October - Black History Fact of the Day
1
Oct

1966 - Black Panther party founded in Oakland, California.

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

1
Oct

1991 - Dr. Mary Schmidt Campbell becomes dean of New York University's Tisch School of the Arts

On this date in 1991, Dr. Mary Schmidt Campbell, art historian, becomes dean of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.

1
Oct

1977 - Soccer great Pele retires

On this date in 1977, Soccer great Pele retires.

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 federal marshals, to register at the University of Mississippi. Edwin A. Walker, former major general in the U.S. Army, was arrested and charged with inciting insurrection and seditious conspiracy.

1
Oct

1960 - Nigeria proclaimed independent

On this date in 1960, Nigeria proclaimed independent.

1
Oct

1952 - Joe Black become first Black Pitcher to Win a World Series Game

On this date in 1962, Joe Black becomes the first black pitcher to win a World Series game. The Dodgers defeated the New York Yankees 4-2. Black was also the 1952 Rookie of the Year.

1
Oct

1952 - Juanita James was born.

On this date in 1952, Juanita James was born. She is a writer, who has been coined, “The gatekeeper of prose.”

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 Korea.

1
Oct

1945 - R&B singer and songwriter, Donny Hathaway was born

Donny Hathaway, the legendary R&B singer and songwriter, was born on September 1, 1945. Known for his soulful voice and heartfelt performances, he made a significant impact on the music world. Hathaway’s contributions include iconic songs like “A Song for You” and “This Christmas,” as well as his collaborations with Roberta Flack, which produced hits like “Where Is the Love.” His influence in the R&B and soul genres continues to resonate with artists today.

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.

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 New Market Heights, made gallant but unsuccessful assault on Fort Gilmer and helped repulse Confederate counterattack on Fort Harrison.

2
Oct

1989 - Jump Start premieres in 40 newspapers

ON this date in 1989, Jump Start premieres in 40 newspapers in the U.S. It is created by 26 year old Robb Armstrong, the youngest African American to have a syndicated comic strip. He follows in the footsteps of Morrie Turner, the creator of Wee Pals, the first African American syndicated comic strip.

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

1995 - Ex-football star O.J. Simpson is cleared of murder on this date.

Ex-football star O.J. Simpson is cleared today of murdering his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ronald Goldman.

3
Oct

1979 - Death of artist Charles White dies

ON this date in 1979, artist Charles White (61) dies in Los Angeles.

3
Oct

1974 - Frank Robinson named manager of the Cleveland

On this date in 1974, Frank Robinson named manager of the Cleveland Indians and became the first Black manager in the major leagues.

3
Oct

1956 - Nat King Cole host own TV show

On this day in 1956, Nat King Cole was the first black performer to host his own tv show.

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

1941 - Chubby Checker born

ON this day in 1941, Singer Chubby Checker was born. Born Ernest Evans, in Philadelphia. Checker was best known for “The Twist” a hit song that soon became a style of dance.

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 Italians, seeking revenge for their prior humiliating loss to Ethiopia over 40 years earlier, committed countless atrocities on the independent African state.

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 Cookman Institute and became Bethune-Cookman College. Seventy-six Blacks reported lynched in 1904.

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.

3
Oct

1974 - Frank Robinson,becomes the manager of the Cleveland Indians

On this date in 1974, Professional baseball player, Frank Robinson,becomes the manager of the Cleveland Indians and the first Black manager of a major league team.

4
Oct

1971 - Elgin Baylor announces his retirement from the Los Angeles Lakers.

Elgin Baylor announces his retirement from the Los Angeles Lakers. After 14 years in the NBA, Baylor had scored 23,149 points, the third highest in the league, and was the fifth highest career re-bounder.

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 the name of the slain civil rights leader.

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., respectively.

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 both English and French, started as a tri-weekly but soon became an influential daily.

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

1932 - Congresswoman, Yvonne Burke, born on this date.

Congresswoman, Yvonne Burke, born, 1932.

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 Continental Army’s ranks of men.

Northern colonies began to accept African Americans, free and slave, because these colonies could not fill their quotas with White man.

Connecticut adopted a policy whereby White slave masters could avoid service in the army by providing one of his slaves to fight for America freedom.

The policy to allow slaves to substitute for White masters spread throughout the colonies

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 Baker was the first Black mayor of any American city takes office.

6
Oct

1917 - Activist, Fannie Lou Hamer, born on this date.

Activist, Fannie Lou Hamer, born, 1917

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 was black and Turner was white.

6
Oct

1895 - Riding Saddle

On this date in 1895, W.D. Davis patented an improved riding saddle. Davis invented his saddle while serving as a buffalo soldier, African American soldiers serving either in the 9th and 10th Calvary or 24th and 25th Infantry who manned the Western borders.

6
Oct

1871 - Fisk Jubilee Singers began first national tour

On this date in 1871, Fisk Jubilee Singers began first national tour.

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 elected president.

7
Oct

1993 - Writer, Toni Morrison, awarded the Nobel Prize in literature on this date.

Writer, Toni Morrison, awarded the Nobel Prize in literature, 1993

7
Oct

1988 - Singer Billy Daniels dies

On this date in 1988,Jazz and ballad singer Billy Daniels dies in Los Angeles.

7
Oct

1934 - Writer Imamu Amiri Baraka born

On this date in 1934, Playwright Imamu Amiri Baraka born Everett LeRoi Jones in Newark, New Jersey.

7
Oct

1931 - Archbishop Desmond Mpilo Tutu born.

ON this date in 1931, Archbishop Desmond Mpilo Tutu born.

7
Oct

1897 - Elijah Poole, aka The Honorable Elijah Muhammad, born

ON this date in 1897, Elijah Poole, aka The Honorable Elijah Muhammad, born

7
Oct

1891 - Archibald John Motley, painter, born

On this date in 1891, Archibald John Motley, painter, born

7
Oct

1890 - Humphrey H. Reynolds patents safety gate for bridge

On this date in 1890, Humphrey H. Reynolds, patents Safety Gate for Bridges, Patent No. 437,937

7
Oct

1888 - Sargent C. Johnson, pioneering artist of the Harlem Renaissance born

On this date in 1888, Sargent C. Johnson, pioneering artist of the Harlem Renaissance , known for his wood, cast stone, and ceramic sculptures, born

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. Scores of Blacks attended the university in 1874 and 1875.

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

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.

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

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 owner is only convicted of 10 years of probation. Her store was firebombed weeks later.

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 personnel in the same regimental organizations.”

9
Oct

1888 - Obadiah.B. Clare patents rail trestle

ON this date in 1888, Obadiah. B. Clare, patents Trestle, Patent# 390,753

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 to publish and edit a newspaper, was born

9
Oct

1806 - Mathematician Benjamin Banneker dies.

On this date in 1806, Mathematician Benjamin Banneker (74) dies, in Ellicott’s Mills, Maryland.

10
Oct

1917 - Jazz pianist Theolonius Monk is born in Rocky Mount North Carolina

Jazz pianist Theolonius Monk is born in Rocky Mount, NC. He was only one of 3 jazz musicians ever featured on the cover of Time magazine.

10
Oct

1899 - Issac R. Johnson patents folding bicycle frame

Inventor Isaac R.Johnson patented his frame of a bicycle which can be separated or folded to store in the trunk of a car or other small places. This type of bicycle can be used to carry on vacation.

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

1935 - Porgy and Bess premieres in New York City

On this date in 1935, Porgy and Bess premieres in New York City

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 Blacks: R.H. Gleaves, lieutenant governor; Francis L. Cardozo, treasurer; Henry E. Hayne, secretary, of state; H.W. Purvis, adjutant general.

10
Oct

1863 - Saint Francis Xavier Church purchased

On this date in 1863, The first exclusively Black parish in the United States was Saint Francis Xavier Church in Baltimore, Maryland. It was purchased on this day and dedicated months later.

11
Oct

1991 - Redd Foxx dies on this date

Comedian John Elroy Sanford, “Redd Foxx,” dies at age 68.

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

1898 - Shampoo Headrest patented.

ON this date in 1898, C.O. Bailiff patented the shampoo headrest. Patent #US612008 A

11
Oct

1887 - Elevator and Safety Devices Invented

On this date in 1887, the elevator as well as safety devices for elevators where invented by Alexander Miles, Patent # 371,207

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

1999 - Basketball legend, Wilt Chamberlain, died at the age 63 on this date

Basketball legend, Wilt Chamberlain, died today at age 63.

12
Oct

1932 - Richard ("Dick") Gregory was born on this day.

Richard (“Dick”) Gregory was born on this day.

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 contest at New Orleans, came into the plantation fields to enlist 500 Negro slaves. These are General Jackson comments: “Had you not as soon go into battle and fight, as to stay here in the cotton-field, dying and never die?” Then he promised, “If you will go, and the battle is fought and the victory gained on Israel’s side, you shall be free.” James Roberts, one of the slaves who heard Jackson’s words explained that they seemed like “divine revelation.” He expressed the feelings of many of his fellow slaves: “In hope of freedom, we would run through a troop and leap over a wall.” Jackson departed with 500 of Calvin Smith’s slaves, a costly contribution of valuable property. Smith encouraged the general to emphasize the promise of freedom as an incentive to faithful and courageous service and was relieved that his slaves, not his sons, were enlisted. “If the [N]egroes should be killed,” Smith reasoned, “they are paid for, but if my children should go and get killed, they cannot be replaced.” Jackson’s officers understood this perspective and encouraged planters to provide black troops for the war. “I glory in your spunk,” Captain Brown, one of Jackson’s assistants told Smith. “Let us have as many [N]egroes as you can spare, for we are sure that those [N]egroes you give us will gain victory.”

But after the battle was won and “sixty or seventy or more of the colored men were killed…[who] were, without doubt, as Jackson himself acknowledged, the instrumental cause of victory,” Jackson told the men to “go home to your masters.”

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

1924 - Comedian Nipsey Russell born on this date.

Nightclub comedian and actor Nipsey Russell born in Buffalo, New York.

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 to Rayford W. Logan, historian and author, “in tribute to his lifetime of service as an educator and historian.”

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 courthouse shoot-out.

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 reported lynched in 1919.

13
Oct

1914 - Garrett T Morgan patents the gas mask, Patent #US1113675 A

O this date in 1914, Garrett T Morgan patents the gas mask. Patent #US1113675 A

13
Oct

1902 - Noted poet, Arna W Bontemps was born.

On this date in 1902, Noted poet, Arna W Bontemps was born.

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

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.

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 eighties slaying of a police officer.

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 statesmen of his time.

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 against and African American. The exclusion was temporary and the young Robeson would go on to be named a football All-American twice.

14
Oct

1902 - William Boyd Allison Davis born

On this date in 1902, William Boyd Allison Davis, a leading social anthropologist and educator, challenged the cultural bias of standardized intelligence tests. Dr. Davis argued that Black’s low scores were not the results of lower intelligence but the result of middle-class cultural bias posed in the questions.

14
Oct

1864 - The first African American daily newspaper, the New Orleans Tribune is published

On this date in 1864, The first African American daily newspaper, the New Orleans Tribune is published in both French and English.

14
Oct

1834 - Harry Blair patents his corn-planting machine.

On this date in 1834, Harry Blair patents his corn-planting machine. The planter resembled a wheelbarrow, with a compartment to hold the seed and rakes dragging behind to cover them. This device enabled farmers to plant their crops more efficiently and enable a greater total yield. Patent #8,447X

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.

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

1968 - Wyomia Tyus wins two consecutive gold medals.

On this date in 1969, Wyomia Tyus becomes the first person to win a gold medal in the 100 meter race in two consecutive Olympic games.

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

1890 - Alabama Penny Savings Bank organized in Birmingham

ON this date in 1890, Alabama Penny Savings Bank organized in Birmingham.

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 H. Cain, Joseph H. Rainey, Robert Smalls, South Carolina. Jackson College (Miss.) established.

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 in 1859, being convicted of murder, treason, and conspiracy. But his way of freeing slaves was the most dramatic way of abolitionist impact, ever seen.

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”. The day called for black men to take charge of their lives and communities by showing respect for themselves and devotion to their families.

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 Mexico City. Carlos and Smith said they were protesting racism in America.

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 governor; Henry E. Hayne, secretary of state; Francis L. Cardozo, treasurer; Henery W. Purvis, adjutant general. Blacks won 97 of the 158 seats in the General Assembly.

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 were captured and one escaped.

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 Blacks to win public office, elected clerk of Brownhelm Township, Lorain County, Ohio. In 1856 he was elected clerk of the township of Russia, near Oberlin.

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.

16
Oct

1849 - Charles L. Reason named professor of belles-lettres and French at Central College.

ON this date in 1849, Charles L. Reason named professor of belles-lettres and French at Central College, McGrawville, New York. William G. Allen and George B. Vashon also taught at the predominantly white college.

16
Oct

1849 - Avery College established in Allegheny,Pennsylvania.

ON this date in 1849, Avery College established in Allegheny, Pennsylvania.

17
Oct

1928 - Author Lerone Bennett, Jr. was born on this day.

Author Lerone Bennett, Jr. was born on this day.

17
Oct

1969 - Dr. Clifton R. Wharton Jr. elected president of Michigan State University

On this date in 1969, Dr. Clifton R. Wharton Jr. elected president of Michigan State University and became the first Black to head a major, predominantly white university in the twentieth century.

17
Oct

1956 - Mae Jemison: Astronaut, Physician, Engineer was born

On this date in 1956, Mae C. Jemison was born the youngest of three children of Charlie and Dorothy Jemison, a maintenance worker and schoolteacher. Raised in Chicago, Illinois, she graduated from Morgan Park High School in 1973.

17
Oct

1888 - Capital Savings Bank of Washington, D.C.opened.

On this date in 1888, Capital Savings Bank of Washington, D.C., the first Black bank, opened in Washington, D.C. The Savings Bank of the Order of True Reformers (Richmond, Va.) was chartered on March 2, 1888.

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 disturbances.

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 petition was not granted.

17
Oct

1720 - Poet Jupiter Hammon was born

On this date in 1720, Jupiter Hammon, a writer and self-educated Calvinist, who was born a slave. Hammon is believed to be the first black poet published in the United States.

17
Oct

1926 - Singer Chuck Berry born

On this date in 1926, Rock and roll innovator Charles “Chuck” Edward Berry born in San Jose, California, and later taken to St. Louis Missouri, where he grew up. Berry regarded as one of the founders of Rock and Roll and is responsible for such hits as “Johnny B. Good” and “Roll Over Beethoven.”

18
Oct

1968 - Bob Beamon breaks World long jump record on this date.

World long jump was beat by Bob Beamon, record at 29 ft, 2.5 in at the Mexico City Olympics

18
Oct

1951 - Terry McMillan, novelist born

On this date in 1951, Novelist, editor, and educator Terry McMillan was born on this day. Ms. McMillan will reach acclaim for her books “Mama”, “Disappearing Acts,” “Waiting to Exhale”, and “How Stella Got Her Groove Back”, the later two books being made into screenplays.

18
Oct

1948 - Ntozke Shange was born

On this date in 1948, Born Paulette Williams, she graduated from Barnard College in 1970, and later earned an MA from the University of Southern California. It was there she changed her name to the Zulu “Ntozke” meaning “she who comes with her own things” and “Shange” meaning “who walks like a lion.” She is best know for her for colored girls who have considered suicide / when the rainbow is enuf which became an acclaimed theater piece.

18
Oct

1945 - Actor, singer, athlete and activist, Paul Robeson, receives Spingarn Medal.

ON this date in 1945, Actor, singer, athlete and activist, Paul Robeson, receives Spingarn Medal, 1945

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 sentence.

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 imprisonment of Dr. King.

19
Oct

1944 - US Navy accepted black women

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

19
Oct

1943 - Theater Guild presentation of Othello

On this date in 1943, Theater Guild presentation of Othello opened at Shubert Theater with Paul Robeson in title role. Production ran for 296 performances and set record for Shakespearean drama on Broadway.

19
Oct

1936 - Johnetta Betsch Cole was born on this day.

On this date in 1936, Johnetta Betsch Cole was born on this day.

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 Carolina: Joseph H. Rainey, Robert C. Delarge and Robert B. Elliott. Rainey was elected to an unexpired term in the Forty-first Congress and was the first Black seated in the House.

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; Francis L. Cardozo, secretary of state.

19
Oct

1859 - Co-founder of Virginia State College, Byrd Prillerman, born.

On this date in 1859, Co-founder of Virginia State College, Byrd Prillerman, born.

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.

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 Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

20
Oct

1898 - North Carolina Mutual and Provident Insurance founded.

On this date in 1898, North Carolina Mutual and Provident Insurance Company founded by John Merrick and associates in Durham, North Carolina as the first African American owned insurance company.

21
Oct

1986 - George Alcorn patents fabrication of spectrometer

Patent # 4,618,380 George E. Alcorn (Reston, VA) patents method of fabricating an imaging X-ray spectrometer.

21
Oct

1994 - Dexter King named Chief Executive of SCLC

ON this date in 1994, Dexter Scott King, youngest son of Martin Luther King Jr and Coretta Scott King, is named head of Southern Christian Leadership Conference.

21
Oct

1994 - Charles Edward Anderson dies.

On this date in 1994, Charles Edward Anderson the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in Meteorology; dies. In 1960, Charles Edward Anderson earned a Ph.D. in Meteorology from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston, Massachusetts.

21
Oct

1989 - Bertram M. Lee and Peter C.B. Bynoe purchase the Denver Nuggets

On this date in 1989, Bertram M. Lee and Peter C.B. Bynoe sign an agreement to purchase the National Basketball Association’s Denver Nuggets for $54 million. They become the first African American owners of a professional basketball team.

21
Oct

1980 - Valerie Thomas invents the illusion transmitter

On this date in 1980, Valerie Thomas invented the illusion transmitter. Patent #US4229761.

21
Oct

1979 - The Black Fashion Museum is opened in Harlem.

On this date in 1979, The Black Fashion Museum is opened in Harlem by Lois Alexander to highlight the achievements and contributions of African Americans to fashion.

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 game (beating out Charles Cooper and Nat Clifton by a day)

21
Oct

1917 - Dizzy Gillespie born.

On this date in 1917, Dizzy Gillespie, trumpeter & pioneer of ‘behop’ jazz was born.

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

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.

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

1953 - Clarence S. Green becomes the first African-American certified in neurological surgery

ON this date in 1953, Clarence S. Green becomes the first African-American certified in neurological surgery.

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 blacks reported lynched.

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.

23
Oct

1940 - Edson Arantes do Nascimento (Pele) was born

ON this date in 1940, in Tres Coracoes, in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, generally known as Pelé, is born.

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 Conditions and the National League for the Protection of Colored Women merged, under the leadership of Dr. George E. Hayne and Eugene Kinckle Jones, to form the National Urban League.

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 Continental Congress, and the state governments struggled with the issue of recruiting sufficient troops to carry on the fight. In 1775, Washington recommended, and the Congress agreed, that the recruitment of African Americans for service in the Continental Army be discontinued.

24
Oct

1972 - Death of Jack Roosevelt ("Jackie") Robinson on this date.

Death of Jack Roosevelt (“Jackie”) Robinson (53), first Black in major leagues in twentieth century, in Stamford, Connecticut.

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 - Langston Hughes' "Mulatto" opens

Ot this date in 1935, the first Black-authored play to become a long-run Broadway hit, Langston Hughes’ “Mulatto” opens, 1935

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

1990 - Evander Holyfield knocks out James "Buster" Douglas in the third round.

Evander Holyfield knocks out James “Buster” Douglas in the third round to become the undisputed world heavyweight champion.

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 during a brotherhood rally in Forsythe County, GA

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 who were convicted in 1931 of the alleged rape of two white women on a freight train.

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 Integrated Schools in Washington.

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.

25
Oct

1925 - Emmett W. Chappelle born

ON this date in 1925, Emmett W. Chappelle was born in Phoenix, Arizona. He received a Bachelor of Science in 1950 from the University of California, In 1954 Chappelle received a Master of Science from the University of Washington.

25
Oct

1915 - Attorney James L. Curtis named minister of Liberia

On this date in 1915, Attorney James L. Curtis named minister of Liberia.

25
Oct

1892 - Lincoln .F. Brown patents bridle bit

On this date in 1892, Lincoln F. Brown patents Bridle bit. Patent No. 484,994

26
Oct

1911 - Gospel singer, Mahalia Jackson, born on this date.

Gospel singer, Mahalia Jackson, born, 1911

26
Oct

1977 - Dr. Clifford R. Wharton Jr. named chancellor

On this date in 1977, Dr. Clifford R. Wharton Jr. named chancellor of the State University of New York.

26
Oct

1934 - Charles H. Houston, named director of the NAACP legal campaign.

ON this date in 1934, at a New York City conference, representatives of the NAACP and the American Fund for Public Service planned a coordinated legal campaign against segregation and discrimination. Charles H. Houston, Vice-dean of the Howard University Law School, was named director of the NAACP legal campaign.

26
Oct

1921 - Solomon Porter Hood named minister to Liberia

On this date in 1921, Solomon Porter Hood named minister to Liberia.

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, South Carolina.

26
Oct

1806 - Benjamin Banneker, inventor and scientist, dies

On this dated in 1806, Benjamin Banneker, inventor and scientist, dies at the age of 74. In 1753, he borrowed a pocket watch from a well-to-do neighbor; he took it apart and made a drawing of each component, then reassembled the watch and returned it, fully functioning, to its owner.

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

1924 - Ruby Dee (Born Ruby Ann Wallace) was born on this day.

Ruby Dee (Born Ruby Ann Wallace) was born on this day.

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 increased the number of Blacks voters who insured his election.

27
Oct

1954 - B.O. Davis Jr. became the first Black general

On this date in 1954, B.O. Davis Jr. became the first Black general in the U.S. Air Force.

27
Oct

1891 - P.B. downing patents Street Letter Drop Box

On this date in 1891, P. B. Downing’s Street Letter Mail Box patented. Patent No. 462,096 and a patent #462,093 for the mailbox (letterbox).

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

1914 - Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, founded at Howard

On this date in 1914, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity incorporated,founded at Howard University.

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 engagement for Black troops.

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

1974 - Muhammad Ali regains world heavyweight boxing title.

Muhammad Ali regains world heavyweight boxing title.

29
Oct

1994 - Pearl Primus dies

On this date in 1994, Pearl Primus dies. Primus, who founded her own dance company in 1946, was best known for her “primitive” dances. She was famed for her energy and her physical daring, which were characterized by leaps up to five feet in the air. Dance critics praised her movements as forceful and dramatic, yet graceful and deliberately controlled.

29
Oct

1981 - William O. Walker, Publisher of Cleveland Call and Post newspaper, dies

On this date in 1981, William O. Walker (85), publisher of the Cleveland Call and Post newspaper, dies. In 1932, Walker became the publisher and editor of the Cleveland Call and Post, one of the most influential African-American newspapers in the United States. Walker used the weekly paper to educate the community about racial injustices occurring in not only Cleveland but across the United States. During this period in time, African Americans increasingly supported the Democratic Party; however, Walker used the Call and Post to advocate for the Republican Party.

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 Mississippi case, Alexander V. Holmes, the Court abandoned the principle of “all deliberate speed.”

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 These Rights: The Report of the President’s Committee on Civil Rights.

29
Oct

1945 - Actress Melba Moore born

On this date in 1945, Actress Melba Moore was born in New York city.

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 unemployed.

29
Oct

1924 - Dixie to Broadway, "the first real revue by

On this date in 1924, Dixie to Broadway, “the first real revue by Negroes,” opened at Broadhurst Theater, New York City, with Florence Mills in starring role.

29
Oct

1923 - Runnin' Wild opened at Colonial Theater, Broadway

On this date in 1923, Runnin’ Wild opened at Colonial Theater, Broadway. Miller and Lyles Productions introduced Charleston to New York and the world.

30
Oct

1991 - BET Holdings, Inc. initial public offering on the NYSE on this date.

BET Holdings, Inc. the parent company of Black Entertainment Television sells 4.2 million shares of stock in an initial public offering on the NYSE, BET is the first African American company listed on the “Big Board”.

30
Oct

1989 - Advertising Executives Frank Mingo dies.

On this date in 1989, Frank Mingo, one of the pioneering advertising executives who specialized in targeting African American consumers, dies. He founded the agency as Mingo-Jones Advertising Inc. in 1977. He was posthumously inducted into the American Advertising Federation’s Hall of Fame in 1996.

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

1976 - Reverend Joseph H. Evans elected president of the United Church of Christ.

On this date in 1976, Reverend Joseph H. Evans elected president of the United Church of Christ.

30
Oct

1974 - Muhammad Ali defeated George Foreman in Zaire

On this dated in 1974, Muhammad Ali defeated George Foreman for heavyweight boxing title in Zaire.

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

1899 - W.F. Burr patents railway switch

W.F. Burr patents Switching device Oct.31,1899 Patent # 636,197

31
Oct

1969 - Race riot, Jacksonville, Florida

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

31
Oct

1945 - Educator, Booker T Washington, inducted into the Hall of Fame for Great Americans

On this date in 1945, Educator, Booker T Washington, inducted into the Hall of Fame for Great Americans.

31
Oct

1900 - Actor and singer, Ethel Waters was born.

On this dated in 1900, Actor and singer, Ethel Waters was born.

31
Oct

1893 - Football player, William Henry Lewis, named All-American.

On this date in 1893, Football player, William Henry Lewis, named All-American.

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 published by Elihu Embree, the son of a Quaker minister. The publication ceased due to Embree’s illness, and then was sold to Benjamin Lundy in 1821, when it became The Genius of Universal Emancipation.