1940 – Opening of the American Negro Exposition

The American Negro Exposition, often referred to as the “Black World’s Fair,” opened in Chicago on July 4, 1940, commemorating the 75th anniversary of the end of slavery in the United States.

To mark the opening, President Franklin D. Roosevelt symbolically pressed a ceremonial button from his home in Hyde Park, which illuminated the fairgrounds and signaled the start of the exposition.

Held primarily at the Chicago Coliseum, the exposition featured more than 120 exhibits highlighting African American achievements in art, science, business, industry, and history. One of its major historical displays included a diorama honoring Crispus Attucks, widely remembered as the first person killed in the Boston Massacre.

The exposition also hosted cultural events and performances, including appearances by the legendary jazz composer Duke Ellington.

Over the course of its run, which lasted until September 2, 1940, the exposition attracted more than 250,000 visitors. Funding from the U.S. Congress and the Illinois state legislature helped support the event, reflecting its national significance and the growing recognition of African American contributions to American history and culture.