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22
Apr

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 →

11
Feb

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.

14
Feb

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.

25
May

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 →

28
May

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.

1
Jul

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.

2
Jul

1925 - Activist Medgar Evers born

Civil Rights activist Medgar Evers born in Decatur, Mississippi.  

2
Jul

1908 - Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, born on this date.

The first African American Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, born in Baltimore.

4
Jul

1776 - Declaration of Independence adopted

Declaration of Independence adopted. A section denouncing the slave trade was deleted.

9
Jul

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.

11
Jul

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 →

13
Jul

1972 - Shirley Chisholm

Shirley Chisholm became the first African American Presidential nominee, with 151 votes from the delegates polled.

15
Jul

1822 - Philadelphia opens its Public schools for Blacks.

Philadelphia opens its Public schools for Blacks.

16
Jul

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

25
Jul

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

26
Jul

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."

28
Jul

1868 - The 14th Amendment, making Blacks citizens was passed.

The 14th Amendment, making blacks citizens was passed, 1868

29
Jul

1918 - Congress asked to make lynching a federal crime

The National Liberty Congress of Colored Americans asked Congress to make lynching a federal crime.

31
Jul

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.

4
Aug

1897 - Henry Rucker appointed collector of Internal Revenue for Georgia

Henry Rucker appointed collector of Internal Revenue for Georgia, 1897

6
Aug

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 →

7
Aug

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 →

10
Aug

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.

11
Aug

1965 - Thurgood Marshall

U.S. Senate confirmed nomination of Thurgood Marshal as U.S. solicitor general.

13
Aug

1953 - President Eisenhower established Government Contract Compliance Committee

President Eisenhower established Government Contract Compliance Committee to supervise anti-discrimination regulations in government contracts.

15
Aug

1938 - Congresswoman Maxine Waters born on this date.

Congresswoman Maxine Waters was born this day. Congresswoman Waters is a Democrat from California.

1
Jan

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 →

19
Aug

1989 - Desmond Tutu Defies Apartheid Law

Defying apartheid laws, Bishop Desmond Tutu walks alone on a South African beach, 1989

22
Aug

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.

23
Aug

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).

24
Aug

1854 - John V. DeGrasse admitted to Massachusetts Medical Society.

John V. DeGrasse, prominent physician, admitted to Massachusetts Medical Society.

25
Aug

1886 - American National Baptist Convention

The first meeting of the American National Baptist Convention was held in St. Louis, Missouri.

27
Aug

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 →

28
Aug

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

30
Aug

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.

7
Sep

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

14
Sep

1921 - US Cabinet member, Constance Baker Motley was born on this date.

US Cabinet member, Constance Baker Motley was born, 1921

15
Sep

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 →

17
Sep

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.

24
Sep

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 →

25
Sep

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

27
Sep

1954 - School Integration Begins

School integration began in Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Md., public schools.

1
Oct

1966 - Black Panther party founded in Oakland, California.

Black Panther party founded in Oakland, California by Huey Newton and Bobby Seale.

2
Oct

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.

8
Oct

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.

9
Oct

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 →

14
Oct

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.

15
Oct

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.

16
Oct

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 →

19
Oct

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 →

20
Oct

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.

22
Oct

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.

23
Oct

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.

1
Jan

1914 - Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated, founded.

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, founded at Howard University.

2
Nov

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

3
Nov

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.

5
Nov

1974 - Shirley Chisholm elected to Congress

Shirley Chisholm, a New York Democrat, is the 1st African American woman elected to Congress.

6
Nov

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 →

7
Nov

1989 - David Dinkins was elected first Black mayor of New York City

David Dinkins was elected first Black mayor of New York City, 1989

17
Nov

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 →

22
Nov

1930 - Elijah Muhammad founds the Nation of Islam in Detroit.

Elijah Muhammad founds the Nation of Islam in Detroit, 1930

23
Nov

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

24
Nov

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 →

29
Nov

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.

1
Dec

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 →

1
Dec

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.

4
Dec

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 →

4
Dec

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 →

6
Dec

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.

8
Dec

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 →

10
Dec

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.

12
Dec

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

21
Dec

1988 - African-American term is coined

Jesse Jackson urges the use of the term "African-American"

24
Dec

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.

25
Dec

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 →

26
Dec

1966 - kwanzaa

Kwanzaa, originated by Dr.Maulana Karenga, is started on this date in 1966.

27
Dec

Second Day of Kwanzaa

Second Day of Kwanzaa Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)

28
Dec

Third Day of Kwanzaa

Third Day of Kwanzaa - Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)

29
Dec

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 →

29
Dec

1845 - Texas Admitted as a Slave State

Texas became a slave state on this date in 1845.

1
Jan

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 →

1
Jan

Kwanzaa Ends (Imani) Faith

Kwanzaa Ends (Imani) Faith

2
Jan

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 →

4
Jan

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.

4
Jan

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 →

6
Jan

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 →

7
Jan

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 →

8
Jan

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 →

10
Jan

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 →

11
Jan

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 →

12
Jan

1971 - The Congressional Black Caucus organized

The Congressional Black Caucus organized.

14
Jan

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 →

15
Jan

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 →

19
Jan

1969 - UCLA names building after Ralph Bunche

UCLA renames its social science buildings to honor alumnus Ralph Bunche.

20
Jan

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.

20
Jan

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 →

21
Jan

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 →

22
Jan

1981 - Samuel Pierce is named Secretary of HUD

Samuel Pierce is named Secretary of HUD in the Reagan Administration.

23
Jan

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

25
Jan

1972 - Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm begins her campaign

Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm begins her campaign for President of the U.S.

26
Jan

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

1
Feb

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.

4
Feb

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.

5
Feb

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 →

6
Feb

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 →

7
Feb

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 →

9
Feb

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 →

11
Feb

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 →

12
Feb

1962 - Bus boycott started in Macon, Georgia

Bus boycott started in Macon, Georgia.

14
Feb

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 →

17
Feb

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.

20
Feb

1991 - African Americans win eight Grammys

African Americans win eight Grammys

23
Feb

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.

25
Feb

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

26
Feb

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 →

26
Feb

1869 - Fifteenth Amendment guaranteeing the right to vote

Fifteenth Amendment guaranteeing the right to vote sent to the states for ratification.

1
Mar

1960 - Alabama State Board of Education expelled nine

Alabama State Board of Education expelled nine Alabama State students for participating in sit-in demonstrations.

4
Mar

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 →

5
Mar

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.

6
Mar

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 →

7
Mar

1942 - First cadets graduated from Tuskegee flying school

First cadets graduated from flying school at Tuskegee.

9
Mar

1911 - Protest Against Black Firemen

White firemen of the Cincinnati, New Orleans and Texas Pacific Railroad struck to protest the hiring of Black firemen.

10
Mar

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 →

11
Mar

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.

8
Mar

1825 - Alexander Thomas Augusta

Alexander Thomas Augusta, first African American faculty member of an American medical school, Howard University, is born free

12
Mar

1964 - Malcolm X resigned from the Nation of Islam

Malcolm X resigned from the Nation of Islam.

13
Mar

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 →

15
Mar

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 →

18
Mar

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 →

19
Mar

1968 - Students Seize college building

Howard University students seized administration building. Students were demanding campus reform and Black-oriented curriculum. Civil rights... Continue →

19
Mar

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 →

20
Mar

1852 - Uncle Tom's Cabin

Uncle Tom's Cabin, a novel by Harriet Beecher Stowe, published in Boston.

21
Mar

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 →

25
Mar

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 →

30
Mar

1870 - The 15th Amendment.

On March 30, 1870, the ratification of the 15th Amendment secured voting rights for all male U.S. citizens.

2
Apr

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 →

3
Apr

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.

4
Apr

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 →

5
Apr

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 →

6
Apr

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 →

7
Apr

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.

9
Apr

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 →

11
Apr

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.

10
Apr

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.

16
Apr

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 →

19
Apr

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 →

20
Apr

1971 - Supreme Court Rules on Busing

U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously that busing was a constitutionally acceptable method of integrating public schools.

24
Apr

1944 - The United Negro College Fund founded.

On April 24, 1950, the United Negro College Fund was founded.

25
Apr

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 →

27
Apr

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 →

1
Sep

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.

1
Sep

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.

1
Sep

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.

2
Sep

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.

2
Sep

1956 - Demonstrations Against School Integration

Tennessee National Guard sent to Clinton, Tennessee, to quell mobs demonstrating against school integration.

2
Sep

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 →

2
Sep

1945 - The Ending of World War II

Japanese surrendered on V-J Day, ending World War II.

2
Oct

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 →

3
Sep

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 →

3
Sep

1918 - Five soldiers hanged

Five soldiers hanged for alleged participation in Houston riot of 1917.

3
Sep

1895 - Charles Hamilton Houston was born on this day.

NAACP leader, Charles Hamilton Houston was born on this day.

3
Sep

1891 - John Stephens Durham names minister of Haiti

John Stephens Durham, assistant editor of the Philadelphia Evening Bulletin, named minister to Haiti.

3
Sep

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.

3
Sep

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 →

3
Sep

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.

3
Sep

1838 - Frederick Douglass Escapes slavery on this date.

On this date in 1838, Frederick Douglass, disguised as a sailor escapes from slavery

3
Sep

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.

4
Sep

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.

4
Sep

1949 - Paul Robeson Concert Prevented by riot

On this date in 1949, a Riot prevented Paul Robeson concert at Peekskill, New York.

4
Sep

1875 - Clinton Massacre, Clinton, Mississippi

On this date in 1875, 20 to 30 blacks were killed during the Clinton Massacre in Clinton, Mississippi.

4
Sep

1865 - Bowie State College established in Bowie, MD

On this date in 1965, Bowie State College was established in Bowie, MD

4
Sep

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.

5
Sep

1960 - Leopold Sedar Senghor elected President of Senegal.

On this date in 1960, Leopold Sedar Senghor, poet, politician, is elected President of Senegal.

5
Sep

1895 - George Washington Murray was elected to Congress

On this date in 1895, George Washington Murray was elected to Congress by South Carolina.

5
Sep

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.

5
Sep

1804 - Absalom Jones ordained a priest on this date

On this date in 1804, Absalom Jones ordained a priest in the Protestant Episcopal Church.

6
Sep

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.

6
Sep

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.

6
Sep

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 →

6
Sep

1905 - Atlanta Life Insurance Company established

On this date in 1905, Atlanta Life Insurance Company established by A.F. Herndon.

6
Sep

1876 - Race riot

Race riot, Charleston, South Carolina.

6
Sep

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 →

6
Sep

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 →

6
Sep

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 →

6
Sep

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 →

6
Sep

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 →

6
Sep

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

9
Sep

1800 - Zion AME Church dedicated in New York City

On this date in 1800, Zion AME Church dedicated in New York City.

8
Sep

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.

8
Sep

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 →

8
Sep

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 →

9
Sep

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 →

9
Sep

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 →

9
Sep

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 →

9
Sep

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.

9
Sep

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

9
Sep

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 →

9
Sep

1884 - John R Lynch Presides over Republican National Convention

On this date in 1884, John R Lynch Presides over Republican National Convention

9
Sep

1847 - John R Lynch was born

On this date in 1847, John R Lynch was born.

9
Sep

1817 - Death of Captain Paul Cuffe

On this date in 1817, Captain Paul Cuffe (58), entrepreneur and activist, dies in Westport, Massachusetts.

9
Sep

1806 - Abolitionist, Sarah Mapps Douglass was born

On this date in 1806, Abolitionist Sarah Mapps Douglass was born

9
Sep

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 →

10
Sep

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 →

10
Sep

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 →

10
Sep

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.

10
Sep

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.

10
Sep

1913 - George W. Buckner named minister to Liberia

On this date in 1913, George W. Buckner, a physician from Indiana, named minister to Liberia.

10
Sep

1913 - Lynchings

Fifty-one Blacks reported lynched in 1913.

10
Sep

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 →

10
Sep

1974 - Haile Selassie I is deposed from the Ethiopian throne.

On this date in 1974, Haile Selassie I is deposed from the Ethiopian throne.

11
Sep

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 →

11
Sep

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.

11
Sep

1923 - Charles Evers born

On this date in 1923, Charles Evers, brother of Medgar, Mayor of Fayette Miss. (elected 1969), was born

11
Sep

1885 - Moses A. Hopkins named minister of Liberia

On this date in 1885, Moses A. Hopkins, minister and educator, named minister to Liberia.

11
Sep

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 →

11
Sep

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 →

12
Sep

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.

12
Sep

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 →

12
Sep

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.

12
Sep

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 →

13
Sep

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.

13
Sep

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 →

13
Sep

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 →

13
Sep

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.

13
Sep

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.

13
Sep

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 →

13
Sep

1947 - Geronimo Pratt was born

On this date in 1947, Geronimo Pratt was born today

14
Sep

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 →

14
Sep

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 →

15
Sep

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.

15
Sep

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 →

15
Sep

1963 - Church Bombing in Birmingham

On this date in 1963, Four Black girls killed in bombing of Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham.

15
Sep

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 →

15
Sep

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 →

15
Sep

1889 - Poet Claude McKay was born on this day.

On this date in 1889, Claude McKay was born.

15
Sep

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.

15
Sep

1830 - Philadelphia held the First National Negro Convention.

On this date in 1830, Philadelphia held the First National Negro Convention.

15
Sep

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 →

16
Sep

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.

16
Sep

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 →

16
Sep

1848 - The French abolish slavery in all there territories.

On this dated in 1848, the French abolish slavery in all there territories.

17
Sep

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 →

17
Sep

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.

17
Sep

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.

17
Sep

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 →

17
Sep

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.

18
Sep

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.

18
Sep

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 →

18
Sep

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.

18
Sep

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 →

18
Sep

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 →

18
Sep

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.

19
Sep

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 →

19
Sep

1956 - First International Conference

On this date in 1956, theFirst international conference of Black writes and artists met at the Sorbonne in Paris.

19
Sep

1881 - Booker T. Washington opens Tuskegee Institute in Alabama

On this date in 1881, Booker T. Washington opens Tuskegee Institute in Alabama

19
Sep

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 →

20
Sep

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.

20
Sep

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 →

20
Sep

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 →

20
Sep

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.

20
Sep

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 →

20
Sep

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 →

21
Sep

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.

21
Sep

1966 - National Guard mobilized to stop rioting in Dayton, Ohio.

On this date in 1966, National Guard mobilized to stop rioting in Dayton, Ohio.

21
Sep

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 →

21
Sep

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 →

21
Sep

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.

21
Sep

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 →

21
Sep

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 →

21
Sep

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 →

22
Sep

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.

22
Sep

1960 - Mali proclaimed independent

On this date in 1960, Mali proclaimed independent.

22
Sep

1954 - Actress Shari Belafonte born

On this date in 1954, actress Shari Belafonte, daughter of singer Harry Belafonte, born in New York City.

22
Sep

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.

22
Sep

1868 - Race riot in New Orleans

On this date in 1868, a Race riot occurred in New Orleans.

22
Sep

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.

22
Sep

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 →

23
Sep

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.

23
Sep

1863 - Mary Church Terrell was born

On this dated in 1863, Mary Church Terrell was born.

24
Sep

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 →

24
Sep

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.

24
Sep

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 →

24
Sep

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 →

24
Sep

1957 - Black Students Escorted To School

On this date in 1957, Soldiers of 101st Airborne Division escorted nine Black students to Central High school.

24
Sep

1931 - Cardiss Robertson Collins was born

On this dated in 1931, Representative Cardiss Robertson Collins, elected the U.S. House of Representatives was born

24
Sep

1883 - National Black convention met in Louisville, Kentucky

On this date in 1883, National Black convention met in Louisville, Kentucky.

24
Sep

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 →

25
Sep

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.

25
Sep

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.

25
Sep

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 →

26
Sep

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 →

26
Sep

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 →

26
Sep

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 →

27
Sep

1966 - National Guard mobilized in SanFrancisco

On this date in 1966, the National Guard was mobilizing in San Francisco.

10
Dec

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 →

27
Sep

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.

27
Sep

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.

27
Sep

1877 - John Mercer Langston named Minister of Haiti

On this date in 1877, John Mercer Langston named minister of Haiti.

27
Sep

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 →

27
Sep

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 →

27
Sep

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.

18
Feb

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 →

16
Feb

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 →

15
Feb

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 →

9
Nov

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 →

9
Nov

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 →

4
Nov

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 →

10
Nov

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 →

10
Nov

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 →

20
Nov

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 →

20
Nov

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 →

20
Nov

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.

20
Nov

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 →

20
Nov

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 →

1
Jan

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.

1
Jan

1960 - Cameroon becomes Independent

On this date in 1960, Cameroon gains independence

1
Jan

1956 - Sudan proclaimed independent

On this date in 1956, Sudan proclaimed independent.

1
Jan

1808 - The African Benevolent Society for Education was founded.

On this date in 1808, the African Benevolent Society for Education was founded.

1
Jan

1808 - The importation of African slaves prohibited.

On this date in 1808, the federal law prohibiting the importation of African slaves went into effect.

1
Jun

1966 - Civil Rights Conference

On this date in 1966 approximately 2,400 persons attended White House Conference on Civil Rights.

1
Jun

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 →

1
Jun

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.

1
Jun

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 →

1
Jun

1864 - Florida General Assembly in Tallahassee

On this date in 1864, the Florida General Assembly (nineteen Blacks, fifty-seven whites) met in Tallahassee.

2
Jun

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 →

2
Jun

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 →

2
Jun

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 →

2
Jun

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.

2
Jun

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 →

2
Jun

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.

3
Jun

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 →

3
Jun

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 →

4
Jun

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 →

4
Jun

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 →

5
Jun

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.

5
Jun

1969 - Race riot in Connecticut

On this date in 1969, there a Race riot occurred in Hartford, Connecticut.

5
Jun

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.

5
Jun

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 →

5
Jun

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 →

5
Jun

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 →

5
Jun

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 →

6
Jun

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.

6
Jun

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 →

6
Jun

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 →

6
Jun

1939 - Marian Wright Edelman was born on this day

On this day in 1939, Children's Advocate Marian Wright Edelman was born.

6
Jun

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.

6
Jun

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.

6
Jun

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 →

8
Jun

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.

8
Jun

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.

9
Jun

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.

10
Jun

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 →

10
Jun

1941 - Death of Marcus Garvey

On this day in 1941, Marcus Garvey (52) died in London, England.

10
Jun

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.

11
Jun

1967 - Race riot in Tampa Florida

On this day in 1967, there was a Race riot in Tampa, Florida. The National Guard was mobilized.

11
Jun

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 →

11
Jun

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 →

12
Jun

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.

12
Jun

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.

12
Jun

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 →

12
Jun

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 →

12
Jun

1840 - The World's Anti-Slavery Convention

On this day in 1840, the World's Anti-Slavery Convention convenes in London, England.

13
Jun

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 →

13
Jun

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 →

14
Jun

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 →

15
Jun

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 →

15
Jun

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.

16
Jun

1971 - Racial disturbance

On this day in 1971, Racial disturbance, Jacksonville, Florida.

16
Jun

1970 - Race riot in Florida

On this day in 1970, Race riot, Miami, Florida.

16
Jun

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 →

16
Jun

1943 - Race riot, Beaumont, Texas

On this day in 1943, Race riot, Beaumont, Texas. Two killed.

17
Jun

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 →

17
Jun

1897 - William Frank Powell named minister to Haiti

On this date in 1897, William Frank Powell, New Jersey educator, named minister to Haiti.

17
Jun

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 →

17
Jun

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.

17
Jun

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 →

19
Jun

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.

18
Jun

1966 - Samuel Nabrit

ON this date in 1966, Samuel Nabrit is the first African American to serve on the Atomic Energy Commission

18
Jun

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.

18
Jun

1953 - Egypt becomes republic

ON this date in 1953, Egypt becomes a republic after the forced abdication of King Farouk I.

18
Jun

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 →

1
Aug

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 →

1
Aug

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.

1
Aug

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 →

1
Aug

1944 - Adam Clayton Powell elected congressman

On this date in 1944, Adam Clayton Powell elected first Black congressman from East.

1
Aug

1943 - Race riot in Harlem

On this date in 1943, a Race riot occurred in Harlem. (From 8/1 through 8/2).

1
Aug

1941 - Ronald H Brown was born

On this date in 1941, Former chairman of the Democratic National Committee, Ronald H Brown was born.

1
Aug

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.

1
Aug

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 →

1
Oct

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 →

1
Jan

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 →

1
Oct

1960 - Nigeria proclaimed independent

On this date in 1960, Nigeria proclaimed independent.

1
Oct

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 →

2
Oct

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.

2
Oct

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.

2
Oct

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.

3
Oct

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.

3
Oct

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 →

3
Oct

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 →

3
Oct

1856 - Timothy ("T.") Thomas Fortune was born on this day.

On this date in 1856, Timothy ("T.") Thomas Fortune was born on this day.

4
Oct

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.

4
Oct

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 →

4
Oct

1982 - Rayford Logan, educator, historian, author, dies

ON this date in 1982, Rayford Logan, educator, historian, author, dies

4
Oct

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 →

4
Oct

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 →

4
Oct

1864 - National Black convention met in Syracuse, New York.

On this date in 1864, National Black convention met in Syracuse, New York.

4
Oct

1966 - Independence Day - Kingdom of Lesotho

ON this date in 1966, The Kingdom of Lesotho declared its independence

5
Oct

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 →

5
Oct

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.

5
Oct

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.

5
Oct

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 →

6
Oct

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 →

6
Oct

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.

6
Oct

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 →

7
Oct

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 →

7
Oct

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.

8
Oct

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.

8
Oct

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.

9
Oct

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

9
Oct

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 →

9
Oct

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 →

10
Oct

1978 - Congressman Ralph H. Metcalfe dies.

ON this date in 1978, Congressman Ralph H. Metcalfe (68) dies in Chicago.

10
Oct

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

10
Oct

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

10
Oct

1901 - Frederick Douglass Patterson born

On this date in 1901, Frederick Douglass Patterson, veterinarian and founder of the United Negro College Fund, born

10
Oct

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 →

11
Oct

1972 - Prison uprising, Washington, D.C., jail

On this date in 1972, Prison uprising, Washington, D.C., jail.

11
Oct

1939 - NAACP organizes the Education Fund and Legal Defense.

On this date in 1939, the NAACP organizes the Education Fund and Legal Defense.

11
Oct

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.

12
Oct

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 →

12
Oct

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.

12
Oct

1945 - Jesse James Payne was lynched in Madison County

On this date in 1945, Jesse James Payne was lynched in Madison County, Florida.

13
Oct

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 →

13
Oct

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 →

13
Oct

1926 - First Black naval aviator, Jesse Leroy Brown born.

On this date in 1926, First Black naval aviator, Jesse Leroy Brown was born.

13
Oct

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 →

13
Oct

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.

14
Oct

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 →

14
Oct

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 →

14
Oct

1971 - Two killed in Memphis racial disturbances

ON this date in 1971, Two killed in Memphis racial disturbances.

14
Oct

1969 - Race riot, Springfield, Massachusetts.

On this date in 1969, a race riot occurred in Springfield, Massachusetts.

14
Oct

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.

14
Oct

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 →

15
Oct

1974 - National Guard mobilized to restore order.

On this date in 1974, National Guard mobilized to restore order in Boston school busing crisis.

15
Oct

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.

15
Oct

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.

15
Oct

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 →

15
Oct

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 →

16
Oct

1984 - Bishop Desmond Tutu, Awarded Nobel Peace Prize, African activist

On this date in 1984, Bishop Desmond Tutu, Awarded Nobel Peace Prize, African activist.

16
Oct

1973 - Maynard Jackson elected mayor of Atlanta

On this date in 1973, Maynard Jackson elected mayor of Atlanta.

16
Oct

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 →

16
Oct

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.

16
Oct

1922 - Leon Howard Sullivan was born on this day.

On this date in 1922, Leon Howard Sullivan was born on this day.

16
Oct

1917 - Fannie Lou Hamer was born on this day.

On this date in 1917, Fannie Lou Hamer was born.

16
Oct

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.

16
Oct

1895 - National Medical Association founded in Atlanta

On this date in 1895, National Medical Association founded in Atlanta.

16
Oct

1876 - Race riot, Cainhoy, South Carolina

On this date in 1876, Race riot, Cainhoy, South Carolina. Five whites and one Black killed.

16
Oct

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 →

16
Oct

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 →

16
Oct

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 →

16
Oct

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.

17
Oct

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 →

17
Oct

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.

17
Oct

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 →

19
Oct

1983 - Grenadian Prime Minister killed

On this date in 1983, Grenada's U.S. educated Prime Minister Maurice Bishop killed in a military coup.

19
Oct

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 →

19
Oct

1944 - US Navy accepted black women

On this date in 1944, US Navy accepted black women.

19
Oct

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 →

19
Oct

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 →

20
Oct

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 →

21
Oct

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 →

21
Oct

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.

21
Oct

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.

22
Oct

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.

22
Oct

1955 - The first black post office open, Atlanta Georgia

On this date in 1955, the first black post office open, Atlanta Georgia.

22
Oct

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.

22
Oct

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.

22
Oct

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 →

23
Oct

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 →

23
Oct

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 →

24
Oct

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

24
Oct

1964 - Zambia proclaimed independent

On this date in 1964, Zambia proclaimed independent.

24
Oct

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.

24
Oct

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.

24
Oct

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.

24
Oct

1892 - In New Orleans, 25,000 Black workers strike.

On this date in 1892, In New Orleans, 25,000 Black workers strike.

25
Oct

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 →

25
Oct

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 →

25
Oct

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 →

25
Oct

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.

25
Oct

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.

26
Oct

1876 - President sent federal troops to South Carolina

On this date in 1876, President sent federal troops to South Carolina.

26
Oct

1868 - White terrorists killed several Blacks

On this date in 1868, White terrorists killed several Blacks in St. Bernard Parish, near New Orleans.

26
Oct

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 →

26
Oct

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.

27
Oct

1981 - Andrew Young elected mayor of Atlanta.

On this dated in 1981, Andrew Young, Former UN Ambassador, elected mayor of Atlanta.

27
Oct

1978 - President Carter signed Hawkins-Humphrey full

On this date in 1978, President Carter signed Hawkins-Humphrey full employment bill.

27
Oct

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 →

28
Oct

1981 - Edward M. McIntrye elected Mayor of Augusta Georgia

On this date in 1981, Edward M. McIntrye elected first Black mayor of Augusta, Georgia.

28
Oct

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 →

28
Oct

1798 - Founder of The Underground Railroad, Levi Coffin was born

On this date in 1798, Founder of The Underground Railroad, Levi Coffin was born.

29
Oct

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 →

29
Oct

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 →

29
Oct

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 →

30
Oct

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.

30
Oct

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.

30
Oct

1954 - Defense Department eliminates segregated regiments.

On this dated in 1954, Defense Department announced elimination of all segregated regiments in the armed forces.

30
Oct

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.

31
Oct

1969 - Race riot, Jacksonville, Florida

On this dated in 1969, a Race riot occurred in Jacksonville, Florida.

31
Oct

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 →

1
Nov

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.

12
Aug

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 →

2
Nov

1976 - Jimmy Carter Elected President

On this date in 1976, Jimmy Carter, former governor of Georgia, elected president with strong support from Black voters.

2
Nov

1976 - Black congressmen reelected

On this date in 1976, Seventeen Black congressmen reelected.

2
Nov

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.

2
Nov

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.

2
Nov

1920 - Warren G. Harding

On this date in 1920, Warren G. Harding elected president.

2
Nov

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 →

2
Nov

1880 - Republican James A. Garfield elected President

On this dated in 1880, Republican James A. Garfield elected president.

2
Nov

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 →

3
Nov

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.

3
Nov

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

3
Nov

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 →

3
Nov

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.

3
Nov

1974 - Harold Ford elected congressman from TN.

On this date in 1974, Harold Ford elected congressman from TN.

3
Nov

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 →

3
Nov

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.

3
Nov

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.

3
Nov

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.

3
Nov

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.

3
Nov

1942 - William L. Dawson elected to Congress

On this date in 1942, William L. Dawson elected to Congress from Chicago.

3
Nov

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.

3
Nov

1896 - Lynchings

On this date in 1896, Seventy-eight Blacks reported lynched.

3
Nov

1896 - South Carolina State College established

On this date in 1896, South Carolina State College established.

3
Nov

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 →

3
Nov

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 →

3
Nov

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 →

4
Nov

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 →

4
Nov

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 →

4
Nov

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.

4
Nov

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 →

4
Nov

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.

4
Nov

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.

4
Nov

1874 - Democrats swept off-years elections

On this date in 1874, Democrats swept off-years elections, winning a majority in the House of Representatives.

4
Nov

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 →

4
Nov

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 →

4
Nov

1872 - 4th black official wins election

On this date in 1872, Fourth Black official, Treasurer Antoine Dubuclet, won elections in 1870 and 1874.

4
Nov

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.

5
Nov

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.

5
Nov

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.

5
Nov

1974 - Harold Ford elected to House of Representatives.

ON this date in 1974, Harold Ford of Memphis elected to House of Representatives.

5
Nov

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 →

5
Nov

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 →

5
Nov

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.

5
Nov

1970 - North Carolina Riots

On this date in 1970, National Guard mobilized in Henderson, N.C., due to riots.

5
Nov

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.

5
Nov

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 →

5
Nov

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 →

5
Nov

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 →

5
Nov

1912 - Woodrow Wilson elected president

On this date in 1912, Woodrow Wilson elected president.

5
Nov

1912 - Lynching

On this date in 1912, Sixty-one Blacks reported lynched.

5
Nov

1867 - First Reconstruction constitutional convention

On this date in 1867, First Reconstruction constitutional convention (eighteen Blacks, ninety whites) opened in Montgomery, Alabama.

5
Nov

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.

6
Nov

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.

1
Nov

1989 - Renowned attorney Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander dies.

On this date in 1989, Renowned attorney Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander dies in Philadelphia.

6
Nov

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.

6
Nov

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.

6
Nov

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 →

6
Nov

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 →

6
Nov

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 →

6
Nov

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 →

6
Nov

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 →

6
Nov

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.

6
Nov

1920 - Lynchings during the 1920's

On this date in 1920, Fifty-three Blacks reported lynched.

6
Nov

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."

6
Nov

1906 - Lynchings

On this date in 1906, Sixty-two Blacks reported lynched.

6
Nov

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 →

6
Nov

1900 - Republican William McKinley defeated William Bryan

On this date in 1900, Republican William McKinley defeated William Bryan in presidential elections.

6
Nov

1900 - Lynchings

ON this date in 1900, One hundred and six Blacks reported lynched.

6
Nov

1888 - Lynchings

On this date in 1888, Sixty-nine Blacks reported lynched.

6
Nov

1888 - Republican Benjamin Harrison elected president

On this date in 1888, Republican Benjamin Harrison elected president.

6
Nov

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.

6
Nov

1860 - Abraham Lincoln elected president

On this date in 1860, Abraham Lincoln elected president.

24
Nov

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 →

24
Nov

1874 - Swails reelected

On this date in 1874, Stephen A Swails was reelected president pro tem of the senate.

24
Nov

1874 - Robert B. Elliott

On this date in 1874, Robert B. Elliott elected Speaker of the lower house of the South Carolina legislature.

25
Nov

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.

25
Nov

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 →

25
Nov

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.

26
Nov

1970 - Death of B.O.Davis Sr.

On this date in 1970, B.O. Davis Sr. (93), first Black general, dies in Chicago.

25
Nov

1841 - Amistad survivors returned to Africa

On this date in 1841, Thirty-five Amistad survivors returned to Africa.

26
Nov

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 →

26
Nov

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 →

27
Nov

1957 - Federal troops left Little Rock

ON this date in 1957, Federal troops left Little Rock.

27
Nov

1957 - National Council of Negro Women

ON this date in 1957, Dorothy Height, YMCA official, elected president of the National Council of Negro Women.

27
Nov

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 →

27
Nov

1841 - Amistad Liberators set Sail

On this date in 1841, the liberators of the ship Amistad set sail for Africa aboard the Gentleman.

28
Nov

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 →

28
Nov

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.

28
Nov

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 →

29
Nov

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.

29
Nov

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 →

30
Nov

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 →

30
Nov

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."

30
Nov

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.

30
Nov

1924 - Congresswoman, Shirley Chisholm was born.

On this date in 1924, Congresswoman, Shirley Chisholm was born.

30
Nov

1889 - Curtain Rod Patented

On this date in 1889, S.R. Scottron patents curtain rod. U.S. Patent 481,720

30
Nov

1869 - James Lynch elected secretary of state

On this date in 1869, James Lynch elected secretary of state in Mississippi election.

1
Dec

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 →

1
Dec

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 →

1
Dec

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 →

1
Dec

1774 - Continental Congress

On this date in 1774, The Continental Congress will no longer allow the importation of slaves.

1
Dec

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 →

2
Dec

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

2
Dec

1922 - Congressman, Charles C Diggs was born.

On this date in 1922, Congressman Charles C Diggs was born.

2
Dec

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.

2
Dec

1891 - Fifty-second Congress convened

On this date in 1891, Fifty-second Congress convened. One Black congressman: Henry P. Cheatham, North Carolina.

2
Dec

1891 - Lynchings

On this date in 1891, One hundred and thirteen Blacks were reported lynched.

2
Dec

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.

2
Dec

1859 - John Brown hanged

On this date in 1859, John Brown hanged at Charleston, Virginia.

3
Dec

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).

3
Dec

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 →

3
Dec

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 →

3
Dec

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 →

3
Dec

1865 - Selection of the first Inter-racial jury is formed.

ON this date in 1865, Selection of the first Inter-racial jury is formed.

3
Dec

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.

3
Dec

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 →

4
Dec

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 →

4
Dec

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 →

4
Dec

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 →

4
Dec

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 →

4
Dec

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 →

5
Dec

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 →

5
Dec

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.

5
Dec

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 →

5
Dec

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 →

5
Dec

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 →

5
Dec

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 →

5
Dec

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 →

5
Dec

1935 - Council of Negro Women

On this date in 1935, Educator, Mary McLeod Bethune, founds National Council of Negro Women.

5
Dec

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.

6
Dec

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.

6
Dec

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.

6
Dec

1960 - pledges of nondiscrimination

On this date in 1960, In Tucson, 500 store owners, Arizona signed pledges of nondiscrimination.

6
Dec

1890 - Sgt. Thomas Shaw earned Congressional Medal of Honor.

On this date in 1890, Sgt. Thomas Shaw earned Congressional Medal of Honor.

6
Dec

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 →

6
Dec

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 →

6
Dec

1869 - National Black Labor convention

On this date in 1869, National Black labor convention met in Washington.

6
Dec

1869 - James H. Harris Elected President

On this date in 1869, James M. Harris of North Carolina elected president.

7
Dec

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.

7
Dec

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 →

7
Dec

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

7
Dec

1885 - lynchings

On this date in 1885, Seventy-four Blacks reported lynched.

7
Dec

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.

7
Dec

1874 - Massacre in Mississippi

On this date in 1874, White Democrats killed seventy-five Republicans in massacre at Vicksburg, Mississippi.

31
Dec

1953 - Hulan Jack sworn in a Manhattan Borough president.

On this date in 1953, Hulan Jack sworn in a Manhattan Borough president.

31
Dec

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 →

31
Dec

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.

30
Dec

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 →

30
Dec

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.

29
Dec

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.

8
Dec

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.

8
Dec

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 →

8
Dec

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.

8
Dec

1925 - Sammy Davis Jr born.

On this date in 1925, Entertainer, Sammy Davis Jr was born.

8
Dec

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 →

28
Dec

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 →

28
Dec

1918 - George H. White dies

On this date in 1918, George H. White (66) last of the post Reconstruction congressman, Philadelphia dies.

28
Dec

1918 - Lynching

ON this date in 1918, Sixty Blacks were reported lynched.

28
Dec

1816 - American Colonization Society organized

On this date in 1816, the American Colonization Society was organized in hall of the House of Representatives.

27
Dec

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 →

26
Dec

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.

26
Dec

1908 - Lynchings

On this date in 1908, Eighty-nine Blacks reported lynched.

26
Dec

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 →

26
Dec

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 →

24
Dec

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 →

24
Dec

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 →

24
Dec

1881 - United Order of True Reformer established

On this date in 1881, United Order of True Reformer established.

23
Dec

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 →

23
Dec

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.

22
Dec

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.

22
Dec

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.

2
Jan

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 →

2
Jan

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 →

2
Jan

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.

2
Jan

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 →

2
Jan

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.

2
Jan

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.

2
Jan

1800 - Antislavery petition from free Blacks

ON this date in 1800, Antislavery petition from free Blacks of Philadelphia presented to Congress.

3
Jan

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.

3
Jan

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 →

3
Jan

1969 - Rep. Adam Clayton Powell Jr. seated by Congress.

On this date in 1969, Rep. Adam Clayton Powell Jr. seated by Congress.

3
Jan

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.

3
Jan

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 →

3
Jan

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.

3
Jan

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 →

3
Jan

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 →

3
Jan

1947 - U.S. Black Population

On this date in 1947, United States Population: 150,697,361. Black population: 15,042,286 (10 per cent).

3
Jan

1621 - First African American, William Tucker, born

On this date in 1621, First African American, William Tucker, born