With the Confederacy facing imminent defeat and suffering from severe troop shortages, General Robert E. Lee proposed the use of enslaved African Americans as soldiers, stating it was “not only expedient but necessary.” This marked a significant—albeit desperate—shift in Confederate policy, which had previously fought to preserve slavery. The idea was controversial and came too late to alter the war’s outcome.

On this day, scientists publicly announced findings supporting the theory of Mitochondrial Eve, a woman who lived in Africa around 150,000 to 200,000 years ago and from whom all modern humans are maternally descended. The discovery, based on mitochondrial DNA analysis, provided powerful evidence for the “Out of Africa” theory, affirming Africa as the cradle of modern humanity. Though not the only woman alive at the time, “Eve” represents a common ancestor in an unbroken line of mothers, highlighting the deep African roots of all people today.

Reuben V. Anderson was appointed as a judge on the Mississippi Supreme Court, becoming the first African American to serve on the state’s highest court. His appointment marked a significant milestone in the fight for racial equality in the legal system of Mississippi, a state with a long and complex history regarding civil rights.

Mary J. Blige, widely known as the “Queen of Hip Hop Soul,” was born in the Bronx, New York. Blige revolutionized R&B by blending soulful vocals with hip hop beats, creating a new genre-defining sound. Over her career, she has earned numerous awards, including nine Grammys, and became an icon of empowerment and authenticity in music and culture. Beyond music, Blige has also made a significant impact as an actress and philanthropist.

On this day, David Ruffin officially began performing with The Temptations, marking a turning point in the group’s history. Known for his powerful voice and emotive performances, Ruffin became the lead singer on many of the group’s biggest hits, including “My Girl.” Born on January 18, 1941, in Meridian, Mississippi, Ruffin started his music career in gospel with the Dixie Nightingales and was first signed to Anna Records before rising to fame with Motown.

A violent riot erupted at the University of Georgia after the admission of its first two Black students, Charlayne Hunter and Hamilton Holmes. The university suspended them, but a federal court quickly ordered their reinstatement. They resumed classes on January 16, marking a significant moment in the desegregation of higher education in the American South.

Charles W. Anderson Jr. became the first African American elected to the Kentucky General Assembly in the 20th century. Representing Louisville, his election marked a pivotal step forward for Black political representation in a state with deep racial divisions. Anderson was a strong advocate for civil rights, education, and the advancement of African Americans throughout his legislative career.

William D. McCoy, an African American diplomat from Indiana, was appointed as the United States Minister (a role akin to ambassador) to Liberia. His appointment was significant as Liberia, founded by formerly enslaved African Americans, maintained strong diplomatic ties with the United States. McCoy’s role reflected both the importance of these ties and the presence of African Americans in high-level diplomatic positions during the post-Reconstruction era.

Out of 106 representatives, 31 were Black. Additionally, 5 of the 33 senators were Black. This marked a significant moment in the Reconstruction Era, reflecting increased Black political participation in the South following the Civil War.