Speaker of the lower house of the South Carolina legislature.
1868 - Scott Joplin, the King of Ragtime, was born.
On this date in 1868, Scott Joplin, the King of Ragtime, was born in Texarkana, Texas. A skilled pianist and composer, Joplin started a 20-year... Continue →
1955 - Interstate Commerce Commission banned segregation
On this date in 1955, Interstate Commerce Commission banned segregation in buses and waiting rooms involved in interstate travel.
1949 - Spingarn Award presented to Ralph J. Bunche
On this date in 1949, Ralph J. Bunche received the Spingarn Medal for his contributions to the Myrdal study and his achievements as UN mediator of... Continue →
1949 - Hoping To End Segregation in St. Louis
On this date in 1949, CORE chapter pressed sit-in campaign designed to end segregation in downtown facilities in St. Louis.
1949 - Dancer Luther ("Bill") Robinson dies
On this date in 1949, dancer Luther ("Bill") Robinson (71) dies.
1970 - Death of B.O.Davis Sr.
On this date in 1970, B.O. Davis Sr. (93), first Black general, dies in Chicago.
1841 - Amistad survivors returned to Africa
On this date in 1841, Thirty-five Amistad survivors returned to Africa.
1970 - Pulitzer Prize and Spingarn Medal awarded
On this date in 1970, Charles Gordone awarded Pulitzer Prize for his play, No Place To Go. Painter Jacob Lawrence awarded Spingarn Medal "in tribute... Continue →
1911 - First Black Appointed to a Sub-Cabinet Post
ON this date in 1911, William Henry Lewis was appointed assistant attorney general of the United States by President William Howard Taft, making him... Continue →
1883 - Death of Sojourner Truth
On this date in 1883, abolitionist and orator, Sojourner Truth dies in Battle Creek, Michigan.
1872 - South Carolina General Assembly met in Columbia
On this date in 1872, South Carolina General Assembly met in Columbia Stephen A. Swails was elected president pro tem of the senate, and Samuel J.... Continue →
1872 - Macon B. Allen, first black lawyer
ON this date in 1872, Macon B. Allen was elected judge of the Inferior Court of Charleston. Allen, the first Black lawyer, thus became the second... Continue →
1957 - Federal troops left Little Rock
ON this date in 1957, Federal troops left Little Rock.
1957 - National Council of Negro Women
ON this date in 1957, Dorothy Height, YMCA official, elected president of the National Council of Negro Women.
1944 - Rep. Mickey Leland born
On this date in 1944, Rep. Mickey Leland, D-Texas, was born in Lubbock, Texas. Leland was killed when the plane in which he was a passenger crashed... Continue →
1942 - Jimi Hendrix born
On this date in 1942, Rock Musician Jimi Hendrix is born in Seattle, Washington.
1928 - Marjorie Joyner--patent for hair wave machine
On this date in 1928, Marjorie Joyner was issued a patent for a permanent wave machine which could wave the hair of both white and Black people. U.S.... Continue →
1895 - Alexandre Dumas dies
On this date in 1895, the French novelist and playwright Alexandre Dumas died.
1841 - Amistad Liberators set Sail
On this date in 1841, the liberators of the ship Amistad set sail for Africa aboard the Gentleman.
1997 - Death of Coleman Young
ON this date in 1997, former Detroit Mayor Coleman Young died on this day. He was 79 years old. Young became Detroit's first Black mayor and presided... Continue →
1961 - Ernie Davis became the first African American to win the Heisman Trophy.
On this date in 1961, Ernie Davis became the first African American to win the Heisman Trophy.
1960 - Death of Richard Nathaniel Wright
On this date in 1960, Richard Nathaniel Wright (52), author of "Native Son" and "Black Boy", dies in Paris, France. Richard Nathaniel Wright was an... Continue →
1949 - Dancer Bojangles dies
On this date in 1949, Tap dancer Bill "Bojangles" Robinson dies in New York city.
1929 - Berry Gordy, Motown Executive, born
ON this date in 1929, Motown recording executive Berry Gordy, Jr. born in Detroit, Michigan.
1871 - Ku Klux Klan trials began in Federal District
On this date in 1871, Ku Klux Klan trials began in Federal District Court in Columbia, South Carolina.
1753 - Soldier & patriot James Robinson is born.
On this date in 1753, Soldier & patriot James Robinson is born. When he won a medal for bravery at the Battle of Yorktown, he was promised his... Continue →
1961 - Freedom Riders attacked by white mob
On this date in 1961, Freedom Riders attacked by white mob at bus station in McComb, Miss., November 29-December 2.
1955 - Alice Childress becomes the first African American woman to receive an Obie Award
ON this date in 1955, Alice Childress becomes the first African American woman to receive an Obie Award for her play, "Trouble in Mind".
1919 - Pearl Primus is born
On this date in 1919, Pearl Primus is born. Blending African and Caribbean sources with American traditions of blues, jazz, and jitterbug, Pearl... Continue →
1780 - Black Slaves welcomed Into American Army
On this date after the winter of Valley Forge, Black slaves and free men were welcomed into the American Army. There were Black soldiers in the... Continue →
1758 - Baptizing of the First Two Known Converts
On this date in 1758, England John Wesley Baptized the first two known Black converts to the Methodism movement.
2001 - First Abiocor artificial heart recipient dies
On this date in 2001, Robert Tools, the first recipient of the Abiocor artificial heart, dies of multiple organ failure after suffering a stroke... Continue →
1981 - Four newcomers elected to Congress
ON this date in 1981, four newcomers elected to Congress: Mervyn Dymally (Calif.), Augustus Savage (ILL.), Harold Washington (Ill.) and George W.... Continue →
1981 - Spingarn Medal awarded to Coleman A. Young
On this date in 1981, Spingarn Medal awarded to Coleman A. Young "in recognition of his singular accomplishments as mayor of the City of Detroit."
1966 - Black Panther Party emerges
On this date in 1966, Huey Newton and Bobby Seale students at a California college create the Black Panther Party for Self Defense.
1965 - Judith Jamison makes her debut with Alvin Ailey's American Dance Theatre.
On this date in 1965, Judith Jamison makes her debut with Alvin Ailey's American Dance Theater.
1924 - Congresswoman, Shirley Chisholm was born.
On this date in 1924, Congresswoman, Shirley Chisholm was born.
1912 - Gordon Parks, filmmaker & photographer, was born
ON this date in 1912, Gordon Parks, filmmaker & photographer, was born
1889 - Curtain Rod Patented
On this date in 1889, S.R. Scottron patents curtain rod. U.S. Patent 481,720
1875 - Biscuit Cutter patented
On this date in 1875, A.P. Ashbourne patents biscuit cutter. US Patent #US170460 A
1869 - James Lynch elected secretary of state
On this date in 1869, James Lynch elected secretary of state in Mississippi election.
1992 - Pearl Stewart becomes editor of Oakland Tribune
On this date in 1992, Pearl Stewart becomes the first black woman editor of the "Oakland Tribune, which has a circulation of over 100,000.
1987 - James (Arthur) Baldwin dies
On this date in 1987, James Baldwin dies. James Baldwin was born on August 2, 1924, and educated in New York. His first novel, Go Tell It on the... Continue →
1944 - Korematsu v. United States
Korematsu v. United States (1944) Parties involved: Fred Korematsu, a twenty year old Japanese American who was born in Oakland, California decided... Continue →
1940 - Richard Pryor born
On this date in 1940, Richard Franklin Lennox Pryor III was born in Peoria, Illinois where he was raised by his grandmother in a brothel that she... Continue →
1935 - Singer Lou Rawls is born
On this date in 1935, Louis Allen Rawls AKA Lou Rawls born in Chicago. He is a three-time Grammy-winning singer and has been a popular black MOR... Continue →
1878 - Founder of the NAACP, Arthur Spingarn was born.
On this date in 1878, Founder of the NAACP, Arthur Spingarn was born.
1877 - Jonathan Jasper Wright resigns
On this date in 1877, Jonathan Jasper Wright was the first Black state supreme court justice. He resigned on this day from the state supreme court in... Continue →
1874 - T.J. Byrd patents rail car coupling
On this date in 1874, T.J. Byrd patents Car couplings. Patent# 157,370
1873 - Forty-third Congress (1873-75) Convened
ON this date in 1873, Forty-third Congress (1873-75) convened with seven Black congressmen: Richard H. Cain, Robert Brown Elliott, Joseph H. Rainey... Continue →
1873 - Mifflin Wister Gibb
On this date in 1873, Mifflin Wister Gibb elected city judge in Little Rock and became the first Black to hold such a position.
1873 - Institutions Of Higher Learning Founded
On this date in 1873, Bennett College, Wiley College, and Alabama State College were founded.
1862 - Compensation For States
On this date in 1862, President Lincoln, in message to Congress, recommended the use of federal bonds to provide compensation for states that... Continue →
1774 - Continental Congress
On this date in 1774, The Continental Congress will no longer allow the importation of slaves.
1641 - Colonies give Statutory Recognition
On this date in 1641, Massachusetts became the first colony to give statutory recognition to slavery. Other colonies followed: Connecticut 1650;... Continue →
1992 - Maya Angelou is asked to compose a poem for the inauguration of President Bill
ON this date in 1992, Maya Angelou is asked to compose a poem for the inauguration of President Bill Clinton
1989 - Dancer Alvin Ailey dies
On this date in 1989, Dancer and choreographer Alvin Ailey, founder 31 years earlier of the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater, dies.
1989 - Andre Ware of the University of Houston becomes the first African American quart
On this date in 1989, Andre Ware of the University of Houston becomes the first African American quarterback to win the Heisman Trophy.
1969 - M.V.B. Brown patents home security system
In 1969 Marie V. Brittan Brown designed a "Home Security System with Television Surveillance" for the homeowner to view the visitor on a television... Continue →
1968 - Dial Press publishes Frank Yerby's "Judas My Brother"
On this date in 1968, Dial Press publishes Frank Yerby's "Judas My Brother"
1953 - Dr. Rufus Clement elected to Atlanta Board of Education.
On this date in 1953, Dr. Rufus Clement, president of Atlanta University elected to Atlanta Board of Education.
1923 - Roland Hayes sings in the Symphony Hall
On this date in 1923, Roland Hayes became the first Black to sing in the Symphony Hall in Boston. The 1917 concert did not attract much public... Continue →
1922 - Congressman, Charles C Diggs was born.
On this date in 1922, Congressman Charles C Diggs was born.
1912 - Henry Armstrong, the only boxer to hold three boxing titles simultaneously, born
On this date in 1912, Henry Armstrong, the only boxer to hold three boxing titles simultaneously, is born in Columbus, Ohio
1895 - Charles Wesley born.
On this date in 1895, Charles Wesley, historian, educator, and administrator, was born on this day. His published works included, Neglected History,... Continue →
1895 - Fifty-fourth Congress (1895-97) convened
On this date in 1895, Fifty-fourth Congress (1895-97) convened. One Black congressman: George W. Murray, South Carolina.
1891 - Fifty-second Congress convened
On this date in 1891, Fifty-second Congress convened. One Black congressman: Henry P. Cheatham, North Carolina.
1891 - Institutions Of Higher Learning established
On this date in 1891, North Carolina A&T College, Delaware State College and West Virginia State College established.
1891 - Historian, Charles Harris Wesley was born
ON this date in 1891, Historian, Charles Harris Wesley was born.
1884 - Granville T. Woods patents improved telephone transmitter.
On this date in 1884, Granville T. Woods patented his first electric device, an improved telephone transmitter.
1982 - Hearns wins WBC Junior Middleweight Title
On this date in 1982, Thomas "Hit Man" Hearns wins the WBC Junior Middleweight title. This is one of five weight classes that he has won a boxing... Continue →
1970 - First Black Miss World
On this date in 1970, the first Black Miss World was Jennifer Josephine Hosten who won the honor on this day.
1964 - J.Raymond Jones elected leader of New York Democratic organization.
On this date in 1964, J. Raymond Jones elected leader of New York Democratic organization (Tammany Hall).
1964 - Academy Award-Sidney Poitier
On this date in 1964, Academy Award for best actor of the year presented (April 13) to Sidney Poitier for his performance in Lilies of the Field.
1964 - Spingarn Medal awarded to Roy Wilkins
On this date in 1964, Spingarn Medal presented to NAACP executive secretary Roy Wilkins for his contribution to "the advancement of the American... Continue →
1964 - Independence Bank of Chicago organized
On this date in 1964, Independence Bank of Chicago organized.
1951 - Monitor Compliance with Anti-Discrimination
On this date in 1951, President Truman named committee to monitor compliance with anti-discrimination provisions in U.S. government contracts and... Continue →
1922 - Ralph Gardner born.
On this date in 1922, Ralph Gardner was born on this day in Cleveland, Ohio. He was a pioneer chemist whose research into plastics led to the... Continue →
1911 - Educator Helen Gray Edmonds is born.
On this date in 1911, Educator Helen Gray Edmonds is born in Lawrenceville, Va
1883 - Forty-eighth Congress (1883-85) convened.
ON this date in 1883, Forty-eighth Congress (1883-85) convened, Two Blacks representatives, James E. O'Hara, North Carolina; Robert Smalls, South... Continue →
1867 - Virginia constitutional convention
On this date in 1867, Virginia constitutional convention (twenty-five Blacks, eighty whites) met in Richmond. Because of Political and legal... Continue →
1866 - John S. Rock died.
On this date in 1866, John S. Rock, lawyer and dentist died on this day. He became the first Black to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court in 1865.
1865 - Selection of the first Inter-racial jury is formed.
ON this date in 1865, Selection of the first Inter-racial jury is formed.
1864 - Largest All-Black Unit established
On this date in 1864, Twenty-fifth Corps, largest all-Black unit in history of U.S. Army, established in Army of the James.
1843 - The Society of Colored People in Baltimore
ON this date in 18943, the Society of Colored People in Baltimore is the first Black Catholic association whose documentation has been preserved.... Continue →
1969 - Moneta Sleet Jr. awarded Pulitzer Prize
ON this date in 1969, Pulitzer Prize for photography awarded to Moneta Sleet Jr. of Ebony magazine. He was the first Black male cited by the Pulitzer... Continue →
1969 - Spingarn Medal awarded to Clarence Mitchell Jr.
On this date in 1969, Clarence Mitchell Jr., director of the Washington Bureau of the NAACP, awarded the Spingarn Medal "for the pivotal role... Continue →
1927 - Spingarn Medal Awarded awarded to Anthony Overton
On this date in 1927, Spingarn Medal awarded to Anthony Overton, publisher, insurance executive and cosmetics manufacturer, for his achievements as a... Continue →
1927 - Duke Ellington opened at the Cotton Club
On this date in 1927, Duke Ellington opened at the Cotton Club in Harlem. In 1923, Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington first began to make his mark in... Continue →
1915 - Ku Klux Klan received charter from Fulton County.
On this date in 1915, Ku Klux Klan received charter from Fulton County, Ga., Superior Court. Modern Klan spread to Alabama and other Southern state... Continue →
1915 - A Demonstration Led by NAACP
On this date in 1915, the NAACP led protest demonstrations against the showing of the movie Birth of a Nation. The racism that African Americans... Continue →
1909 - The New York newspaper Amsterdam News is founded.
On this date in 1909, The New York newspaper Amsterdam News is founded. The year 1909 was an eventful one for African Americans: W. E. B. Du Bois and... Continue →
1906 - First Black Greek-Letter Organiation
On this date in 1906, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was founded on the campus of Cornell University in Ithaca, New York by seven college men who... Continue →
1895 - South Carolina Constitutional Convention adopted
On this date in 1895, South Carolina Constitutional Convention adopted new constitution with "understanding clause" designed to eliminate Black... Continue →
1833 - Anti-Slavery Society started
On this date in 1833, the American Anti-Slavery Society organized. The Anti-Slavery Movement began in Europe during the 1770s and rapidly spread to... Continue →
1807 - Death of Prince Hall
On this date in 1807, Death of Prince Hall, activist and Masonic leader, in Boston. Born in the British West Indies, Prince Hall migrated to Boston... Continue →
1783 - Samuel " Black Sam" Fraunces
ON this date in 1783, George Washington gives his farewell address to his troops at Fraunces Tavern in NYC owned by ,Samuel " Black Sam" Fraunces a... Continue →
1957 - N.Y. against racial discrimination
On this date in 1957, New York became the first city to legislate against racial or religious discrimination in housing market with adoption of Fair... Continue →
1957 - Martin Luther King Jr. awarded Spingarn Medal
On this date in 1957, Martin Luther King Jr. awarded Spingarn Medal for his leadership of the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
1955 - Spingarn Medal awarded to Carl Murphy
On this date in 1955, Carl Murphy, publisher of the Baltimore Afro-American, awarded Spingarn Medal for his contributions as a publisher and civil... Continue →
1955 - Historic bus boycott began in Montgomery
On this date in 1955, Historic bus boycott began in Montgomery. At a mass meeting at the Holt Street Baptist Church Martin Luther King Jr. was... Continue →
1946 - President Truman created Committee on Civil Rights
On this date in 1946, President Truman created Committee on Civil Rights by Executive Order No. 9808. Two Blacks Attorney Sadie M. Alexander and... Continue →
1946 - Spingarn Medal presented to Thurgood Marshall
On this date in 1946, Spingarn Medal presented to Thurgood Marshall, director of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, "for his distinguished... Continue →
1946 - Executive Order 9808
On this date in 1946, in the aftermath of World War II, mob violence and lynching of Black Americans, in conjunction with the continuing controversy... Continue →
1935 - Council of Negro Women
On this date in 1935, Educator, Mary McLeod Bethune, founds National Council of Negro Women.
1935 - Langston Hughes' Play runs on Broadway
On this date in 1935, Langston Hughes's play, The Mulatto, began a long run on Broadway.
1935 - Music Band Success
Swing Age began with the commercial success of big bands. The decade of the thirties was the heyday for big bands of Chick Webb, Andy Kirk, Cab... Continue →
1935 - Spingarn Award to Mary Mcleod Bethune
On this date in 1935, Mary McLeod Bethune awarded Spingarn Medal for her work as founder-president of Bethune Cookman College and her national... Continue →
1932 - Reverend Jame Cleveland born
Born on this day in Chicago, Illinois, James Cleveland, the King of Gospel, first sang gospel under the direction of Thomas Dorsey at the Pilgrim... Continue →
1932 - Singer, "Little Richard", born
On this date in 1932, Singer, "Little Richard", was born
1918 - Charity Earley born
Born on this day, Charity Earley became the first Black commissioned officer in the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps in 1942.
1895 - Elbert Frank Cox born
On this date in 1895, Elbert Frank Cox was born on this day in Evansville, Indiana. He became the first Black to hold a doctorates degree in... Continue →
1881 - Forty-seventh Congress (1881-83) Convened
On this date in 1881, Forty-seventh Congress (1881-83) convened. Two Black congressmen, Robert Smalls, South Carolina; John R. Lynch, Mississippi.
1870 - Alexandre Dumas(Pere), French novelist and dramatist, dies.
On this date in 1870, Alexandre Dumas(Pere), French novelist and dramatist, dies.
1870 - Cowboy Bill Pickett was born
Born this day in Travis County, Texas, only 5'7" and 145 pounds, Pickett was one of the toughest cowboys. Invented unique form of steer wrestling... Continue →
1832 - Sarah Gorham was born
Born on this day, Sarah Gorham was the first woman appointed by the AME Church in 1888, to serve as a missionary to any foreign country.
1784 - Phyllis Wheatley Dies
On this date in 1784, Phyllis Wheatley, the first African-American author to be published in book form, dies in poverty at the age of thirty-one.... Continue →
1775 - Salem Poor recognized
Salem Poor was a Black hero of the Revolutionary War. He distinguished himself so in battle that fourteen American officers praised him before... Continue →
1997 - First Black Mayor of Houston, Texas
On this date in 1997, Lee Brown became Houston's first black mayor narrowly defeating businessman Rob Mosbacher.
1997 - Grambling coach,Eddie Robinson who is the winningest coach in college football
On this date in 1997, Grambling coach,Eddie Robinson who is the winningest coach in college football history, coaches his last game.
1981 - Grace Ann Bumbry
On this date in 1981, Grace Ann Bumbry participated in a benefit concert put on by Artists to End Hunger.
1971 - Lewis Franklin Powell confirmed as Supreme Court Justice
On this date in 1971, Lewis Franklin Powell confirmed as Supreme Court justice despite opposition of civil rights organizations.
1961 - Dr. Frantz O. Fanon author, dies
On this date in 1961, Dr. Frantz O. Fanon author, dies in Washington, D.C.. He penned "Black Skins, White Masks", and "Wretched of the Earth"
1960 - pledges of nondiscrimination
On this date in 1960, In Tucson, 500 store owners, Arizona signed pledges of nondiscrimination.
1949 - Blues legend Huddie "Leadbelly" Ledbetter, dies
On this date in 1949, Blues legend Huddie "Leadbelly" Ledbetter, dies
1892 - Theodore Lawless born.
On this date in 1892, medicine pioneer, Theodore Lawless, was born.
1890 - Sgt. Thomas Shaw earned Congressional Medal of Honor.
On this date in 1890, Sgt. Thomas Shaw earned Congressional Medal of Honor.
1875 - Forty-fourth Congress (1875-77) Convened
On this date in 1875, Forty-fourth Congress (1875-77) convened with historic high of eight Blacks. One U.S. senator, Blanche K. Bruce, Mississippi.... Continue →
1871 - P.B.S. Pinchback elected president
On this date in 1871, P.B.S. Pinchback is elected president pro tem of the Louisiana Senate and acting lieutenant governor. He is the first African... Continue →
1869 - National Black Labor convention
On this date in 1869, National Black labor convention met in Washington.
1869 - James H. Harris Elected President
On this date in 1869, James M. Harris of North Carolina elected president.
1869 - Colleges and Universities Founded
On this date in 1869, Clark, Claflin, Dillard and Tougaloo Colleges and universities were founded.
1981 - John Jacobs named president of the National Urban League.
On this date in 1981, John Jacobs is named president of the National Urban League.
1972 - W.Sterling Cary elected president of the Nation Council of Churches.
ON this date in 1972, W. Sterling Cary elected president of the Nation Council of Churches.
1942 - Reginald F. Lewis born
On this date in 1942, Reginald F. Lewis was born in Baltimore, Maryland. He received his law degree from Harvard Law School in 1968. He was a partner... Continue →
1941 - Lester Granger named executive director of the National Urban League.
On this date in 1941, Lester Granger named executive director of the National Urban League.
1941 - Spingarn Award awarded to Richard Wright
On this date in 1941, the Spingarn Medal was presented to novelist Richard Wright, "one of the most powerful of contemporary writer," for "his... Continue →
1941 - Dorie Miller Messman on USS Arizona
On this date in 1941, Dorie Miller of Waco, Texas, messman on USS Arizona, manned machine gun during Pearl Harbor attacks and downed four planes. He... Continue →
1931 - Founder of Pro-Line was born
On this adte in 1931, Comer Cottrell, founder and president of Pro-Line Corporation (1970), the largest African American owned business in the... Continue →
1895 - Sir Milton Margai, first Prime Minister of Sierra Leone, was born
On this date in 1895, Sir Milton Margai, first Prime Minister of Sierra Leone, is born
1885 - Forty-ninth Congress (1885-87) convened
On this date in 1885, Forty-ninth Congress (1885-87) convened. Two Black congressmen: James E. O'Hara, North Carolina; Robert Smalls, South Carolina.
1874 - Massacre in Mississippi
On this date in 1874, White Democrats killed seventy-five Republicans in massacre at Vicksburg, Mississippi.
1984 - The first nationally broadcast telethon for the United Negro College fund is held
On this date in 1984, The first nationally broadcast telethon for the United Negro College fund is held and raises 14.1 million.
1953 - Hulan Jack sworn in a Manhattan Borough president.
On this date in 1953, Hulan Jack sworn in a Manhattan Borough president.
1953 - Springarn Medal awarded to Paul R. Williams
On this date in 1953, the Spingarn Medal was presented to Paul R. Williams for his achievements as an architect.
1935 - Marian Anderson's Town Hall Debut
On this date in 1935, Marian Anderson made her Town Hall debut in New York. Her performance was described by Howard Taubman, the New York Times... Continue →
1930 - Odetta Felious Gordon born
On this date in 1930, Odetta Felious Gordon, the folk singer and activist known as "Odetta" is born on this day in Birmingham, Alabama.
1900 - Selma Burke was born
On this date in 1900, Sculptor and educator Selma Burke was born on this day in Mooresville, North Carolina. She is commissioned to create a profile... Continue →
1871 - Founder of the PTA in North Carolina
On this date in 1871, Annie Wealthy Holland was born, as an educator she founded the Parent Teachers Association (PTA) in North Carolina.
1862 - Watch Night
On this date in 1862, Residents of Rochester, N.Y., joined Frederick Douglass in a vigil in anticipation of the Emancipation Proclamation, which went... Continue →
1775 - The Authorizing of enlistment of free blacks
ON this date in 1775, alarmed by impact of the Dunmore proclamation, Washington reversed himself and authorized the enlistment of free Blacks.
1960 - Two U.S. courts issued temporary injunctions
On this date in 1960, Two U.S. courts issued temporary injunctions to prevent eviction of about seven hundred Black sharecroppers in Haywood and... Continue →
1960 - Spingarn Medal awarded to Langston Hughes
On this date in 1960, Poet Langston Hughes presented the Spingarn Medal and cited as "The poet laureate of the Negro race."
1929 - Chicago Picketing
ON this date in 1929, "Don't Buy Where You Can't Work" campaign began in Chicago with picketing of Chain stores on South Side, fall. The campaign... Continue →
1929 - Spingarn Award to Mordecai W. Johnson
On this date in 1929, Mordecai W. Johnson received Spingarn Medal for his work as the first Black president of Howard University.
1928 - Bo Diddley was born.
On this date in 1928, Bo Diddley was born Ellas Bates on a small farm near the town of McComb, Mississippi, USA, in rural Pike County, close to the... Continue →
1892 - Physician Dr. Miles V. Lynk, publishes the first Black medical journal.
On this date in 1892, Physician, Dr. Miles V. Lynk, publishes the first Black medical journal.
1842 - Josiah T. Walls was born.
Born on this day in Winchester, VA, Josiah T. Walls waslater elected to the U.S. Congress for the state of Florida.
1917 - Thomas Bradley was born
On this date in 1917, Thomas Bradley was born in Calvert, Texas and went on to become mayor of Los Angeles by winning 56% of the vote.
1987 - Kurt Schmoke becomes the first African American mayor of Baltimore, Maryland
On this date in 1987, Kurt Schmoke becomes the first African American mayor of Baltimore, Maryland.
1972 - Death of Rep. George Collins
On this date in 1972, Rep. George Collins (47) died in anairplane crash, near Midway Airport, Chicago. Atty. Jewel Lafontant named deputy solicitor... Continue →
1936 - Michigan Chronicle founded.
On this date in 1936, Michigan Chronicle founded by Louis E. Martin.
1936 - Spingarn Metal awarded to John Hope
On this date in 1936, Spingarn Medal presented to John Hope posthumously for his achievement as president of Morehouse College and for his creative... Continue →
1936 - NAACP filed first
ON this date in 1936, the NAACP filed first suit in campaign to equalize the salaries of Black and white teachers.
1933 - Flip Wilson born
On this date in 1933, Clerow (Flip) Wilson was, Wilson was the tenth in a family of twenty-four children, eighteen of whom survived.
1863 - Proclamation on Amnesty and Reconstruction
On this day, President Lincoln issued his Proclamation on Amnesty and Reconstruction for the restoration of the Confederate states into the Union. He... Continue →
1850 - Lucy Ann Stanton
ON this date in 18250, Lucy Ann Stanton became he first woman to graduate college. She completed the two-year ladies' course and received the... Continue →
1977 - Karen Farmer becomes first African American member of the Daughters of the American Revolution
ON this date in 1977, Karen Farmer becomes the first African American member of the Daughters of the American Revolution when she traces her ancestry... Continue →
1918 - George H. White dies
On this date in 1918, George H. White (66) last of the post Reconstruction congressman, Philadelphia dies.
1918 - William Stanley Braithwaite awarded Spingarn Medal
ON this date in 1918, Spingarn Medal awarded to William Stanley Braithwaite, poet, literary critic and editor, for distinguished achievement in... Continue →
1905 - Famed jazz musician and father of modern jazz piano, Earl "Fatha" Hines was born
On this date in 1905, Famed jazz musician and father of modern jazz piano, Earl "Fatha" Hines was born
1897 - C.V. Rickey patents Fire Escape bracket
On this date in 1897, C. V. Rickey, patents Fire Escape Bracket, Patent No. 596,427
1829 - Elizabeth "Mumbet" Freeman, dies.
On this date in 1829, Elizabeth "Mumbet" Freeman, dies. Born into slavery, she ran away form her owners after mistreatment by her master's wife. She... Continue →
1816 - American Colonization Society organized
On this date in 1816, the American Colonization Society was organized in hall of the House of Representatives.
1956 - Federal Judge Dozier Devane grants injunction
On this date in 1956, Federal Judge Dozier Devane granted temporary injunction restraining city officials from interfering with integration of... Continue →
1956 - Spingarn Medal awarded to Jackie Robinson
On this date in 1956, the Spingarn Medal awarded Jack Roosevelt ("Jackie") Robinson, first Black in the major leagues, for his conduct on and off the... Continue →
1941 - Pioneer of blood plasma research, Dr Charles Richard Drew, establishes blood bank
ON this date in 1941, Pioneer of blood plasma research, Dr Charles Richard Drew, establishes a pioneer blood bank in New York City.
1939 - John Amos born.
On this date in 1939, John Amos, actor, made famous in "Good Times" television program was born.
1904 - Negro Year Book
On this date in 1904, Monroe Nathan Work marries Florence Evelyn Hendrickson. Greatly assisted by his wife, Work would publish "The Negro Year Book",... Continue →
1892 - First African American Intercollegiate football
On this date in 1892, Livingstone and Biddle College (now Johnson C. Smith) play the first African American intercollegiate football game.
1873 - William A. Harper was born
On this date in 1873, William A. Harper, student of Henry O. Tanner at the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the most gifted African American artist... Continue →
1956 - Birmingham Blacks began mass defiance of Jim Crow bus laws.
On this date in 1956, Birmingham Blacks began mass defiance of Jim Crow bus laws.
1931 - Lonnie Elder born.
On this date in 1931, Lonnie Elder, author and playwright (Ceremonies in Dark Old Men) and screenwriter (Sounder, A Woman Called Moses) was born
1924 - First Black to Perform on the Grand Ole Opry
On this date in 1924, DeFord Bailey, Sr., a harmonica player, became the first Black to perform on the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee.
1908 - Jackson Johnson defeated Tommy Burns
On this date in 1908, Jackson Johnson defeated Tommy Burns in Sydney, Australia, for the heavyweight Championship. Burns will later say of his loss,... Continue →
1894 - Jean Toomer born.
On this date in 1894, Jean Toomer, grandson of P.B.S. Pinchback, author of Cane was born
1849 - David Ruggles dies
On this date in 1849, David Ruggles dies in Northampton, Mass. Often called the first African American bookseller for his bookstore established in... Continue →
1848 - William and Ellen Craft escaped from slavery
On this date in 1848, William and Ellen Craft escaped from slavery in Georgia. Mrs. Craft impersonated a slave holder and her husband, William,... Continue →
1881 - Exodus of five thousand Blacks from Edgefield County, South Carolina
On this date in 1881, Exodus of five thousand Blacks from Edgefield County, South Carolina. Migrants, protesting exploitation and violence, settled... Continue →
1881 - Segregation Movements
On this date in 1881, Tennessee started modern segregation movement with Jim Crow railroad car and was followed by Florida (1887), Mississippi... Continue →
1881 - United Order of True Reformer established
On this date in 1881, United Order of True Reformer established.
1853 - Octavia R. Albert born.
Born on this day in Oglethorpe, GA, Octavia R. Albert's, The House of Bondage is published; the book consists of seven slave narratives collected by... Continue →
1863 - Naval Medal of Honor awarded to Robert Blake
On this date in 1863, Robert Blake, powder boy aboard the USS Marbelhead, was the first Black awarded the Naval Medal of Honor "for conspicuous... Continue →
1815 - Henry Highland Garnet born a slave
On this date in 1815, Henry Highland Garnet, minister, abolitionist and diplomat, born a slave in Kent County, Maryland.
1943 - W.E.B. Du Bois elected to the National Institute of Arts and Letters
On this date in 1943, W.E.B. Du Bois was the first Black elected to the National Institute of Arts and Letters.
1898 - Dr. Chancellor Williams born
On this date in 1898, Historian and author of Destruction of Black Civilization, Dr. Chancellor Williams born
1883 - Arthur Wergs Mitchell born
On this date in 1883, Arthur Wergs Mitchell, 1st African American to be elected to congress, was born in Lafayette, Alabama.
1873 - Charles Lenox Remond dies
On this date in 1873, Abolitionist Charles Lenox Remond dies. He was the first Black lecturer employed by the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society.
1990 - Politics
On this date in 1990, David Norman Dinkins began his first working day as mayor of New York City with a 7:00 a.m. appearance on NBC-TV's 'Today'... Continue →
1977 - Erroll Garner, pianist and composer, dies.
On this date in 1977, Erroll Garner, pianist and composer, dies. He was considered the best selling jazz pianist in the world, most famous for the... Continue →
1970 - United States population: 293,200,000
On this date in 1970, United States population: 293,200,000. Black population: 22,600,000 (11.1 per cent). Dr. Benjamin E. Mays, President-Emeritus,... Continue →
1970 - Clifton Reginald Wharton becomes the new president of Michigan State University.
On this date in 1970, Clifton Reginald Wharton becomes the new president of Michigan State University.
1968 - Actor Cuba Gooding Jr. born
On this date in 1968, actor Cuba Gooding Jr, born , Bronx, New York.
1965 - Voter registration drive started in Selma, Alabama.
ON this date in 1965, voter registration drive, led by Martin Luther King Jr., started in Selma, Alabama.
1915 - Historian, John Hope Franklin was born.
On this date in 1915, Historian John Hope Franklin was born.
1898 - Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander born
On this date in 1898, Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander was born in Philadelphia ,PA. She would later becomes the second African American to earn a... Continue →
1872 - Mississippi legislature meets
On this date in 1872, Mississippi legislature met. John R Lynch was elected Speaker of the house at the age of twenty-four.
1837 - The first National Negro Catholic Congress is held
On this date in 1837, The first National Negro Catholic Congress is held in Washington. D. C.
1800 - Antislavery petition from free Blacks
ON this date in 1800, Antislavery petition from free Blacks of Philadelphia presented to Congress.
1989 - The Arsenio Hall Show premieres.
On this date in 1989, The Arsenio Hall Show premieres. It is the first regularly scheduled nightly talk show to star an African American.
1984 - Jesse Jackson secures release of Black pilot
On this date in 1984, Rev. Jesse Jackson secures the release of pilot Lt. Robert Goodman, shot down over Damascus.
1969 - Louis Stokes is sworn in.
On this date in 1969, Louis Stokes is sworn in as the first African American congressman from the state of Ohio. He will serve more than ten terms in... Continue →
1969 - Rep. Adam Clayton Powell Jr. seated by Congress.
On this date in 1969, Rep. Adam Clayton Powell Jr. seated by Congress.
1966 - Floyd B. McKissick named national director of Congress of Racial Equality.
On this date in 1966, Floyd B. McKissick, North Carolina attorney, named national director of Congress of Racial Equality.
1966 - Shooting of Civil Rights Activist
On this date in 1966, Sammy Younge, Jr., 21, was shot to death by a 67 year old white service station attendant. A Tuskegee Institute student and... Continue →
1961 - Adam Clayton Powell elected Chairman of the House
On this date in 1961, Adam Clayton Powell elected Chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee.
1947 - NAACP report
On this date in 1947, NAACP report said 1946 was "one of the grimmest years in the history of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored... Continue →
1947 - 1st Black to head a standing comm. of Congress
On this date in 1947, Congressman William L. Dawson elected chairman of House Expenditures Committee. He was the first Black to head a standing... Continue →
1947 - U.S. Black Population
On this date in 1947, United States Population: 150,697,361. Black population: 15,042,286 (10 per cent).
1621 - First African American, William Tucker, born
On this date in 1621, First African American, William Tucker, born
