Angela Bassett, the acclaimed American actress, was born on August 16, 1958. She is known for her powerful performances in both film and television, often portraying strong, iconic women. Some of her most notable roles include playing Tina Turner in What’s Love Got to Do with It (1993), for which she received an Academy Award nomination, and her work in Black Panther (2018) as Ramonda, the mother of T’Challa.

Bassett has received multiple awards throughout her career, including Golden Globe Awards and NAACP Image Awards, and is recognized for her versatility, skill, and dedication to her craft.

Charles H. Wesley, an influential African American historian, passed away on August 16, 1987. He was renowned for his contributions to the study of African American history and culture, particularly in the areas of the history of Black churches, the African American experience in the United States, and the educational systems for Black Americans. Wesley’s work was instrumental in shaping the academic field of African American studies, and he was a key figure in the development of the scholarly community focused on the history and heritage of African Americans. He also served as a professor and administrator, notably at universities such as Fisk University.

On August 16, 1972, Rev. Philip A. Potter, a Black Methodist minister from Dominica, was appointed as the General Secretary of the World Council of Churches (WCC). His appointment was a significant moment in the history of the WCC, as it reflected the organization’s commitment to diversity and global representation. Potter was known for his dedication to ecumenism, social justice, and human rights, and his leadership marked a new chapter in the WCC’s efforts to address issues of racial and social injustice worldwide.

His work focused on promoting peace, solidarity, and cooperation among Christian denominations, as well as addressing issues such as apartheid in South Africa and the struggle for human rights in various parts of the world. Potter’s tenure as general secretary was a pivotal time for the World Council of Churches, and his legacy continues to influence the global ecumenical movement today.

On August 16, 1970, Angela Davis, the political activist and scholar, was named in a federal arrest warrant in connection with her involvement in a violent attempt to free the “Soledad Brothers”—three African American men who were accused of killing a white prison guard. The incident that led to the arrest warrant was the kidnapping and murder of a judge, which was orchestrated by a man named Jonathan Jackson, who had tried to take the judge hostage in an attempt to secure the release of the Soledad Brothers.

Davis was accused of being involved by providing the weapons used in the kidnapping. She was charged with aiding and abetting the kidnapping and murder of Judge Harold Haley. Despite the charges, Davis became a symbol of the struggle for civil rights and prison reform. She was later arrested and spent several months in jail before being acquitted of all charges in 1972.

Her case garnered international attention and she became a prominent figure in the Black Power and feminist movements.

On August 16, 1963, artist and graphic designer Charles White became the first Black artist to design a U.S. postage stamp. He created the stamp to honor the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., celebrating the important contributions King made to the Civil Rights Movement.

White was an influential artist who advocated for social justice, and this design was a testament to both his skill and his commitment to representing African American experiences through art. The stamp featured a portrait of Dr. King and was part of the recognition of his leadership in the fight for racial equality.

On August 16, 1938, Robert Johnson, the legendary blues singer and guitarist, died under mysterious circumstances. His death has been the subject of much speculation and intrigue over the years. Johnson, who was born on May 8, 1911, in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, is widely regarded as one of the most influential blues musicians of all time, with songs like “Cross Road Blues” and “Hellhound on My Trail.”

There are several theories surrounding his death, but the exact cause remains unclear. Some reports suggest that he died from poisoning, possibly from a bottle of whiskey that was laced with strychnine. It’s believed that Johnson may have been poisoned by a jealous husband or lover, though this theory is still debated. Other theories suggest he may have died from a snake bite or another illness.

Johnson’s death at the age of 27 added to the mystique surrounding his life and music, and he became part of the “27 Club,” a group of influential musicians who died at that age. His legacy, however, lives on through his groundbreaking music, which greatly influenced rock, blues, and popular music in general.

Louis Lomax, an influential African American author, journalist, and television personality, was born on August 16, 1922. He is best known for his work in civil rights and as one of the first African Americans to host a network television program. Lomax played an important role in documenting the history of African American culture and issues, especially through his investigative reporting. His notable works include When the Word is Given: A Report on Elijah Muhammad and the Black Muslims and The Negro Revolt.

On August 16, 1890, Alexander Clark was named the U.S. Minister to Liberia. This appointment marked a significant moment in history, as Clark became one of the first African Americans to hold such a high diplomatic position. His appointment reflected the growing involvement of African Americans in government and diplomacy during the late 19th century, especially in relation to African nations. Clark was a prominent civil rights leader and an advocate for African American empowerment, and his role in Liberia helped strengthen the ties between the United States and the country, which had historical connections to the U.S. due to the settlement of freed African Americans there in the early 19th century.