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1
Jan

1947 - Art Blakey Forms the Jazz Messengers

On the first day of 1947, drummer Art Blakey laid the foundation for what would become one of the most iconic jazz groups of all time: The Jazz... Continue →

1
Jan

1943 - Birth of Lola Falana

Lola Falana, an American singer, dancer, and actress, was born in Camden, New Jersey. Known as the "First Lady of Las Vegas," Falana broke barriers... Continue →

2
Jan

1954 - Oprah Winfrey Born

Oprah Winfrey, one of the most influential media moguls in history, was born in Kosciusko, Mississippi. Overcoming a challenging childhood marked by... Continue →

2
Jan

1990 - Politics

On this date in 1990, David Norman Dinkins officially began his tenure as the 106th mayor of New York City, making history as the city's first... Continue →

2
Jan

1977 - Erroll Garner, pianist and composer, dies.

On this date in 1977, Erroll Garner passed away. He was an influential jazz pianist and composer, best known for his timeless jazz standard "Misty."... Continue →

2
Jan

1977 - Ellis Wilson, painter, dies

On this date in 1977, Ellis Wilson, an influential African American painter, passed away on January 2, 1977. Born in 1899 in Mayfield, Kentucky,... Continue →

2
Jan

1970 - Clifton Reginald Wharton becomes the new president of Michigan State University.

On this date in 1970, Clifton Reginald Wharton Jr. made history on January 2, 1970, when he became the president of Michigan State University (MSU).... Continue →

2
Jan

1968 - Actor Cuba Gooding Jr. born

On this date in 1968, actor Cuba Gooding Jr. was born on January 2, 1968, in The Bronx, New York. He is an Academy Award-winning actor best known for... Continue →

2
Jan

1965 - Voter registration drive started in Selma, Alabama.

On this date in 1965, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) launched a voter registration drive in... Continue →

2
Jan

1915 - Historian, John Hope Franklin was born.

On this date in 1915, Historian John Hope Franklin was born. He was a highly influential historian, scholar, and educator, best known for his work on... Continue →

2
Jan

1898 - Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander born

On this date in 1898, Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander was born on, in Philadelphia, PA, and she made history as a trailblazing African American woman... Continue →

2
Jan

1872 - Mississippi legislature meets

On this date in 1872, the Mississippi Legislature convened, and John R. Lynch, at the age of 24, was elected Speaker of the Mississippi House of... Continue →

3
Jan

1997 - Bryant Gumble resigns after 15 years as host of NBC's Today Show

Bryant Gumble resigns after 15 years as host of NBC's Today Show

3
Jan

1989 - The Arsenio Hall Show premieres.

On this date in 1989, The Arsenio Hall Show premiered, making history as the first regularly scheduled nightly talk show to be hosted by an African... Continue →

3
Jan

1984 - Jesse Jackson secures release of Black pilot

On this date in 1984, Rev. Jesse Jackson successfully negotiated the release of U.S. Navy Lt. Robert Goodman, a pilot who had been shot down over... Continue →

3
Jan

1969 - Louis Stokes is sworn in.

On this date in 1969, Louis Stokes made history when he was sworn in as the first African American congressman from Ohio. He represented Ohio's 21st... Continue →

3
Jan

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

On this date in 1969, Rep. Adam Clayton Powell Jr. was seated by Congress after a long political battle. Powell, a Democratic congressman from... Continue →

3
Jan

1966 - Floyd B. McKissick named national director of Congress of Racial Equality.

On this date in 1966, Floyd B. McKissick, a civil rights attorney from North Carolina, was named the national director of the Congress of Racial... Continue →

3
Jan

1966 - Shooting of Civil Rights Activist

On this date in 1966, Sammy Younge Jr. was a 21-year-old civil rights activist and a student at Tuskegee Institute who was tragically shot and killed... Continue →

3
Jan

1961 - Adam Clayton Powell elected Chairman of the House

On this date in 1961, Adam Clayton Powell Jr. was elected Chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee, making him one of the most powerful... Continue →

3
Jan

1947 - NAACP report

On this date in 1947, the **NAACP's 1947 report** highlighted the extreme racial violence that African Americans, particularly returning Black... Continue →

3
Jan

1947 - 1st Black to head a standing comm. of Congress

On this date in 1947, Congressman William L. Dawson of Illinois made history as the first African American to chair a standing committee of the U.S.... Continue →

3
Jan

1621 - First African American, William Tucker, born

On this date in 1621, First African American, William Tucker, born. William Tucker is recognized as the first recorded African American born in the... Continue →

4
Jan

1990 - Death of Patrick Kelly

Patrick Kelly, an acclaimed fashion designer and a native of Vicksburg, Mississippi, passed away in Paris at the age of 35. Known for his bold,... Continue →

4
Jan

1985 - Leontyne Price makes her farewell appearance with the Metropolitan Opera.

Renowned African American soprano Leontyne Price gave her final performance at the Metropolitan Opera, singing the title role in Aida. Her farewell... Continue →

4
Jan

1901 - Birth of C.L.R. James

C.L.R. James, a Trinidadian historian, journalist, and socialist, was born on this day. He is best known for his influential work The Black Jacobins... Continue →

5
Jan

1931 - Chorographer, Alvin Ailey was born

Alvin Ailey, born on January 5, 1931, in Rogers, Texas, was a seminal American dancer, choreographer, and activist. His early experiences in the... Continue →

6
Jan

2003 - Mamie Till Mobley, mother of lynched Emmett Till dies at age 81.

Mamie Till-Mobley, the mother of 14-year-old Emmett Till—whose brutal lynching in 1955 became a catalyst for the American civil rights... Continue →

6
Jan

1993 - Death of Dizzy Gillespie

Legendary jazz trumpeter, composer, and bandleader John Birks "Dizzy" Gillespie passed away at age 75. A key figure in the development of bebop and... Continue →

6
Jan

1968 - John Singleton Born

John Singleton, acclaimed director and screenwriter, was born in Los Angeles, California. He is best known for his groundbreaking 1991 film Boyz n... Continue →

7
Jan

1955 - Marian Anderson Debuts at the Metropolitan Opera

On this day, Marian Anderson became the first African American to perform at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. She appeared as Ulrica in... Continue →

7
Jan

1950 - The James Weldon Johnson Collection opens at Yale

On this day, Yale University opened the James Weldon Johnson Memorial Collection of African American Arts and Letters at the Beinecke Rare Book &... Continue →

7
Jan

1891 - Birth of Zora Neale Hurston

Zora Neale Hurston, an influential African American author, anthropologist, and filmmaker, was born in Notasulga, Alabama. Best known for her novel... Continue →

8
Jan

1875 - Black Man Founds the City of Centerville

On this day in 1875, William P. Powell, an African American entrepreneur and civic leader, founded the city of Centerville in California. Amidst the... Continue →

9
Jan

1946 - Death of poet Countee Cullen

Renowned poet Countee Cullen, a leading figure of the Harlem Renaissance, passed away on this day. Known for works such as Color and Copper Sun,... Continue →

9
Jan

1935 - Earl G. Graves born.

Earl Gilbert Graves Sr. (January 9, 1935 – April 6, 2020) was an influential American entrepreneur, publisher, and advocate for African American... Continue →

9
Jan

1901 - Death of Edward Mitchell Bannister

Edward Mitchell Bannister, a celebrated African American painter known for his pastoral landscapes and seascapes, died on this day. Bannister was a... Continue →

10
Jan

1925 - Max Roach, pioneering jazz drummer, born

Max Roach, one of the most influential drummers in jazz history, was born on this day in Newland, North Carolina. A key figure in the development of... Continue →

10
Jan

1915 - Dean Dixon, Renowned Classical Conductor, Born

Dean Dixon was born on this day in Harlem, New York. A trailblazing African American conductor, Dixon faced racial barriers in the U.S., prompting... Continue →

11
Jan

1971 - Birth of Mary J. Blige

Mary J. Blige, widely known as the "Queen of Hip Hop Soul," was born in the Bronx, New York. Blige revolutionized R&B by blending soulful vocals... Continue →

11
Jan

1964 - David Ruffin Joins The Temptations

On this day, David Ruffin officially began performing with The Temptations, marking a turning point in the group's history. Known for his powerful... Continue →

12
Jan

1965 - Death of Lorraine Hansberry

Lorraine Hansberry, acclaimed author and playwright, passed away at the age of 34. She was best known for A Raisin in the Sun (1959), the first play... Continue →

13
Jan

1990 - Poet Sterling A. Brown Dies

Sterling Allen Brown, a renowned poet, folklorist, and literary critic, passed away on this day. Born in 1901, Brown was a leading figure of the... Continue →

13
Jan

Martin Luther King Jr. Honored with U.S. Postal Stamp

A commemorative stamp honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is issued by the U.S. Postal Service as part of the Black Heritage USA... Continue →

14
Jan

1972 - Premiere of Sanford and Son

On January 14, 1972, the NBC sitcom Sanford and Son premiered, quickly becoming a hit. The show portrayed the comedic relationship between an... Continue →

14
Jan

1948 - Birth of Actor Carl Weathers

Carl Weathers was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. He is best known for his role as Apollo Creed in the Rocky film series. A former professional... Continue →

14
Jan

1916 - Birth of Novelist John Oliver Killens

John Oliver Killens, an influential African American novelist, was born on this day in Macon, Georgia. Killens was a co-founder of the Harlem Writers... Continue →

15
Jan

1929 - Birth of Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin Luther King Jr., one of the most influential leaders in the American civil rights movement, was born in Atlanta, Georgia. He is best known for... Continue →

15
Jan

1961 - The Supremes Sign with Motown

On January 15, 1961, The Supremes officially signed with Motown Records, marking the beginning of one of the most successful careers in music... Continue →

16
Jan

2003 - Richard Parsons Named Chairman of AOL Time Warner

Richard Parsons, then CEO of AOL Time Warner, was selected to become the company’s next chairman. This made him one of the most powerful African... Continue →

16
Jan

1950 - Birth of Debbie Allen

Debbie Allen, an acclaimed African American dancer, choreographer, actress, and television producer, was born in Houston, Texas. Known for her... Continue →

16
Jan

1938 - Benny Goodman’s Integrated Jazz Concert at Carnegie Hall

Benny Goodman led a groundbreaking jazz concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City, considered one of the first serious jazz performances in that... Continue →

16
Jan

1928 - Birth of Eartha Kitt

Eartha Kitt, an iconic singer, actress, and activist, was born in North, South Carolina. Known for her distinctive voice and dynamic performances,... Continue →

17
Jan

1992 - Guitarist Jimi Hendrix inducted into Hall of Fame

January 17, 1992 – Jimi Hendrix Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix, known for his revolutionary... Continue →

17
Jan

1931 - Birth of Actor James Earl Jones

James Earl Jones was born in Arkabutla, Tate County, Mississippi. Known for his distinctive voice and powerful performances, his film credits include... Continue →

18
Jan

1975 - "The Jeffersons" Premieres on Television

"The Jeffersons" premiered as one of the first American sitcoms centered on an African-American family. A spin-off from "All in the Family," the show... Continue →

20
Jan

1993 - Maya Angelou Speaks at U.S. Presidential Inauguration

Celebrated poet and author Maya Angelou became the second poet in U.S. history to recite at a presidential inauguration. She delivered her poem "On... Continue →

20
Jan

1895 - Birth of Eva Jessye, Trailblazing Choral Director

Eva Jessye was born in Coffeyville, Kansas. A pioneering African American choral director, she gained fame for her role as the choral director for... Continue →

21
Jan

1773 - Phillis Wheatley Publishes Groundbreaking Poetry Collection

On this day, poet Phillis Wheatley—born into slavery in 1754—was freed, and her first book, Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral, was... Continue →

22
Jan

1931 - Birth of Soul Pioneer Sam Cooke

Singer Sam Cooke, widely regarded as one of the pioneers of soul music, was born in Chicago, Illinois. The son of a minister, Cooke began his musical... Continue →

22
Jan

1920 - Birth of William Warfield

William Warfield, acclaimed actor, pianist, and singer, was born in West Helena, Arkansas. His illustrious career in music spanned 54 years, during... Continue →

23
Jan

2003 - Nell Carter Passes Away at 54

Nell Carter, celebrated actress and singer, died at age 54. She was best known for her role as the sassy housekeeper on the 1980s sitcom Gimme a... Continue →

23
Jan

1993 - Death of Rev. Thomas A. Dorsey, Founder of Gospel Music

Rev. Thomas A. Dorsey, known as the "Father of Gospel Music," passed away in Chicago, Illinois. A prolific composer, performer, and recording artist,... Continue →

23
Jan

1977 - ABC-TV begins televising the Roots mini-series

ABC-TV began airing the groundbreaking mini-series Roots, based on Alex Haley's novel Roots: The Saga of an American Family. The eight-part series... Continue →

23
Jan

1976 - Death of Paul Robeson

Paul Robeson, a renowned actor, singer, athlete, and civil rights activist, passed away on this day in 1976. Robeson was a multi-talented figure who... Continue →

23
Jan

1941 - Richard Wright Wins Spingarn Medal for Native Son

On this day, acclaimed African American author Richard Wright was awarded the Spingarn Medal by the NAACP for his groundbreaking novel Native Son.... Continue →

24
Jan

1962 - Jackie Robinson was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

On January 24, 1962, Jackie Robinson was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, becoming the first African American to receive the honor.... Continue →

24
Jan

1949 - Birthday of Aaron Neville

Aaron Neville, celebrated American R&B and soul singer, was born on January 24, 1949, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Known for his distinctive voice... Continue →

24
Jan

1874 - Birth of Arturo Alfonso Schomburg

Arturo Alfonso Schomburg was born on January 24, 1874, in Santurce, Puerto Rico. A historian, writer, and activist of Afro-Puerto Rican and German... Continue →

25
Jan

1950 - Birthday of Gloria Naylor

Gloria Naylor, acclaimed African American novelist, was born on January 25, 1950, in New York City. She is best known for her debut novel The Women... Continue →

26
Jan

1893 - Birth of Bessie Coleman, First Black American Woman Aviator

Bessie Coleman, the first Black American woman to earn a pilot’s license, was born on January 26, 1893, in Atlanta, Texas. Denied flight training... Continue →

26
Jan

1958 - Anita Baker born.

Anita Baker, the celebrated American singer-songwriter renowned for her soulful ballads and powerful contralto voice, was born on January 26, 1958,... Continue →

27
Jan

1961 - Leontyne Price Debuts at the Metropolitan Opera

On January 27, 1961, Leontyne Price made her historic debut at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City, performing the role of Leonora in... Continue →

27
Jan

1953 - Invisible Man Wins the National Book Award

On January 27, 1953, Ralph Ellison's groundbreaking novel Invisible Man won the National Book Award for Fiction. The novel, which explores themes of... Continue →

27
Jan

1869 - Birth of Will Marion Cook

Will Marion Cook, a pioneering African American composer, violinist, and conductor, was born on January 27, 1869. Trained in classical music, Cook... Continue →

28
Jan

1901 - Birth of Richmond Barthé

Richmond Barthé, a prominent African American sculptor associated with the Harlem Renaissance, was born on January 28, 1901, in Bay St. Louis,... Continue →

29
Jan

1981 - Death of Jazz Drummer Cozy Cole

On January 29, 1981, William R. "Cozy" Cole, a renowned jazz drummer, passed away. Known for his impeccable technique and influential solos, Cole... Continue →

29
Jan

1954 - Birthday of Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey was born on January 29, 1954, in Kosciusko, Mississippi. She rose to prominence as an actress, media mogul, and talk show host, making... Continue →

29
Jan

1837 - Death of Alexander Pushkin, Father of Russian Literature

On January 29, 1837, Alexander Pushkin—widely celebrated as the father of Russian literature—died following a duel at the age of 37. Pushkin was... Continue →

31
Jan

1963 - Publication of James Baldwin’s The Fire Next Time

On January 31, 1963, James Baldwin’s powerful essay collection The Fire Next Time was published. Comprised of two essays, the book offered a... Continue →

31
Jan

1934 - Etta Moten Performs at the White House

On January 31, 1934, Etta Moten, a pioneering African American actress and singer, performed at a White House dinner for President and Mrs. Franklin... Continue →

1
Feb

1978 - Harriet Tubman Featured on First Black Heritage Stamp

On February 1, 1978, the U.S. Postal Service issued the first stamp in its Black Heritage USA series, honoring Harriet Tubman. A legendary... Continue →

1
Feb

1965 - Ruby Dee Performs in Shakespeare Festival

On February 1, 1965, acclaimed actress and civil rights activist Ruby Dee participated in a major Shakespeare Festival production. Her appearance... Continue →

1
Feb

1952 - Birthday of Rick James

Rick James, influential funk and R&B singer, songwriter, and producer, was born on February 1, 1952, in Buffalo, New York. Known for his... Continue →

1
Feb

1937 - Birthday of Garrett Morris

Garrett Morris, trailblazing African American actor and comedian, was born on February 1, 1937, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He became one of the... Continue →

1
Feb

1902 - Birthday of Langston Hughes

Langston Hughes, one of the most influential figures of the Harlem Renaissance, was born on February 1, 1902. Hughes became known for his insightful,... Continue →

2
Feb

1914 - Birth of William Ellisworth Artis

William Ellisworth Artis was born on February 2, 1914, in Washington, North Carolina. A talented sculptor and ceramicist, Artis studied at Syracuse... Continue →

2
Feb

1912 - Quartet Singer Herbert Mills born

Herbert Mills, tenor singer and member of the legendary vocal group The Mills Brothers, was born on February 2, 1912. The Mills Brothers were... Continue →

3
Feb

1997 - Death of Jazz Drummer Tony Williams

On February 3, 1997, award-winning jazz drummer Tony Williams died in Daly City, California. Known for his innovative style and technical brilliance,... Continue →

3
Feb

1965 - Geraldine McCullough Wins Widener Gold Medal

On February 3, 1965, African American sculptor Geraldine McCullough was awarded the Widener Gold Medal by the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.... Continue →

3
Feb

1948 - Death of Laura Wheeler Waring

On February 3, 1948, Laura Wheeler Waring, a prominent African American portrait painter and illustrator, passed away. Known for her elegant and... Continue →

5
Feb

1950 - Birthday of Natalie Cole

Singer Natalie Cole was born on February 5, 1950, in Los Angeles, California. The daughter of legendary musician Nat King Cole, she began singing... Continue →

6
Feb

1945 - Birthday of Bob Marley

On February 6, 1945, Bob Marley, the legendary Jamaican reggae musician, was born in Nine Mile, Saint Ann Parish, Jamaica. Marley became a global... Continue →

7
Feb

1967 - Birthday of Chris Rock

On February 6, 1967, comedian, actor, author, and filmmaker Chris Rock was born in Andrews, South Carolina. Known for his sharp wit and fearless... Continue →

7
Feb

1883 - Birthday of Eubie Blake

Eubie Blake, the legendary African American composer and pianist, was born on February 7, 1883, in Baltimore, Maryland. A pioneer of ragtime and... Continue →

8
Feb

1990 - Andy Rooney Suspended Over Alleged Racist Remarks

On February 8, 1990, CBS suspended veteran 60 Minutes commentator Andy Rooney for 90 days after The Advocate, a national gay and lesbian... Continue →

8
Feb

1986 - Oprah Winfrey Becomes First African American Woman to Host Nationally Syndicated Talk Show

On February 8, 1986, The Oprah Winfrey Show premiered in national syndication, making Oprah Winfrey the first African American woman to host a... Continue →

8
Feb

1968 - Birth of Gary Coleman

On February 8, 1968, Gary Coleman was born in Zion, Illinois. He became a prominent child actor, best known for his role as Arnold Jackson in the... Continue →

9
Feb

1952 - Invisible Man Wins National Book Award

On February 9, 1952, Ralph Ellison's groundbreaking novel Invisible Man won the National Book Award for Fiction. The novel explores themes of racial... Continue →

9
Feb

1944 - Birthday of Alice Walker

Alice Walker, renowned novelist, poet, and activist, was born on February 9, 1944, in Eatonton, Georgia. She is best known for her Pulitzer... Continue →

9
Feb

1906 - Death of Paul Laurence Dunbar

On February 9, 1906, acclaimed poet and author Paul Laurence Dunbar died at the age of 33 in Dayton, Ohio. One of the first African American writers... Continue →

10
Feb

1992 - Death of Alex Haley

On February 10, 1992, Alex Haley, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Roots: The Saga of an American Family, passed away at the age of 70. Haley’s... Continue →

10
Feb

1946 - Jackie Robinson Marries Rachel Isum

On February 10, 1946, Jackie Robinson, who would soon break Major League Baseball’s color barrier, married Rachel Isum in Los Angeles. Their... Continue →

10
Feb

1940 - Birthday of Roberta Flack

Roberta Flack, the acclaimed American singer, was born on February 10, 1940, in Black Mountain, North Carolina. Known for her smooth vocals and... Continue →

10
Feb

1927 - Birth of Leontyne Price

On February 10, 1927, world-renowned opera singer Leontyne Price was born in Laurel, Mississippi. She began singing in church choirs as a child and... Continue →

12
Feb

1983 - Death of Jazz Legend Eubie Blake

Celebrated pianist and composer Eubie Blake died in Brooklyn, New York, just five days after his 100th birthday. A pioneer of ragtime and early jazz,... Continue →

12
Feb

1956 - Birth of Arsenio Hall, the First Black Late-Night Talk Show Host

Arsenio Hall, who would go on to become the first Black late-night talk show host in American television history, was born on this day in Cleveland,... Continue →

12
Feb

1900 - "Lift Every Voice and Sing" Premieres as a Tribute to Lincoln

For a Lincoln birthday celebration, James Weldon Johnson writes the lyrics for "Lift Every Voice and Sing." With music composed by his brother, J.... Continue →

13
Feb

1892 - First African American Opera Company Performs at Carnegie Hall

The World's Fair Colored Opera Company became the first African American performers to appear at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Their groundbreaking... Continue →

14
Feb

1965 - Malcolm X Delivers Final Speech at Ford Auditorium

After his home in Queens, New York, was firebombed earlier that morning, Malcolm X delivered what would become his final public speech at the Ford... Continue →

14
Feb

1946 - Gregory Hines, dancer born

Gregory Hines was born on February 14, 1946, in New York City. He began tap dancing at the age of two and started performing professionally with his... Continue →

14
Feb

1817 - Possible birthday of Frederick Douglass

Frederick Douglass, born into slavery as Frederick Bailey, is widely believed to have been born on this day. After escaping slavery, he purchased his... Continue →

15
Feb

1964 - Louis Armstrong's "Hello Dolly"

Louis Armstrong's "Hello Dolly" recording becomes his first and only number one record.

15
Feb

1968 - Henry Lewis leads a symphony orchestra

On February 15, 1968, Henry Lewis made history by becoming the first African American to be appointed as the music director and conductor of a major... Continue →

15
Feb

1965 - Death of Nat King Cole

On February 15, 1965, Nat King Cole, an acclaimed singer and pianist, died at the age of 45 in Santa Monica, California. Known for his smooth... Continue →

16
Feb

1957 - Birth of Actor LeVar Burton

LeVar Burton was born in Landstuhl, Germany. He rose to prominence for his portrayal of Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking television miniseries... Continue →

16
Feb

1923 - Bessie Smith Records "Down Hearted Blues"

Blues legend Bessie Smith made her first recording, "Down Hearted Blues," for Columbia Records. The song became an instant hit, selling over 800,000... Continue →

17
Feb

1982 - Death of Jazz Legend Thelonious Monk

Legendary jazz pianist and composer Thelonious Monk died at the age of 64. Known for his unique improvisational style and contributions to the... Continue →

17
Feb

1967 - Birth of Ronald DeVoe, Member of Bell Biv DeVoe

Ronald DeVoe, a singer and one of the founding members of the R&B/hip-hop group Bell Biv DeVoe, was born in Boston, Massachusetts. The group, a... Continue →

17
Feb

1942 - Black Panther Party Founder Born

Huey P. Newton, co-founder of the Black Panther Party, was born in Monroe, Louisiana. An illiterate high school graduate, Newton taught himself to... Continue →

17
Feb

1902 - Birth of Marian Anderson, Trailblazing Opera Singer

Marian Anderson was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. A gifted contralto, she was entered in the New York Philharmonic Competition at age 17 and... Continue →

18
Feb

1973 - Death of Harlem Renaissance Artist Palmer Hayden

Palmer Hayden, a prominent African American painter associated with the Harlem Renaissance, passed away at the age of 82. Known for his vivid... Continue →

18
Feb

1931 - Birth of Toni Morrison

Toni Morrison, born Chloe Anthony Wofford in Lorain, Ohio, would become one of the most celebrated authors in American literature. She was the first... Continue →

18
Feb

1894 - Birth of Architect Paul Revere Williams

Paul Revere Williams, the first African American member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), was born on this day in Los Angeles,... Continue →

19
Feb

1996 - Death of Dorothy Maynor, Pioneering Opera Singer

Dorothy Maynor, a trailblazing African American soprano and music educator, passed away on this day. Known for her rich voice and groundbreaking... Continue →

19
Feb

1992 - John Singleton Becomes First Black Director Nominated for Best Director Oscar

John Singleton made history as the first African American—and the youngest person ever at the time—to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best... Continue →

19
Feb

1940 - Birth of Smokey Robinson

Soul singer and songwriter William "Smokey" Robinson was born in Detroit, Michigan. While still in high school, he formed the group the Miracles in... Continue →

20
Feb

1991 - African American Artists Win Big at the 33rd Grammy Awards

At the 33rd Annual Grammy Awards, African American musicians won eight major awards, showcasing the continued impact of Black artists on global... Continue →

20
Feb

1936 - Birth of Jazz Singer Nancy Wilson

Nancy Wilson, an acclaimed jazz, R&B, and pop vocalist, was born in Chillicothe, Ohio. Known for her smooth, expressive voice and versatility... Continue →

20
Feb

1929 - Harlem by Wallace Thurman Premieres in New York

The play Harlem, co-written by Wallace Thurman and William Jourdan Rapp, debuted in New York City. Offering a gritty, realistic portrayal of life in... Continue →

20
Feb

1927 - Birth of Sidney Poitier

Sidney Poitier was born in Miami, Florida. He would go on to become the first Black man to win the Academy Award for Best Actor, for his role in... Continue →

21
Feb

1992 - Death of Eva Jessye, Pioneering Choral Director

Eva Jessye, the first African American woman to gain international recognition as a professional choral director, passed away at the age of 97. Known... Continue →

21
Feb

1933 - Birth of Nina Simone

Nina Simone, born Eunice Kathleen Waymon in Tryon, North Carolina, was an acclaimed singer, pianist, and civil rights activist. Known for her... Continue →

21
Feb

1917 - Birth of Jazz Legend Thelonious Monk

Thelonious Monk, one of the most influential figures in jazz history, was born on this day in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. Known for his unique... Continue →

22
Feb

1989 - First Rap Grammy Awarded to DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince

DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince made history by winning the first-ever Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance with their hit Parents Just Don’t... Continue →

22
Feb

1938 - Birth of Poet Ishmael Reed

Ishmael Reed, an influential American poet, novelist, and essayist, was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Known for his satirical style and sharp... Continue →

22
Feb

1911 - Death of Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, the "Bronze Muse"

Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, known as the "Bronze Muse," died in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. A prolific writer, lecturer, and activist, Harper... Continue →

22
Feb

1888 - Birth of Artist Horace Pippin

Horace Pippin, a self-taught African American painter, was born on this day in West Chester, Pennsylvania. Despite being wounded in World War I, he... Continue →

22
Feb

1841 - Birth of Grafton Tyler Brown, Pioneering Lithographer and Painter

Grafton Tyler Brown was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He became the first African American artist to depict the American West, gaining... Continue →

23
Feb

1995 - Death of Melvin Franklin, Bass Singer of The Temptations

Melvin Franklin, the deep-voiced bass singer of the legendary Motown group The Temptations, passed away in Los Angeles at age 53 due to complications... Continue →

24
Feb

1864 - Rebecca Lee Crumpler Becomes First Black Woman Physician

Rebecca Lee Crumpler became the first Black woman in the United States to earn a medical degree, graduating from the New England Female Medical... Continue →

25
Feb

1998 - "I Believe I Can Fly" Wins Three Grammy Awards

R. Kelly's inspirational ballad "I Believe I Can Fly" won three Grammy Awards: Best Male R&B Vocal Performance, Best R&B Song, and Best Song... Continue →

25
Feb

1980 - Death of Poet Robert E. Hayden

Robert E. Hayden, an acclaimed African American poet and the first Black person to be appointed as Poetry Consultant to the Library of Congress (a... Continue →

26
Feb

1985 - Grammy Awards

At the 27th Annual Grammy Awards, African-American musicians achieved sweeping success. Lionel Richie’s Can’t Slow Down won Album of the Year for... Continue →

26
Feb

1933 - Birth of Godfrey Cambridge, Actor and Comedian

Godfrey Cambridge, a prominent African American actor and comedian, was born on February 26, 1933, in New York City. Known for his sharp wit and... Continue →

26
Feb

1930 - The Green Pastures opened at Mansfield Theater

The Green Pastures, a groundbreaking play by Marc Connelly, opened at the Mansfield Theatre in New York City. Featuring an all-Black cast, it was one... Continue →

26
Feb

1928 - Birth of Rock and Roll Pioneer Fats Domino

Antoine "Fats" Domino, an influential American singer, pianist, and songwriter, was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. Known for hits like Blueberry... Continue →

27
Feb

1942 - Birth of Charlayne Hunter-Gault

Award-winning journalist Charlayne Hunter-Gault was born in Due West, South Carolina. She became one of the first two Black students to integrate the... Continue →

27
Feb

1902 - Birth of Marian Anderson

Marian Anderson, a groundbreaking African American contralto, was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Renowned for her extraordinary voice and... Continue →

27
Feb

1788 - Probable Birth of Prince Hall, Revolutionary War Veteran and Masonic Leader

Prince Hall, a prominent Revolutionary War veteran and the founder of African American Freemasonry, is believed to have been born on this date.... Continue →

28
Feb

1948 - Birth of Fashion Designer Willi Smith

Willi Smith, a pioneering African American fashion designer, was born on this day in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He co-founded the influential label... Continue →

28
Feb

1943 - Porgy and Bess Opens on Broadway with Black Leads

The acclaimed opera Porgy and Bess opened on Broadway featuring African American performers Anne Brown and Todd Duncan in the lead roles. Their... Continue →

28
Feb

1977 - Death of Eddie "Rochester" Anderson

Eddie Anderson, best known for his role as "Rochester" on The Jack Benny Program, passed away on this day. Anderson was one of the first Black actors... Continue →

28
Feb

1984 - Michael Jackson Wins 8 Grammy Awards for Thriller

Michael Jackson made history by winning eight Grammy Awards in one night, the most ever at the time, for his groundbreaking album Thriller. The album... Continue →

28
Feb

1990 - Death of Cornelius Gunter, Lead Singer of The Coasters

Cornelius Gunter, lead singer of the legendary R&B group The Coasters, was shot and killed in Las Vegas, Nevada. Gunter joined The Coasters in... Continue →

29
Jan

Death of Juanita Hall, Trailblazing Performer

Juanita Hall, a celebrated singer and actress, passed away on this day. She was best known for her role as Bloody Mary in the Broadway musical South... Continue →

29
Jan

Hattie McDaniel Becomes First African American Oscar Winner

Hattie McDaniel made history by becoming the first African American to win an Academy Award. She received the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for... Continue →

1
Mar

2002 - Shauntay Hinton Crowned Miss USA

Shauntay Hinton, representing the District of Columbia, was crowned Miss USA in 2002. She became the seventh Black woman to win the title, breaking... Continue →

1
Mar

1979 - Discovery of the Oldest Known Monarchy in Nubia

The New York Times published an article titled "Nubian Monarchy Called Oldest", highlighting the findings of archaeologist Bruce Williams at Qustul,... Continue →

1
Mar

1938 - Birth of Actor Sherman Hemsley

Sherman Hemsley, the iconic actor best known for his roles as George Jefferson in All in the Family and The Jeffersons, and as Deacon Ernest Frye in... Continue →

1
Mar

1927 - Birth of Harry Belafonte

Harry Belafonte, legendary singer, actor, and civil rights activist, was born in Harlem, New York. Known as the "King of Calypso" for popularizing... Continue →

1
Mar

1925 - Harlem, Mecca of the New Negro Published

The influential magazine Survey Graphic released a special issue titled Harlem, Mecca of the New Negro, capturing the energy of the Harlem... Continue →

1
Mar

1914 - Birth of Ralph Ellison, Author of Invisible Man

Ralph Waldo Ellison, one of the most influential African American writers of the 20th century, was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. His landmark... Continue →

3
Mar

1990 - Carole Gist

Carole Gist crowned first black Miss USA.

11
Mar

1970 - The Fifth Dimension Wins Record of the Year

At the 12th Annual Grammy Awards, The Fifth Dimension—a racially integrated pop-soul group featuring African American vocalists—won Record of the... Continue →

11
Mar

1968 - Otis Redding Posthumously Awarded Gold Record

Soul legend Otis Redding posthumously received a gold record for his iconic single “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay.” The award came just... Continue →

11
Mar

1959 - A Raisin in the Sun Opens on Broadway

On this day, Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun premiered at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre in New York City, starring Sidney Poitier and... Continue →

11
Mar

1959 - Flip Wilson Honored as International Broadcasting Man of the Year

Comedian and television star Flip Wilson received the International Broadcasting Man of the Year Award, recognizing his groundbreaking impact on... Continue →

11
Mar

1950 - Birth of Bobby McFerrin

Bobby McFerrin, an innovative vocalist, composer, and conductor, was born on this day. Best known for his global hit “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,”... Continue →

12
Mar

1982 - Charles Fuller Wins Pulitzer for A Soldier’s Play

Playwright Charles Fuller was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for his powerful play A Soldier’s Play. The work explores racism within the... Continue →

12
Mar

1955 - Death of Jazz Legend Charlie Parker

Charlie "Bird" Parker, a pioneering alto saxophonist and one of the founding fathers of bebop, died on this day in New York City at the age of 34.... Continue →

12
Mar

1936 - Birth of Virginia Hamilton, Award-Winning Children's Author

Virginia Hamilton was born on this day in Yellow Springs, Ohio. She would go on to become one of the most celebrated writers of juvenile and young... Continue →

12
Mar

1773 - Jean Baptiste Point du Sable Founds Settlement That Becomes Chicago

Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, a Haitian-born fur trader of African and French descent, established a permanent settlement near the mouth of the... Continue →

14
Mar

1933 - Birth of Quincy Jones, Legendary Music Impresario

Quincy Jones was born on March 14, 1933, in Chicago’s South Side. He discovered his love for music in elementary school and experimented with... Continue →

15
Mar

1933 - Max Yergan Awarded Spingarn Medal

Max Yergan, a pioneering missionary and YMCA secretary, received the Spingarn Medal for his outstanding work in South Africa. His efforts in... Continue →

15
Mar

1959 - Death of Jazz Legend Lester Young

Lester Young, the iconic tenor saxophonist known for his smooth tone and laid-back style, died in New York City at the age of 49. A key figure in the... Continue →

17
Mar

1999 - Maurice Ashley Becomes First Black Chess Grandmaster

On this day, Maurice Ashley made history by becoming the first Black International Grandmaster in chess. Born in Jamaica and raised in Brooklyn,... Continue →

18
Mar

1963 - Birth of Vanessa L. Williams, Trailblazing Performer

Vanessa L. Williams was born in Millwood, New York. She would go on to make history as the first Black woman crowned Miss America in 1983. Despite... Continue →

18
Mar

1959 - Birth of Irene Cara – Star of Fame and Flashdance

Irene Cara, acclaimed actress, singer, and songwriter, was born in New York City. She rose to international fame with her performances in Fame (1980)... Continue →

18
Mar

1947 - Birth of R&B Legend Wilson Pickett

Wilson Pickett, a pioneering R&B and soul singer, was born in Prattville, Alabama. Known for hits like “In the Midnight Hour,” “Mustang... Continue →

18
Mar

1938 - Country singer Charlie Pride born

Charley Pride, one of the most successful Black country music artists in history, was born in Sledge, Mississippi. Pride broke racial barriers in the... Continue →

19
Mar

1939 - Founding of the New Negro Theater in Los Angeles

Langston Hughes, the celebrated poet and playwright of the Harlem Renaissance, founded the New Negro Theater in Los Angeles, California. The theater... Continue →

19
Mar

1930 - Birth of Ornette Coleman, Jazz Pioneer

Ornette Coleman, the revolutionary alto saxophonist and composer, was born in Fort Worth, Texas. A key figure in the development of free jazz,... Continue →

19
Mar

1919 - Birth of Nat King Cole, Legendary Jazz Vocalist

Nathaniel "Nat King" Cole was born in Montgomery, Alabama. A groundbreaking jazz pianist and smooth-voiced singer, Cole became one of the first Black... Continue →

19
Mar

1809 - Birth of Gabriel de la Concepción Valdés, Cuban Poet

Gabriel de la Concepción Valdés, also known as "Plácido," was born in Matanzas, Cuba. A poet of African descent, Plácido became renowned for his... Continue →

20
Mar

1852 - Uncle Tom’s Cabin Published in Boston

Harriet Beecher Stowe’s anti-slavery novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin was published in Boston, quickly becoming a bestseller and a powerful tool in the... Continue →

20
Mar

1957 - Birth of Filmmaker Spike Lee

Spike Lee, a pioneering African American filmmaker, was born in Atlanta, Georgia. Known for his provocative and socially conscious films, such as Do... Continue →

20
Mar

1916 - Ota Benga, Once Exhibited in Bronx Zoo, Dies by Suicide

Ota Benga, a Congolese man who had been exhibited in the Bronx Zoo’s Monkey House in 1906 alongside primates, died by suicide. Benga, a Mbuti man,... Continue →

20
Mar

1915 - Birth of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the Godmother of Rock and Roll

Born Rosetta Nubin in Cotton Plant, Arkansas, Sister Rosetta Tharpe would become a pioneering gospel singer and electric guitarist whose influence... Continue →

20
Mar

1910 - Birth of Allan Rohan Crite, Artist of Everyday Black Life

Allan Rohan Crite was born in North Plainfield, New Jersey. Raised in Boston’s South End, his artistic journey began at age six when his mother... Continue →

20
Mar

1852 - Martin R. Delany Publishes Foundational Black Nationalist Work

Martin R. Delany published The Condition, Elevation, Emigration, and Destiny of the Colored People of the United States, the first major work... Continue →

21
Mar

1947 - James Baskett Receives Special Academy Award

James Baskett became the second African American to receive an Academy Award when he was honored with a Special Oscar for his performance as Uncle... Continue →

22
Mar

1943 - Birth of George Benson, Jazz and R&B Legend

George Benson, a Grammy Award-winning guitarist and singer, was born on this day in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Known for blending jazz, soul, and pop... Continue →

22
Mar

1882 - Death of Shakespearean Actor Morgan Smith

Morgan Smith, an African American Shakespearean actor, died in Sheffield, England. He had emigrated from the United States to England in 1866, where... Continue →

25
Mar

1942 - Birth of Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul

Aretha Franklin was born in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of renowned Black minister Rev. C.L. Franklin. Raised in a deeply spiritual and musical... Continue →

26
Mar

1962 - Death of Augusta Savage, Pioneering Sculptor and Educator

Augusta Savage, a trailblazing African American sculptor of the Harlem Renaissance, passed away on this day. Known for her work celebrating Black... Continue →

26
Mar

1950 - Birth of Teddy Pendergrass, Soul Music Icon

Teddy Pendergrass, one of the most distinctive voices in soul and R&B music, was born on this day in Kingstree, South Carolina. Rising to fame as the... Continue →

26
Mar

1944 - Birth of Diana Ross, Iconic Singer and Actress

Diana Ross, legendary singer and founding member of The Supremes, was born in Detroit, Michigan. Under her leadership, The Supremes became Motown's... Continue →

27
Mar

2002 - Halle Berry Makes Oscar History

On this day, Halle Berry made history by becoming the first Black woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress. She earned the Oscar for her... Continue →

27
Mar

1998 – Lauryn Hill Wins Multiple NAACP Image Awards

Hill’s solo debut The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill swept multiple categories at the NAACP Image Awards, including Outstanding Album. The project... Continue →

28
Mar

1925 - Birth of Ed Wilson, Acclaimed African American Sculptor

Ed Wilson, an award-winning African American sculptor known for his powerful figurative works and commitment to social themes, was born on March 28,... Continue →

29
Mar

1918 - Birth of Singer and Entertainer Pearl Bailey

Pearl Bailey, an acclaimed singer and actress known for her sultry voice and charismatic stage presence, was born in Newport News, Virginia. Rising... Continue →

31
Mar

1931 - Cab Calloway Records Minnie the Moocher

On this day, legendary bandleader Cab Calloway recorded Minnie the Moocher, a jazz classic known for its infectious "Hi-De-Ho" chorus. The song... Continue →

31
Mar

1988 - Toni Morrison wins the Pulitzer

Renowned author Toni Morrison was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for her novel Beloved, a haunting and powerful portrayal of slavery’s... Continue →

1
Apr

1984 - Marvin Gaye dies

Marvin Gaye dies in his parents Los Angeles home. Marvin attacked his father for verbally abusing his mother. His father responded by shooting his... Continue →

1
Apr

1966 - First World Festival of Black Arts

The First World Festival of Black Arts (FESTAC) was held in Dakar, Senegal, from April 1 to April 24, 1966. Initiated by President Léopold Sédar... Continue →

1
Apr

1951 - Death of Oscar Micheaux, Pioneering Black Filmmaker

Oscar Micheaux, the first major African-American feature filmmaker, died on this day in 1951. A prolific writer, director, and producer, Micheaux... Continue →

1
Apr

1917 - Death of Scott Joplin, King of Ragtime

Scott Joplin, a pioneering composer and pianist, died in New York City. Known as the "King of Ragtime," Joplin was instrumental in shaping American... Continue →

2
Apr

1939 - Birth of Marvin Gaye, Prince of Soul

Marvin Gaye is born in Washington, D.C. A legendary soul singer and songwriter, he would sign with Motown Records in 1962 and launch a 22-year career... Continue →

2
Apr

1932 - Death of Bill Pickett, Legendary Black Cowboy

World-renowned African American cowboy Willie "Bill" Pickett died in Ponca City, Oklahoma, from injuries sustained after being kicked in the head by... Continue →

2
Apr

1918 - Birth of Charles White, Renowned African-American Artist

Charles White was born on April 2, 1918, in Chicago, Illinois. A masterful draftsman and painter, White began his professional career creating murals... Continue →

3
Apr

1961 - Birth of Eddie Murphy, Comedic Icon

Eddie Murphy was born in Brooklyn, New York. Rising to fame on Saturday Night Live in the early 1980s, Murphy became one of the most influential... Continue →

3
Apr

1950 - Death of Carter G. Woodson, "Father of Black History"

Carter G. Woodson, the pioneering historian and educator known as the “Father of Black History,” died at the age of 74 in Washington, D.C.... Continue →

3
Apr

1888 - Birth of Ma Rainey, the "Mother of the Blues"

Gertrude "Ma" Rainey was born in Columbus, Georgia. Widely celebrated as the "Mother of the Blues," she began performing at the Columbus Opera House... Continue →

4
Apr

1928 - Birth of Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou was born Marguerite Johnson in St. Louis, Missouri. Raised in both St. Louis and Stamps, Arkansas, she became one of the most... Continue →

4
Apr

1915 - Birth of Muddy Waters, the Father of Modern Chicago Blues

Born McKinley Morganfield in Rolling Fork, Mississippi, Muddy Waters would go on to become one of the most influential blues musicians of the 20th... Continue →

5
Apr

1990 - Death of Jazz Legend Sarah Vaughan

Sarah Vaughan, one of the most celebrated jazz vocalists of the 20th century, passed away at the age of 66. Known as "The Divine One," Vaughan's... Continue →

6
Apr

1937 - Birth of Billy Dee Williams

Billy Dee Williams, iconic African American actor, was born in New York City. He rose to fame with roles in films such as Mahogany and gained global... Continue →

6
Apr

1798 - Birth of James Beckwourth, Black Frontiersman and Explorer

James Beckwourth was born in Fredericksburg, Virginia, to a white slaveowner and an enslaved Black woman. As a teenager, he moved to St. Louis and... Continue →

7
Apr

1938 - Birth of Jazz Trumpet Legend Freddie Hubbard

Frederick Dewayne "Freddie" Hubbard, one of the most influential jazz trumpeters of the 20th century, was born in Indianapolis, Indiana. Known for... Continue →

7
Apr

1915 - Birth of Billie Holiday

Legendary jazz and blues singer Billie Holiday was born in Baltimore, Maryland. Known for her deeply emotional voice and haunting delivery, Holiday... Continue →

8
Apr

1938 - Cornetist and bandleader, Joe King Oliver, dies

Joseph Nathan Oliver,  better known as King Oliver or Joe Oliver, was an American jazz cornet player and bandleader. He was particularly recognized... Continue →

8
Apr

1920 - American Jazz Singer Carmen Mercedes McRae was born.

On April 8, 1920, American Jazz Singer Carmen McRae was born. After winning an amateur contest at Harlem\'s legendary Appolllo Theatre in her home... Continue →

8
Apr

1872 - Birth of Ruth Gaines-Shelton, Pioneer African American Playwright

Ruth Gaines-Shelton was born on April 8, 1872, in Glasgow, Missouri. A trailblazing African American playwright, she is best known for her comedic... Continue →

9
Apr

1975 - Death of Josephine Baker, Iconic Entertainer and Civil Rights Activist

Josephine Baker, the legendary African American performer, French Resistance agent, and civil rights activist, died in Paris at the age of 68.... Continue →

9
Apr

1950 - Juanita Hall Wins First Tony Award for an African American

Juanita Hall made history as the first African American to win a Tony Award, receiving the honor for her portrayal of Bloody Mary in the Broadway... Continue →

9
Apr

1939 - Marian Anderson's Historic Lincoln Memorial Concert

After being denied the opportunity to perform at Constitution Hall by the Daughters of the American Revolution due to her race, world-renowned... Continue →

9
Apr

1929 - Birth of Novelist Paule Marshall

Paule Marshall, acclaimed African American novelist and essayist, was born in Brooklyn, New York. Her work, including the celebrated novel Brown... Continue →

9
Apr

1888 - Birth of Florence Beatrice Price, Trailblazing Composer

Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, Florence Beatrice Price became the first African American woman to have a symphony performed by a major U.S.... Continue →

10
Apr

1964 - Birth of Actress Jasmine Guy

Jasmine Guy, acclaimed actress, dancer, and director, was born in Boston, Massachusetts. She rose to fame for her iconic role as Whitley Gilbert on... Continue →

11
Apr

1997 - Opening of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History officially opened its new facility in Detroit, Michigan, becoming the largest museum of its... Continue →

11
Apr

1988 - Willie D. Burton Wins Oscar for Sound

Willie D. Burton made history by becoming the first African American to win an Academy Award for sound. He received the Oscar for Best Sound for his... Continue →

11
Apr

1956 - Nat “King” Cole Attacked Onstage in Birmingham

Legendary singer Nat “King” Cole was violently attacked by a group of white men while performing on stage at the Birmingham Municipal Auditorium... Continue →

11
Apr

1933 - Birth of Tony Brown, Pioneering Television Journalist

Tony Brown, an influential television journalist, author, and commentator, was born on this day. Best known as the longtime host of Tony Brown’s... Continue →

12
Apr

1975 - Leontyne Price Receives Italy's Highest Civil Honor

Legendary opera soprano Leontyne Price was awarded the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, Italy's highest civilian honor. Celebrated for her... Continue →

12
Apr

1975 - Death of Josephine Baker

Josephine Baker, the legendary African American entertainer, French Resistance agent, and civil rights activist, passed away in Paris at the age of... Continue →

12
Apr

1940 - Birth of Jazz Legend Herbie Hancock

Herbie Hancock, the groundbreaking jazz composer, pianist, and bandleader, was born in Chicago, Illinois. A child prodigy who played with the Chicago... Continue →

12
Apr

1913 - Birth of Lionel Hampton, Jazz Pioneer

Lionel Hampton, legendary jazz musician and bandleader, was born on April 12, 1913. Renowned for introducing the vibraphone into jazz, Hampton... Continue →

13
Apr

1964 – Sidney Poitier Wins Academy Award for Best Actor

On this day, Sidney Poitier became the first African American man to win the Academy Award for Best Actor, for his role as Homer Smith in Lilies of... Continue →

13
Apr

1946 - Birth of Al Green, Legendary R&B Singer

Al Green, one of the most iconic voices in rhythm and blues, was born in Forest City, Arkansas. Rising to fame in the 1970s with hits like "Let's... Continue →

13
Apr

1891 - Birth of Nella Larsen, Harlem Renaissance Author

Nella Larsen, a pioneering writer of the Harlem Renaissance, was born in Chicago, Illinois. Known for her novels Quicksand (1928) and Passing (1929),... Continue →

14
Apr

1865 - President Lincoln Shot at Ford’s Theater

On the evening of April 14, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln was shot by Confederate sympathizer John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford’s... Continue →

15
Apr

1919 - Birth of Elizabeth Catlett – Trailblazing Artist and Educator

Elizabeth Catlett, a renowned African American lithographer and sculptor, was born in Washington, D.C. She became the first woman to teach sculpture... Continue →

16
Apr

1994 - Ralph Ellison Dies – Author of “Invisible Man”

On April 16, 1994, acclaimed author Ralph Ellison passed away at the age of 80. Ellison is best known for his groundbreaking 1952 novel Invisible... Continue →

16
Apr

1990 - Nelson Mandela Honored at Wembley Concert

On April 16, 1990, just two months after his release from 27 years in prison, Nelson Mandela was honored at the Nelson Mandela: An International... Continue →

16
Apr

1929 - Roy Hamilton, Baritone Voice of Soul, Is Born

On April 16, 1929, Roy Hamilton was born in Leesburg, Georgia. Known for his powerful baritone voice and passionate delivery, Hamilton rose to fame... Continue →

16
Apr

1924 - First Scat Singing Ever Recorded by Don Redman

On April 16, 1924, jazz innovator Don Redman made history as the first musician to record scat singing. While performing with Fletcher Henderson’s... Continue →

17
Apr

1990 - August Wilson Wins Pulitzer for “The Piano Lesson”

On April 17, 1990, legendary playwright August Wilson was awarded his second Pulitzer Prize for Drama for his acclaimed play The Piano Lesson. Part... Continue →

18
Apr

1983 - Alice Walker Wins Pulitzer for The Color Purple

On April 18, 1983, Alice Walker made history as the first African American woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, awarded for her... Continue →

18
Apr

1980 - Reggae singer, Robert Nesta Marley, performs at Zimbabwe Independence Celebration

On April 18, 1980, reggae icon Robert Nesta Marley—better known as Bob Marley—performed at Zimbabwe’s official Independence Day celebration in... Continue →

18
Apr

1977 - Alex Haley Wins Pulitzer Prize for “Roots”

On April 18, 1977, author Alex Haley was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for his groundbreaking book Roots: The Saga of an American Family. Blending oral... Continue →

19
Apr

1977 - Alex Haley Wins Pulitzer for Roots

On April 19, 1977, author and historian Alex Haley received a special Pulitzer Prize for his groundbreaking work “Roots: The Saga of an American... Continue →

20
Apr

1990 - Black Filmworks Festival Launches in Oakland

On April 20, 1990, Oakland, California hosted the first-ever Bay Area Black Filmworks Festival, a landmark three-day event sponsored by the Black... Continue →

20
Apr

1909 - Lionel Hampton Born – Jazz Vibraphonist and Bandleader

On April 20, 1909, Lionel Hampton was born in Louisville, Kentucky. A virtuoso vibraphonist, drummer, pianist, and bandleader, Hampton became one of... Continue →

20
Apr

1899 - Duke Ellington Born on This Day in Jazz History.

On April 20, 1899, Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington was born in Washington, D.C. Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in... Continue →

21
Apr

2003 - Nina Simone Dies at 70

On April 21, 2003, the legendary singer, pianist, and civil rights activist Nina Simone passed away at the age of 70 in Carry-le-Rouet, near... Continue →

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 →

22
Apr

1978 - Bob Marley Unites Rivals at One Love Peace Concert

On April 22, 1978, reggae legend Bob Marley hosted the historic One Love Peace Concert at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica. Taking place... Continue →

23
Apr

Mind blowing Jazz Pianist playing Art Tatum's Tiger Rag

Art Tatum was a jazz pianist and virtuoso who was nearly blind. He is acknowledged by many to be one of the greatest pianists of all time,... Continue →

23
Apr

Thelonious Monk who was a jazz pianist and composer

Some of the most complex and dissonant harmonies can be found in the repertoire of pianist and composer Thelonious Monk, one of the most important... Continue →

23
Apr

Dizzy Gillespie - Jazz and Blues Masters Series

American jazz trumpet player, singer, composer and bandleader, Gillespie was very significant in the development of bebop and modern jazz. His... Continue →

23
Apr

Relive the birth of bebop style jazz through the life of drummer Max Roach

Max Roach is considered to be one of the greatest drummers in history, and was a renowned bebop pioneer. He is, along with a select few, essentially... Continue →

23
Apr

Billie Holiday was an American jazz singer and songwriter

“Lady Day” was perhaps the most exceptional popular music singer of the 20th century. She wrote few songs, but when she sang, she took on a deep,... Continue →

25
Apr

1990 - Dexter Gordon Dies at 67 – Bebop Jazz Legend

On April 25, 1990, legendary jazz saxophonist Dexter Gordon died of kidney failure in Philadelphia at the age of 67. Known for his towering stature... Continue →

25
Apr

1918 - Ella Fitzgerald Born – Queen of Jazz Debuts at Apollo

On April 25, 1918, Ella Fitzgerald—later hailed as the “First Lady of Song”—was born in Newport News, Virginia. Known for her unmatched vocal... Continue →

26
Apr

1984 - Count Basie Dies at 79 – Jazz Legend Remembered

On April 26, 1984, the world lost a jazz titan when William "Count" Basie passed away at the age of 79. Born in Red Bank, New Jersey, in 1904, Basie... Continue →

26
Apr

1886 - Ma Rainey Born – Mother of the Blues

On April 26, 1886, Gertrude “Ma” Rainey, known as the “Mother of the Blues,” was born in Columbus, Georgia. With a powerful voice and... Continue →

26
Apr

1785 - John James Audubon Born in Haiti

On April 26, 1785, John James Audubon was born in Les Cayes, Saint-Domingue (now Haiti), to a French naval officer and an African Caribbean mother.... 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 →

28
Apr

1983 - Alice Walker and Gloria Naylor Win 1983 Book Awards

On April 28, 1983, two trailblazing African American women, Alice Walker and Gloria Naylor, were honored with American Book Awards for fiction—an... Continue →

28
Apr

1924 - First recorded use of oboe in jazz

On April 28, 1924, Don Redman made history as the first recorded musician to use the oboe in a jazz solo. A child prodigy and multi-instrumentalist,... Continue →

29
Apr

1948 - Willi Smith, Iconic Streetwear Designer, Born

On April 29, 1948, Willi Smith—one of the most influential Black designers in American fashion history—was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.... Continue →

29
Apr

1899 - Duke Ellington Born – Jazz Legend and Composer

On April 29, 1899, Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington was born in Washington, D.C. Over the next five decades, Ellington would become one of the most... Continue →

29
Apr

1945 - Richard Wright’s “Black Boy” Becomes a Bestseller

On April 29, 1945, acclaimed author Richard Wright made literary history when his memoir Black Boy reached No. 1 on the National Best Seller Book... Continue →

30
Apr

1992 - Final Episode of The Cosby Show Airs

On April 30, 1992, The Cosby Show aired its final original episode, concluding an eight-season run that changed American television. The sitcom,... Continue →

30
Apr

1900 - Wallace Saunders Writes “Casey Jones”

On April 30, 1900, African American railroad worker and engine wiper Wallace Saunders composed the original verses of “Casey Jones,” a ballad... Continue →

1
May

1950 - Gwendolyn Brooks Wins Pulitzer Prize

On May 1, 1950, poet Gwendolyn Brooks made history as the first African American to win a Pulitzer Prize. She received the prestigious award in... Continue →

1
May

1930 – Birth of Grace Bumbry, Operatic Pioneer

Born May 1, 1930, in St. Louis, Missouri, Grace Bumbry broke numerous racial barriers in the world of opera. Trained in both Europe and the U.S., she... Continue →

1
May

1950 - Gwendolyn Brooks Wins Pulitzer Prize

On May 1, 1950, Gwendolyn Brooks made history as the first African American to win the Pulitzer Prize. She received the award for her book of poetry... Continue →

1
May

1946 - Black Woman named "American Mother of the Year."

On May 1, 1946, Emma Clarissa Williams, a Black educator, church leader, and activist, was named the American Mother of the Year by the American... Continue →

1
May

1930 - Little Walter, Blues Harmonica Legend, Born

On May 1, 1930, Marion Walter Jacobs—known to the world as Little Walter—was born in Marksville, Louisiana. A revolutionary harmonica player and... Continue →

1
May

1923 – Birth of Poet and Activist Russell Atkins

Russell Atkins, born May 1, 1923, in Cleveland, Ohio, became a pioneering voice in Black experimental poetry. A composer, dramatist, and founder of... Continue →

1
May

2003 – Annette Gordon-Reed Wins Pulitzer for Jefferson-Hemings History

On May 1, 2003, Annette Gordon-Reed received the Pulitzer Prize for her book Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings: An American Controversy, a work that... Continue →

1
May

1865 – Freedom Celebrated: South Carolina’s First Black-Led Memorial Day

In the wake of the Civil War’s end, on May 1, 1865, over 10,000 people, many of them formerly enslaved, gathered at a former Confederate prison... Continue →

2
May

1984 – Michael Jackson Tours Japan

On May 2, 1984, Michael Jackson embarked on a major tour in Japan, marking one of the earliest large-scale performances by a Black American... Continue →

2
May

1983 – Alice Walker Wins Pulitzer Prize

On May 2, 1983, Alice Walker was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for her novel The Color Purple, making her the first African American woman... Continue →

3
May

1933 – James Brown, the "Godfather of Soul," Is Born

James Brown, one of the most influential figures in American music, was born on May 3, 1933, in Barnwell, South Carolina. Brown helped pioneer soul,... Continue →

3
May

1980 – Black Music Month Proclamation Drafted

On May 3, 1980, musician and cultural advocate Kenny Gamble met with political leaders to push for the official recognition of June as Black Music... Continue →

3
May

1921 – Shuffle Along Premieres on Broadway

Although the official opening was May 23, the previews for Shuffle Along—the groundbreaking all-Black Broadway musical—began on May 3, 1921.... Continue →

4
May

1896 - Bill Pickett Invents Bulldogging

On May 3, 1896, African American cowboy Bill Pickett became widely recognized as the inventor of bulldogging—a daring rodeo technique where a rider... Continue →

4
May

1946 – Founding of the Free South Theatre

The Free South Theatre was founded on May 4, 1946, in Atlanta, Georgia, as one of the first Black-owned and operated theater companies focused on... Continue →

5
May

1969 - Moneta Sleet Wins Pulitzer for Iconic MLK Funeral Photo

On May 5, 1969, Moneta Sleet Jr. made history as the first African American to win a Pulitzer Prize for journalism. He earned the award for his... Continue →

5
May

1905 – Bill "Bojangles" Robinson Performs in Major Vaudeville Circuit

On May 5, 1905, Bill "Bojangles" Robinson performed solo on the major vaudeville circuit for the first time, breaking racial barriers. His innovative... Continue →

5
May

1985 – "The Color Purple" Wins Pulitzer Prize

On May 5, 1985, Alice Walker became the first African American woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for her novel The Color Purple. The book,... Continue →

5
May

1949 – Aimé Césaire Publishes Discourse on Colonialism

On May 5, 1949, Martiniquan poet and politician Aimé Césaire released his seminal work, Discourse on Colonialism. In this fiery essay, Césaire... Continue →

5
May

1806 - Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, Passes Away — The “Black Mozart” of France

On May 5, 1806, Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, a pioneering Black composer, violinist, and military leader in France, passed away at age... Continue →

7
May

1800 - DuSable Leaves Chicago After Selling Property

On May 7, 1800, Jean Baptiste Pointe DuSable—recognized as the "Father of Chicago"—sold all his property along the Chicago River for $1,200 and... Continue →

7
May

1952 — Birth of Judge Glenda Hatchett

Glenda Hatchett, born May 7, 1952, in Atlanta, Georgia, would become a trailblazing African American jurist and television personality. After... Continue →

7
May

1989 — Max Robinson Honored Posthumously for Journalism

Max Robinson, one of the first African American news anchors of a major television network (ABC World News Tonight), was posthumously honored on May... Continue →

8
May

1910 - Mary Lou Williams Born – Jazz Icon & Composer

On May 8, 1910, Mary Lou Williams was born as Mary Elfrieda Scruggs in Atlanta, Georgia. A child prodigy on the piano, she would grow into one of the... Continue →

8
May

1858 - John Brown’s Convention & First Black Play Published

On May 8, 1858, two major milestones in Black history and the fight against slavery occurred. In Chatham, Ontario, radical abolitionist John Brown... Continue →

8
May

1990 — Howard University's Toni Morrison Wins Pulitzer Prize

On May 8, 1990, Howard University alumna Toni Morrison was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for her novel Beloved. Morrison’s work illuminated the... Continue →

9
May

1952 - Canada Lee, Trailblazing Black Actor, Dies at 45

On May 9, 1952, pioneering African American actor Canada Lee died in New York City at the age of 45. A former boxer turned acclaimed actor, Lee broke... Continue →

9
May

1919 - James Reese Europe Killed at 39 – Jazz Legend and WWI Hero

On May 9, 1919, celebrated African American composer and military bandleader James Reese Europe was tragically killed in Boston by a fellow band... Continue →

9
May

1921 – Claude McKay’s Harlem Shadows Published

Claude McKay, one of the major figures of the Harlem Renaissance, saw his seminal poetry collection Harlem Shadows published on May 9, 1921. The work... Continue →

9
May

1965 – James Baldwin’s Going to Meet the Man Published

James Baldwin, one of America\'s most influential writers and social critics, published his short story collection Going to Meet the Man on May 9,... Continue →

9
May

2002 – Halle Berry Becomes First Black Actress to Win Best Actress at Cannes

On May 9, 2002, Halle Berry made history by winning the Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival for her role in Monster’s Ball. Although... Continue →

9
May

1967 — Walter Rodney Publishes “Groundings with My Brothers”

Although Groundings with My Brothers was officially published later, on May 9, 1967, historian Walter Rodney delivered key lectures in Jamaica that... Continue →

10
May

1924 – James Baldwin Is Born

Although James Baldwin’s birthday is not on May 10, this date is significant in his life because he graduated from Frederick Douglass Junior High... Continue →

10
May

1963 – James Baldwin Debates American Racism in London

On May 10, 1963, James Baldwin appeared in a televised discussion in London to speak about racism in America, coinciding with his growing popularity... Continue →

10
May

1981 – Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum Approved in Ghana

On May 10, 1981, the Ghanaian government under President Hilla Limann approved plans to construct a national mausoleum in honor of Kwame Nkrumah,... Continue →

11
May

1854 - Asadata Dafora's "Kykunkor" Premieres in NYC

On May 11, 1934, Sierra Leonean artist Asadata Dafora premiered his groundbreaking opera-dance drama Kykunkor (The Witch Woman) at the Little Theater... Continue →

11
May

1967 – The Death of Langston Hughes

Langston Hughes, one of the foremost figures of the Harlem Renaissance, passed away on May 11, 1967, in New York City. His poetry, plays, and essays... Continue →

11
May

1981 – Bob Marley's Death

On May 11, 1981, Bob Marley, the Jamaican singer and global icon, passed away at just 36. More than a musician, Marley was a spiritual and political... Continue →

11
May

1996 – George Washington Carver Monument Re-Designated

On May 11, 1996, the U.S. Congress officially reauthorized and enhanced protections for the George Washington Carver National Monument in Diamond,... Continue →

12
May

1940 - Jazz Icon Al Jarreau Born in Milwaukee

On May 12, 1940, Al Jarreau—one of the most versatile and beloved jazz vocalists of all time—was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Known for his... Continue →

12
May

1921 – Shuffle Along Opens on Broadway

On May 12, 1921, Shuffle Along, a musical comedy written by Noble Sissle and Eubie Blake, premiered at the 63rd Street Music Hall in New York City.... Continue →

12
May

1975 – Death of James Reese Europe, Jazz Pioneer

James Reese Europe, a trailblazing African American composer, conductor, and military bandleader, passed away on May 12, 1975 (note: actual death was... Continue →

12
May

1981 – "Bob Marley Passes Away, Leaving a Global Legacy"

On May 12, 1981, Bob Marley, the Jamaican reggae icon and global ambassador for peace and resistance, died in Miami at the age of 36. Marley’s... Continue →

13
May

1950 - Singer Stevie Wonder born

On May 13, 1950, Stevland Hardaway Judkins—better known as Stevie Wonder—was born in Saginaw, Michigan. Blind since shortly after birth, Wonder... Continue →

13
May

1960 – Leopold Senghor Advocates for African Socialism

On May 13, 1960, Senegalese poet and statesman Léopold Sédar Senghor delivered a speech outlining his vision for “African Socialism” during a... Continue →

13
May

1909 - Madame Sul-Te-Wan Becomes First Black Woman Contracted by Hollywood

On May 13, 1909, Madame Sul-Te-Wan, born Nellie Crawford in Louisville, Kentucky, made history as the first African American woman to sign a film... Continue →

14
May

1959 - Sidney Bechet, Jazz Legend, Dies in Paris

On May 14, 1959, Sidney Bechet, the groundbreaking soprano saxophonist and clarinetist, passed away in Paris at the age of 62. A New Orleans native... Continue →

14
May

1885 - Birthday of Jazz Legend King Oliver

On May 14, 1885, Joseph “King” Oliver was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. A legendary cornet player, bandleader, and composer, Oliver played a... Continue →

14
May

1970 – Stevie Wonder Releases “Signed, Sealed, Delivered”

On May 14, 1970, 20-year-old Stevie Wonder released the hit single “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I\'m Yours).” It marked a turning point in his... Continue →

14
May

1904 – The Jamestown Exposition Debuts “Negro Building”

On May 14, 1904, during the Jamestown Tercentennial Exposition in Norfolk, Virginia, African Americans were assigned a separate exhibit space—known... Continue →

15
May

1946 - Camilla Williams Debuts in "Madam Butterfly"

On May 15, 1946, Camilla Ella Williams made her historic debut as Cio-Cio San in Madam Butterfly with the New York City Opera, becoming the first... Continue →

15
May

1923 - First Black Play Premieres on Broadway

On May 15, 1923, The Chip Woman’s Fortune by Willis Richardson made history as the first dramatic work by an African American playwright to be... Continue →

15
May

2002 – Halle Berry Honored at Cannes for ‘Monster’s Ball’

On May 15, 2002, Halle Berry received special recognition at the Cannes Film Festival following her historic Academy Award win for Monster’s Ball.... Continue →

16
May

1990 - Death of Sammy Davis Jr., Iconic Entertainer

On this day, legendary performer Sammy Davis Jr. passed away in Beverly Hills, California, at the age of 64. Born in Harlem, Davis rose to fame as a... Continue →

16
May

1966 - Janet Jackson is Born

On this day, Janet Jackson was born in Gary, Indiana, as the youngest member of the iconic Jackson family. Beginning her career in television, she... Continue →

16
May

1930 - Birth of Jazz Vocal Virtuoso Betty Carter

On May 16, 1930, Betty Carter, the legendary American jazz singer known for her improvisational genius and fearless vocal style, was born in Flint,... Continue →

16
May

1953 – Birth of Pierce Freelon’s Father, Jazz Legend Nnenna Freelon

On May 16, 1953, Nnenna Freelon, the six-time Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist, was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Renowned for her commanding voice... Continue →

16
May

1927 – Death of Josiah Jesse Ransome-Kuti, Nigerian Composer

On May 16, 1927, Nigeria lost one of its cultural pioneers, Josiah Jesse Ransome-Kuti. A clergyman, music educator, and composer, Ransome-Kuti was... Continue →

16
May

1977 – Roots Wins Peabody Award

On May 16, 1977, the groundbreaking television miniseries Roots, based on Alex Haley’s novel, won a prestigious Peabody Award for excellence in... Continue →

17
May

1864 - Birth of a Musical Legend: Rachel Boone and the Rise of "Blind" Boone

On May 17, 1864, Rachel Boone, once enslaved by descendants of frontiersman Daniel Boone, escaped to a Union Army camp near Miami, Missouri. There,... Continue →

17
May

1931 – Birth of Elvin Jones, Jazz Drumming Icon

Born on May 17, 1931, in Pontiac, Michigan, Elvin Jones became one of the most influential jazz drummers of the 20th century. Best known for his work... Continue →

17
May

1912 – Birth of Dorothy West, Harlem Renaissance Author

Dorothy West, born on May 17, 1912, in Boston, Massachusetts, was a pioneering African American writer and a key figure of the Harlem Renaissance.... Continue →

17
May

1929 – First Black Sorority Steps onto Broadway

On May 17, 1929, members of Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA), the first African American sorority, performed a groundbreaking musical revue titled The Kappa... Continue →

19
May

1968 - The Birth of The Last Poets – Revolution in Verse

On May 19, 1968—Malcolm X's birthday and just weeks after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—The Last Poets were formed in Marcus... Continue →

19
May

1948 - Birth of Grace Jones – Music, Fashion, and Iconic Black Androgyny

Born May 19, 1948, in Spanish Town, Jamaica, Grace Jones rose to international fame as a singer, actress, and fashion icon who shattered norms around... Continue →

19
May

1930 - Birth of Lorraine Hansberry, Groundbreaking Playwright

Lorraine Hansberry was born in Chicago on this day in 1930. She would go on to become a trailblazing playwright, best known for A Raisin in the Sun,... Continue →

19
May

1959 - Lorraine Hansberry’s "A Raisin in the Sun" Wins New York Drama Critics' Circle Award

On May 19, 1959, Lorraine Hansberry became the first African American playwright to win the New York Drama Critics\' Circle Award for her... Continue →

19
May

2021 - Paul Mooney, Comedic Legend and Social Commentator, Dies

On May 19, 2021, the world lost Paul Mooney, a legendary comedian, writer, and unapologetic voice on race in America. Known for his sharp wit and... Continue →

19
May

1973 – Bob Marley Performs for African Liberation Day

On May 19, 1973, Bob Marley and the Wailers performed at a benefit concert in Kingston, Jamaica for African Liberation Day, connecting reggae music... Continue →

19
May

1978 – Guyanese Artist Denis Williams Opens African Art Exhibit in Lagos

On May 19, 1978, Guyanese archaeologist, painter, and novelist Denis Williams opened a groundbreaking African art exhibit in Lagos, Nigeria,... Continue →

20
May

1952 - Birth of Mr. T, Iconic Actor and Cultural Figure

Actor and entertainer Lawrence Tero, famously known as Mr. T, was born in Chicago, Illinois. Best known for his tough-guy persona, gold chains, and... Continue →

20
May

1910 - Birth of Scatman Crothers – Voice, Versatility, and Vintage Cool

On May 20, 1910, Benjamin “Scatman” Crothers was born in Terre Haute, Indiana. With a career spanning over five decades, Crothers became an... Continue →

21
May

1921 – Shuffle Along Debuts on Broadway

On May 21, 1921, Shuffle Along, one of the first major Broadway musicals written, produced, and performed by African Americans, opened at the 63rd... Continue →

21
May

1983 – Motown Celebrates 25th Anniversary on NBC

On May 21, 1983, the world watched as Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever aired on NBC, marking the 25th anniversary of the iconic Black-owned music... Continue →

21
May

1971 – Marvin Gaye Releases “What’s Going On” Album

On May 21, 1971, Marvin Gaye released his revolutionary album What’s Going On, a soulful, socially conscious masterpiece that tackled police... Continue →

22
May

2002 - Aretha’s Influence Echoes: Chaka Khan Shares Her Vocal Breakthrough

In a 2002 interview, legendary singer Chaka Khan revealed how deeply she was influenced by Aretha Franklin early in her career. Back in 1969, while... Continue →

22
May

1967 - Death of Langston Hughes, Iconic Poet of the Harlem Renaissance

On May 22, 1967, Langston Hughes—renowned poet, playwright, and central figure of the Harlem Renaissance—passed away in New York City at the age... Continue →

22
May

1966 - Bill Cosby Becomes First African American to Win Best Actor Emmy

On this day, Bill Cosby made history as the first African American to win the Emmy Award for Best Actor in a Dramatic Series. He earned the honor for... Continue →

22
May

1948 - Claude McKay, Harlem Renaissance Icon, Passes Away

Claude McKay, a pioneering poet and novelist of the Harlem Renaissance, dies at age 58. Known for works like Home to Harlem—the first best-selling... Continue →

22
May

1940 - Bernard Shaw, Trailblazing Broadcast Journalist, Born

On May 22, 1940, Bernard Shaw was born in Chicago, Illinois. A pioneering African American journalist, Shaw became CNN’s chief anchor and was a key... Continue →

22
May

1921 - Premiere of "Shuffle Along" on Broadway

\"Shuffle Along,\" the first major African American musical, premiered on Broadway on May 22, 1921. Created by Noble Sissle and Eubie Blake, this... Continue →

23
May

1953 - Dr. Rufus Clement elected to Atlanta Board of Education.

On May 23, 1953, Dr. Rufus E. Clement, then president of Atlanta University, was elected to the Atlanta Board of Education, becoming the first... Continue →

23
May

1981 - Official Funeral of Bob Marley

Reggae icon and cultural revolutionary Robert Nesta “Bob” Marley was honored with a state funeral in Jamaica following his death at age 36. The... Continue →

23
May

1921 - "Shuffle Along" Opens on Broadway

Shuffle Along, the groundbreaking musical featuring an all-Black cast and creative team, premiered at the 63rd Street Music Hall in New York City.... Continue →

24
May

1966 - Leontyne Price Opens Metropolitan Opera Season

On May 24, 1966, legendary soprano Leontyne Price made history by opening the Metropolitan Opera's season in New York City. She performed the title... Continue →

24
May

1944 - Birth of Patti LaBelle

Patricia Louise Holte is born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She will rise to international fame under the name Patti LaBelle, becoming one of the... Continue →

24
May

1943 – Bobby Watson Is Born

On May 24, 1943, Bobby Watson, the influential jazz alto saxophonist and composer, was born in Lawrence, Kansas. Renowned for his soulful tone and... Continue →

24
May

1976 – “Roots” Wins Pulitzer Prize

On May 24, 1976, Alex Haley’s groundbreaking novel Roots: The Saga of an American Family was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction.... Continue →

24
May

1983 – Vanessa Williams Becomes Miss America Finalist

On May 24, 1983, Vanessa Williams was officially named a finalist in the Miss America pageant, setting the stage for her historic win later that year... Continue →

24
May

1986 – Run-D.M.C. Drops “Raising Hell”

On May 24, 1986, Run-D.M.C. released their third studio album, Raising Hell, a defining moment in hip-hop history. Featuring the groundbreaking... Continue →

24
May

1933 – Louis Gossett Jr. Is Born

On May 24, 1933, Louis Gossett Jr. was born in Brooklyn, New York. A legendary actor of stage and screen, Gossett became the first African American... Continue →

24
May

1981 — The Death of Bob Marley Honored Globally

While Bob Marley passed away on May 11, 1981, his global state funeral was held on May 24, 1981 in Kingston, Jamaica, cementing his legacy as a... Continue →

25
May

1986 - Race Against Time: A Global Run for Africa

On May 25, 1986, approximately 30 million people across 76 countries participated in pop singer Bob Geldof's "Race Against Time." This global relay... Continue →

25
May

1949 – Birth of Novelist Jamaica Kincaid

On this day, Jamaica Kincaid was born in St. John's, Antigua. A celebrated novelist and essayist, Kincaid would go on to write powerful works such as... Continue →

25
May

1943 - Birth of Leslie Uggams, Trailblazing Singer and Actress

Leslie Uggams, the award-winning singer and actress known for breaking racial barriers in entertainment, was born in New York City. She made her... Continue →

25
May

1878 - Birth of Tap Dance Legend Bill "Bojangles" Robinson

Tap dancer Luther Robinson—better known as Bill "Bojangles" Robinson—was born in Richmond, Virginia. Renowned for his innovative footwork and... Continue →

26
May

1926 - Miles Davis, Jazz Innovator, Born in Illinois

On May 26, 1926, Miles Dewey Davis III was born in Alton, Illinois. Davis would become one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century,... Continue →

26
May

1949 - Birth of Iconic Actress Pam Grier

Pam Grier, born on May 26, 1949, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, rose to fame as a pioneering African American actress in the 1970s. Known for her... Continue →

26
May

1799 – Birth of Alexander Pushkin, Father of Russian Literature

Aleksandr Sergeevich Pushkin was born in Moscow on May 26, 1799. Of African descent through his great-grandfather Abram Petrovich Gannibal—an... Continue →

26
May

1967 — Third World Press Founded to Amplify Black Literary Voices

On May 26, 1967, poet and educator Haki R. Madhubuti (formerly Don L. Lee), along with Johari Amini and Carolyn Rodgers, founded Third World Press in... Continue →

26
May

1983 — Jamaica Declares Bob Marley's Birthday a National Holiday

On May 26, 1983, the Jamaican government officially declared February 6, Bob Marley\'s birthday, a national holiday to honor the legendary... Continue →

27
May

1936 - Birth of Louis Gossett Jr., Academy Award-Winning Actor

Louis Gossett Jr. was born in Brooklyn, New York. A trailblazer in American cinema, Gossett made history by becoming the first African American male... Continue →

27
May

1977 - Louis Gossett Jr. Wins Best Supporting Actor at Cannes

On May 27, 1977, Louis Gossett Jr. received the Best Supporting Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival for his role in the acclaimed film Sadat.... Continue →

27
May

2007 - Miles Davis Releases “On the Corner” Sessions Material

On May 27, 2007, Columbia/Legacy Records released The Complete On the Corner Sessions, showcasing Miles Davis’s experimental jazz-funk recordings... Continue →

27
May

1927 - Birth of Harlem Photographer Austin Hansen, Chronicler of Black New York

On May 27, 1927, Austin Hansen was born in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Hansen became one of the most prolific Black photographers of the 20th... Continue →

27
May

1935 – Birth of Ramsey Lewis, Jazz Pianist and Composer

On May 27, 1935, Ramsey Lewis was born in Chicago, Illinois. A jazz pianist and composer, Lewis gained prominence with his trio in the 1960s,... Continue →

28
May

1944 - Birth of Soul Legend Gladys Knight

On this day, Gladys Knight—known as the "Empress of Soul"—was born in Atlanta, Georgia. A seven-time Grammy Award winner, she rose to fame as the... Continue →

28
May

1981 - Death of musician Mary Lou Williams

Mary Lou Williams, born Mary Elfrieda Scruggs on May 8, 1910, in Atlanta, Georgia, passed away on May 28, 1981, at the age of 71 in Durham, North... Continue →

28
May

1971 – Audre Lorde Publishes the First Cities

On May 28, 1971, Audre Lorde published her first volume of poetry, The First Cities, establishing her as a vital voice in American literature and... Continue →

28
May

1900 – Birth of Jazz Icon Tommy Ladnier

Tommy Ladnier, a legendary jazz trumpeter, was born on May 28, 1900, in Mandeville, Louisiana. A key figure in the early development of jazz, Ladnier... Continue →

28
May

2010 – Ava DuVernay Launches AFFRM Film Collective

On May 28, 2010, filmmaker Ava DuVernay launched the African-American Film Festival Releasing Movement (AFFRM), a groundbreaking distribution... Continue →

28
May

1983 – Caribbean Artists Movement Reunites in London

On May 28, 1983, the Caribbean Artists Movement (CAM) held a special reunion event in London, bringing together figures like Kamau Brathwaite, Andrew... Continue →

28
May

1830 - Birth of Alexandre Dumas fils – Literary Legacy Beyond the Musketeers

On May 28, 1830, Alexandre Dumas fils, the son of celebrated novelist Alexandre Dumas père and a Black Haitian-descended mother, was born in Paris,... Continue →

29
May

1974 – Dionne Warwick Receives Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

On May 29, 1974, music legend Dionne Warwick was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, honoring her decades of excellence in the music... Continue →

29
May

1953 – Birth of Danny Elfman, Composer Behind “Tales from the Hood” Score

On May 29, 1953, Danny Elfman was born—not African American himself, but he played a critical behind-the-scenes role in Black horror cinema by... Continue →

29
May

1970 – Launch of Black World Journal’s “Pan-African Issue”

On May 29, 1970, Black World (formerly Negro Digest) released its special “Pan-African Issue,” featuring essays and poetry from across the... Continue →

29
May

1948 – Birth of Jamaican Poet Mutabaruka

Jamaican poet, musician, and cultural critic Mutabaruka was born on May 29, 1948. Renowned for his fiery spoken word and Rastafarian philosophy,... Continue →

30
May

1903 - Countee Cullen, Poet of the Harlem Renaissance, Is Born

On May 30, 1903, Countee Cullen was born in Louisville, Kentucky. Cullen emerged as one of the leading voices of the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural... Continue →

30
May

1958 – Birth of Jamaican Activist Mutabaruka

On May 30, 1958, Mutabaruka—Jamaican dub poet, activist, and Rastafarian philosopher—was born in Kingston, Jamaica. Renowned for his fusion of... Continue →

31
May

1909 – Birth of Jazz Legend Benny Goodman, Who Elevated Black Musicians

While Benny Goodman, born May 31, 1909, is known as the “King of Swing,” his contributions to racial integration in American music were... Continue →

31
May

1987 – Michael Jackson’s “Bad” Music Video Filmed in Harlem

On May 31, 1987, Michael Jackson began filming the music video for “Bad,” directed by Martin Scorsese and shot in Harlem and Brooklyn. The video... Continue →

1
Jun

1937 - Morgan Freeman Is Born

Born on June 1, 1937, in Memphis, Tennessee, Morgan Freeman would become one of the most iconic and respected actors in American cinema. Known for... Continue →

2
Jun

1868 - John Hope was born on this day.

On this day 1868 - John Hope was born on this day in Augusta, Georgia. John Hope was an African American educator and political activist, the first... Continue →

2
Jun

1987 – Aretha Franklin Receives Honorary Degree from Harvard

On June 2, 1987, Aretha Franklin was awarded an honorary Doctor of Music degree by Harvard University, one of the first Black women to receive such a... Continue →

2
Jun

1979 – Saint Lucian Derek Walcott Wins MacArthur Fellowship

On June 2, 1979, Saint Lucian poet and playwright Derek Walcott was awarded a MacArthur Fellowship, becoming one of the first Caribbean recipients of... Continue →

2
Jun

1978 – Jamaican-born Cy Grant Launches Concord Multicultural Theatre

On June 2, 1978, Cy Grant, a Guyanese-born British actor and RAF veteran, launched the Concord Multicultural Theatre in London. Grant envisioned the... Continue →

2
Jun

1976 – Steve Biko Publishes Final Essay Before Arrest

On June 2, 1976, South African activist Steve Biko published one of his final essays under the pseudonym “Frank Talk” in the journal Black... Continue →

2
Jun

1904 – Death of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor

June 2, 1904, marked the death of British-African composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor at just 37. Born to a Sierra Leonean father and British mother,... Continue →

3
Jun

1942 - Singer Curtis Mayfield was born

On this day in 1942, Curtis Mayfield was born in Chicago, Illinois, where he quickly absorbed the music of that area, which consisted of the local... Continue →

3
Jun

1906 - Entertainer Josephine Baker born

Born on June 3, 1906, in St. Louis, Missouri, Josephine Baker would rise from poverty to become one of the most dazzling performers of the 20th... Continue →

3
Jun

1877 - Roland Hayes was born

On this day in 1877, Roland Hayes, the first African American to give a recital in Boston's Symphony Hall, was born.

3
Jun

1871 - Miles Vandehurst Lynk was born

ON this date in 1871, Miles Vandehurst Lynk, founder of the first African American medical journal and organizer of the National Medical Association,... Continue →

3
Jun

1980 – Senegalese Film “Ceddo” Banned in France

On June 3, 1980, the French government formally banned the Senegalese film Ceddo, directed by Ousmane Sembène, one of Africa’s greatest... Continue →

4
Jun

1989 - Four African Americans win Tony Awards

On this day in 1989, Four African Americans win Tony Awards for Black and Blue

4
Jun

1973 - Arna Bontemps Dies, Harlem Renaissance Author

On June 4, 1973, Arna Bontemps, a key literary figure of the Harlem Renaissance, passed away at age 71. A poet, novelist, historian, and children’s... Continue →

4
Jun

1972 - Angela Davis Acquitted of All Charges

On June 4, 1972, Black activist, scholar, and former UCLA professor Angela Davis was acquitted of all charges related to a 1970 courtroom shootout in... Continue →

4
Jun

1984 – Miss America Welcomes First Black Contestant from Arkansas

On June 4, 1984, Stephanie Adams became the first Black contestant to represent Arkansas in the Miss America pageant system. Her inclusion symbolized... Continue →

4
Jun

1973 – Hip-Hop Pioneer Grandmaster Caz Born

Grandmaster Caz (Curtis Brown) was born on June 4, 1973, in the Bronx, New York. Though primarily recognized within U.S. cultural history, his... Continue →

4
Jun

1979 – Ghanaian Filmmaker Kwaw Ansah Wins at FESPACO

On June 4, 1979, Ghanaian filmmaker Kwaw Ansah won top honors at the Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO) for his film... Continue →

4
Jun

1993 – Zozibini Tunzi, Miss Universe, Born in South Africa

Zozibini Tunzi was born on June 4, 1993, in Tsolo, South Africa. Though she would rise to global fame in 2019 as Miss Universe, her birth symbolizes... 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

1940 - The American Negro Theater organized

On this day in 1940, the American Negro Theater was organized by Frederick O'Neal and Abram Hill.

5
Jun

1928 — James Weldon Johnson Publishes God's Trombones

On June 5, 1928, poet and civil rights leader James Weldon Johnson released God’s Trombones: Seven Negro Sermons in Verse. The collection... Continue →

5
Jun

1989 – African American Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat's Legacy Celebrated in Paris

On June 5, 1989, the Musée d’Art Moderne in Paris hosted a retrospective celebrating Jean-Michel Basquiat, a Haitian-Puerto Rican American artist... 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

1989 – Morgan Freeman’s "Lean on Me" Hits Box Office

On June 6, 1989, the film Lean on Me starring Morgan Freeman as principal Joe Clark continued its strong box office run. The film, based on true... Continue →

6
Jun

1978 – Death of Hubert Ogunde, Father of Nigerian Theatre

June 6, 1978, marked the passing of Hubert Ogunde, often hailed as the “father of Nigerian theatre.” Ogunde revolutionized West African... Continue →

7
Jun

1987 - Lloyd Richards wins a Tony

On this day in 1987, Lloyd Richards wins a Tony as best director for the August Wilson play Fences. The play also wins Tony's for best play, best... Continue →

7
Jun

1958 - Singer Prince born

On this date in 1958, Composer, musician and singer Prince Rogers Nelson born in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

7
Jun

1943 - Poet Nikki Giovanni Born

On this day in 1943, Born Yolande Cornelia Giovanni, Jr. on June 7, 1943 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Nikki Giovanni became a leading poet of the Black... Continue →

7
Jun

1917 - Poet Gwendolyn Brooks born

Gwendolyn Brooks, the first African American to win the Pulitzer Prize, was born on June 7, 1917, in Topeka, Kansas. Her poetry captured the lived... Continue →

7
Jun

1868 - Marie Laveau, the "Queen of the Voodoo" dethroned.

On this day in 1868, Marie Laveau, the "Queen of the Voodoo," was dethroned because of old age. Believed to be born in New Orleans in 1794 and died... Continue →

7
Jun

1863 - Battle at Milliken's Bend

On this day in 1863, Three regiments and small detachment of white troops repulsed division of Texans in hand-to-hand battle at Milliken's Bend,... Continue →

7
Jun

1958 – Prince’s Mother, Mattie Della Shaw, Is Born

Mattie Della Shaw, mother of music icon Prince, was born on June 7, 1958, in Minneapolis. A jazz singer and cultural influence on her son, she helped... Continue →

7
Jun

1982 – The Debut Album “Prince” Goes Platinum

While not released on this date, Prince’s self-titled 1979 album was certified platinum by the RIAA on June 7, 1982, coinciding with his 24th... Continue →

7
Jun

1979 – Sony and CBS Sign Deal with Michael Jackson

On June 7, 1979, CBS Records and Sony Music finalized a distribution deal that would lead to Off the Wall and later Thriller, changing pop music... Continue →

8
Jun

1982 – Michael Jackson’s Thriller Begins Production

On June 8, 1982, Michael Jackson began production on the music video for Thriller, a groundbreaking visual and musical project that would transform... Continue →

8
Jun

1991 – Death of Jazz Legend Buck Clayton

Trumpeter Buck Clayton, a key figure in the swing era, died on June 8, 1991. Known for his work with Count Basie’s orchestra in the 1930s and... Continue →

8
Jun

1904 – Paul Laurence Dunbar Honored in London

On June 8, 1904, African American poet Paul Laurence Dunbar was honored during a literary reception in London, recognizing his influence across the... Continue →

9
Jun

1929 - Singer Johnny Ace born

On this day in 1939, R&B singer Johnny Ace was born John Marshall Alexander, Jr. in Memphis, Tennessee. His major hits include "My Song" and... Continue →

9
Jun

1980 – Paul Robeson Honored Posthumously with U.S. Postal Stamp Proposal

On June 9, 1980, civil rights advocates began a campaign to honor Paul Robeson—actor, singer, and activist—with a U.S. postage stamp. Robeson, a... Continue →

9
Jun

1904 – Birth of Kwame Nkrumah's Mentor, Kwegyir Aggrey

Born on June 9, 1904, Dr. James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey was a Ghanaian educator, scholar, and Pan-Africanist who profoundly influenced the next... Continue →

10
Jun

1941 - Death of Marcus Garvey

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

10
Jun

1910 - Rhythm & blues singer Howlin' Wolf is born.

On this day in 1910, Rhythm & blues singer Howlin' Wolf is born Chester Arthur Burnett in West Point, Mississippi. His most popular and influential... Continue →

10
Jun

1944 – Death of Eulalie Spence, Pioneer Black Caribbean Playwright

On June 10, 1944, Eulalie Spence, a playwright of Caribbean descent and a prominent figure of the Harlem Renaissance, passed away. Born in the... Continue →

11
Jun

1920 - Singer Hazel Scott, was born

On this day in 1920, Singer Hazel Scott was born

11
Jun

1991 - Natalie Cole's album, Unforgettable is released.

On this day in 1991, Natalie Cole's album, Unforgettable is released.

11
Jun

1988 – James Baldwin’s The Price of the Ticket Premieres in London

On June 11, 1988, the documentary James Baldwin: The Price of the Ticket premiered in London. The film is a poetic tribute to the celebrated African... Continue →

11
Jun

1981 – Bob Marley Tribute Concert Held in Kingston, Jamaica

On June 11, 1981, a massive tribute concert for Bob Marley was held in Kingston, Jamaica, just one month after his death. The event, attended by... Continue →

11
Jun

1982 – “Roots: The Next Generations” Wins NAACP Image Award

On June 11, 1982, the acclaimed television miniseries Roots: The Next Generations received the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Drama Series. A... 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

1876 - The first known monument erected by African Americans in Philadelphia's Fairmont park

The first known monument erected by African Americans to honor one of our heroes is dedicated to Richard Allen in Philadelphia's Fairmont park.

12
Jun

2009 — Zapiro Publishes Mandela Cartoon on Justice and Race

On June 12, 2009, South African cartoonist Jonathan Shapiro, known as Zapiro, published a controversial cartoon depicting Nelson Mandela holding a... Continue →

12
Jun

2013 – “Nigerian Author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Honored by Women’s Prize for Fiction”

On June 12, 2013, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie won the Women’s Prize for Fiction (formerly the Orange Prize) for her novel Americanah. The book... Continue →

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

1971 — Geraldine McCullough Wins Widener Gold Medal

On June 13, 1971, acclaimed sculptor Geraldine McCullough was awarded the Widener Gold Medal by the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. The honor... Continue →

13
Jun

1912 — Ralph Ellison Born

On June 13, 1912, Ralph Ellison was born in Oklahoma City. His most celebrated work, Invisible Man, won the National Book Award in 1953 and remains a... Continue →

13
Jun

1970 — Soul Train Syndication Discussions Begin

On June 13, 1970, Don Cornelius entered serious negotiations to syndicate Soul Train nationally. Originally a local Chicago program, the show had... Continue →

13
Jun

1940 – Léon-Gontran Damas Publishes Pigments

On June 13, 1940, French Guianese poet Léon-Gontran Damas released Pigments, a fierce literary denunciation of colonial racism. A founder of the... Continue →

14
Jun

1946 - Marla Gibbs, television personality, born

On this day in 1946, Marla Gibbs, television personality, born

14
Jun

1941 - John Edgar Wideman, Rhodes scholar, writer, born

On this day in 1941, John Edgar Wideman, Rhodes scholar, writer, born

14
Jun

1939 - The Ethel Waters Show

On this day in 1939, The Ethel Waters Show, a variety special appears on NBC. It is the first time an African American appears on television

14
Jun

1884 – Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Born, Celebrated Afro-British Composer

Born on June 14, 1875, in London, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor was a prodigious composer of African and English descent who achieved international fame in... Continue →

15
Jun

1968 - Ellen Holly becomes the first African American on daytime television

On this day in 1968, Ellen Holly becomes the first African American on daytime television as Carla on One Life to Live.

15
Jun

1921 - Erroll Garner, keyboardist born

On this day in 1921, Erroll Garner born in Pittsburgh,PA

15
Jun

1921 - Bessie Coleman receives pilot's license

On June 15, 1921, Bessie Coleman was admitted into the Caudron Brothers’ School of Aviation in France after being denied entry into American flight... Continue →

15
Jun

2024 – NMAAHC Hosts Juneteenth Community Day

The National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., hosted a Juneteenth Community Day, featuring educational programs,... Continue →

16
Jun

1975 - Adam Wade hosts the Nationally televised game show Musical Chairs.

On this day in 1975, Adam Wade hosts the Nationally televised game show Musical Chairs. He is the first African American game show host.

16
Jun

1930 – African American Aviator Bessie Coleman Honored Posthumously

Though she died in 1926, Bessie Coleman—the first African American woman pilot—was posthumously honored by Black aviators on June 16, 1930, in a... Continue →

16
Jun

1904 – W.E.B. Du Bois Delivers “The Souls of White Folk” Lecture

On June 16, 1904, W.E.B. Du Bois delivered an early version of what would later become his essay The Souls of White Folk, exploring whiteness,... Continue →

16
Jun

1943 – Joseph Laroche, Titanic’s Only Black Passenger, Born in Haiti

Joseph Philippe Lemercier Laroche, the only known Black passenger on the RMS Titanic, was born on June 16, 1886, in Cap-Haïtien, Haiti. A brilliant... Continue →

17
Jun

1948 - Actress Phylicia Rashad born

On this date in 1948, Actress Phylicia Rashad was born in Houston, Texas.

17
Jun

1937 - Journalist Robert Maynard born

ON this date in 1937, Journalist Robert Clyve Maynard, owner, editor and publisher of "The Oakland Tribune," was born in the borough of Brooklyn, NY.

17
Jun

1928 - Singer James Brown born

On this date in 1928, Blues singer, "the Godfather of Soul," James Brown was born in Pulaski, Tennessee.

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 →

18
Jun

1941 - George Washington Carver was awarded an honorary Doctorate

On this date in 1941, Tuskegee scientist George Washington Carver was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree by the University of Rochester.

18
Jun

1971 – Blue Magic Formed, Launching Philadelphia Soul Legacy

On June 18, 1971, Blue Magic, one of Philadelphia’s premier soul groups, was officially formed. Known for their smooth harmonies and romantic... Continue →

18
Jun

1965 – Sallye Bell Davis, Activist and Mother of Miles Davis, Passes

On June 18, 1965, Sallye Bell Davis, an influential music teacher, civil rights advocate, and mother of jazz legend Miles Davis, passed away. A... Continue →

20
Jun

1946 – Birth of Pianist André Watts

Renowned classical pianist André Watts was born on June 20, 1946, in Nuremberg, Germany, to an African American father and Hungarian mother. He... Continue →

20
Jun

1960 – Harry Belafonte Wins Emmy Award

On June 20, 1960, Harry Belafonte became the first African American to win an Emmy Award for his television special \"Tonight with Belafonte.\" The... Continue →

21
Jun

2001 - Bluesman John Lee Hooker dies

On June 21, 2001, legendary blues musician John Lee Hooker passed away at the age of 83. Hooker was one of the most influential blues artists of all... Continue →

21
Jun

1859 – Birth of Henry Ossawa Tanner, Pioneering African American Artist

Henry Ossawa Tanner was born on June 21, 1859, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He became the first African American painter to gain international... Continue →

22
Jun

1943 - W.E.B. Du Bois Joins National Institute of Arts and Letters

On June 22, 1943, W.E.B. Du Bois was inducted into the National Institute of Arts and Letters, becoming its first African American member. A renowned... Continue →

22
Jun

1909 - Birth of Dancer and Anthropologist Katherine Dunham

Katherine Dunham, an influential African American dancer, choreographer, and anthropologist, was born on June 22, 1909. She revolutionized American... Continue →

22
Jun

1947 - Birth of Science Fiction Writer Octavia Butler

Octavia Butler, a groundbreaking African American science fiction writer, was born on June 22, 1947. Known for works like \"Kindred\" and \"Parable... Continue →

23
Jun

1921 – “Shuffle Along” Opens on Broadway

On June 23, 1921, Shuffle Along debuted at the 63rd Street Theatre in New York City, marking a significant milestone in African American theatrical... Continue →

23
Jun

1997 – Death of Betty Shabazz

Betty Shabazz, the widow of Malcolm X and a prominent civil rights advocate, died on June 23, 1997, from burns sustained in a fire set by her... Continue →

24
Jun

Day of the Caboclo Celebrated in Brazil (Annually on June 24)

June 24 marks the Day of the Caboclo in Brazil, a public holiday in the state of Amazonas celebrating the contributions of the Caboclo... Continue →

25
Jun

2009 – Death of Michael Jackson

On June 25, 2009, Michael Jackson, known as the \"King of Pop,\" passed away at the age of 50. Jackson\'s influence on music, dance, and popular... Continue →

26
Jun

1956 – Death of Jazz Trumpeter Clifford Brown

Clifford Brown, a highly influential jazz trumpeter, died in a car accident on June 26, 1956, at the age of 25. Despite his short career, Brown\'s... Continue →

27
Jun

1872 – Birth of Paul Laurence Dunbar, Renowned African-American Poet

Paul Laurence Dunbar was born on June 27, 1872, in Dayton, Ohio. He gained national recognition for his dialectic poetry and was one of the first... Continue →

27
Jun

1987 – Whitney Houston’s Album Debuts at No. 1 on Billboard

On June 27, 1987, Whitney Houston made music history when her album \"Whitney\" debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. She became the... Continue →

27
Jun

2023 – Opening of the International African American Museum

On June 27, 2023, the International African American Museum (IAAM) officially opened in Charleston, South Carolina. Located at Gadsden\'s Wharf, a... Continue →

29
Jun

1969 – Harlem Cultural Festival Begins

The Harlem Cultural Festival commenced on June 29, 1969, in Mount Morris Park (now Marcus Garvey Park), Harlem, New York. Often dubbed the \"Black... Continue →

29
Jun

1943 – Birth of Singer Little Eva

Eva Narcissus Boyd, known professionally as Little Eva, was born on June 29, 1943, in Belhaven, North Carolina. She gained fame with her 1962 hit... Continue →

29
Jun

1886 – Birth of Photographer James Van Der Zee

James Van Der Zee, a prominent African American photographer, was born on June 29, 1886. He is best known for his portraits of Black New Yorkers... Continue →

29
Jun

1913 – Filming of "Lime Kiln Field Day"

On June 29, 1913, production began on \"Lime Kiln Field Day,\" one of the earliest films to feature an all-Black cast. Starring Bert Williams, the... Continue →

29
Jun

2018 – Melody Barnes Appointed to Lead Thomas Jefferson Foundation

On June 29, 2018, Melody Barnes was appointed as the first African American chair of the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, which oversees Monticello. Her... Continue →

30
Jun

1969 – Harlem Cultural Festival

While the Harlem Cultural Festival began on June 29, 1969, its continuation on June 30 featured performances by prominent African American artists.... Continue →

1
Jul

1924 - Black named soloist with Boston Symphony Orchestra

On this date in 1924, Roland Hayes, a pioneering African American tenor, was named a soloist with the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Born in 1887 in a... Continue →

1
Jul

1899 - The Father of Gospel Music, Thomas Dorsey, born in Villa Rica, GA

On this date in 1899, Thomas A. Dorsey, known as the Father of Gospel Music, was born, in Villa Rica, Georgia. Originally a blues musician, Dorsey... Continue →

1
Jul

1971 – Birth of Missy Elliott, Influential Hip-Hop Artist

Melissa Arnette \"Missy\" Elliott was born on July 1, 1971. She rose to prominence as a groundbreaking rapper, singer, and producer, known for her... Continue →

2
Jul

1935 - Born on this day Edward Bullins

On this date in 1935, Ed Bullins was born. He was a groundbreaking playwright and a major figure in the Black Arts Movement, known for his works that... Continue →

2
Jul

2021 – Release of "Summer of Soul"

On July 2, 2021, the documentary \"Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)\" was released. Directed by Ahmir \"Questlove\"... Continue →

3
Jul

1941 - Cab Calloway and his Orchestra recorded the standard, St. James Infirmary.

On this date in 1941, Cab Calloway and his orchestra recorded the famous jazz standard "St. James Infirmary Blues". This song, originally a... Continue →

3
Jul

1983 - Calvin Smith, fastest man alive

On this date in 1983, Calvin Smith of the United States became the fastest man alive, setting a new 100m world record with a time of 9.93 seconds... Continue →

3
Jul

1962 - Jackie Robinson named to Baseball Hall of Fame.

On this date in 1962, Jackie Robinson was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential figures in... Continue →

3
Jul

1956 - Montel Williams born.

On this date in 1956, Montel Williams was born. He is an American television personality, actor, and former Navy officer, best known for hosting the... Continue →

3
Jul

1953 - Harry Belafonte on the cover of Ebony magazine

On this date in 1953, Harry Belafonte made history by appearing on the cover of Ebony magazine alongside actress Janet Leigh and film star Tony... Continue →

3
Jul

1940 - Fontella Bass is Born

On this date in 1940, Fontella Bass was born in St. Louis, Missouri. She was an iconic American singer known for her powerful voice and contributions... Continue →

3
Jul

1936 - John Hope honored by NAACP

On this date in 1936, John Hope, who was the president of Atlanta University, was honored in New York City by the NAACP (National Association for the... Continue →

3
Jul

1929 - David Lynch, hall of fame member of the Platters, is born.

On this date in 1929, David Lynch, a legendary member of the iconic Platters, was born. He became a key figure in the group, which is known for its... Continue →

3
Jul

1950 – Hazel Scott Show Premiere—A Television First

On July?3,?1950, Trinidadian-born jazz pianist and actress Hazel Scott became the first Black woman to host her own U.S. network television show with... Continue →

3
Jul

2021 – First National Crown Day: Honoring the CROWN Act

On July?3,?2021, the first National Crown Day was held to commemorate the federal signing of the CROWN Act, combatting hair discrimination toward... Continue →

4
Jul

1900 - Louis ("Satchmo") Armstrong born

On this date in 1900, Louis Armstrong, known as "Satchmo," was born, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He would go on to become one of the most influential... Continue →

4
Jul

1963 - Marian Anderson and Ralph Bunche receive the first Medals of Freedom.

On this date in 1963, Marian Anderson, the renowned African American contralto, and Ralph Bunche, the distinguished diplomat and Nobel Peace Prize... Continue →

4
Jul

1876 - The famous African painter EM Bannister, is awarded the gold medal for his painting "Under the Oaks"

On this date in 1876, Edward Mitchell Bannister, an acclaimed African American painter, was awarded the gold medal for his painting "Under the Oaks"... Continue →

4
Jul

1845 - Wildfire Lewis, aka Mary Edmonia Lewis, sculptor, born

On this date in 1845, Mary Edmonia Lewis, also known as Wildfire Lewis, was born. She was a groundbreaking sculptor of African-American and Native... Continue →

4
Jul

1940 – Opening of the American Negro Exposition

The American Negro Exposition (Black World’s Fair) opened in Chicago on July 4, 1940, marking the 75th anniversary of Emancipation. President... Continue →

4
Jul

1989 – Public Enemy Releases “Fight the Power”

Legendary hip-hop group Public Enemy released “Fight the Power” on July 4, 1989, via Motown Records. Commissioned for Spike Lee’s film Do the... Continue →

6
Jul

1971 - Death of Louis ("Satchmo ") Armstrong

On this date in 1971, the legendary jazz musician Louis "Satchmo" Armstrong passed away at the age of 69. Armstrong, one of the most influential... Continue →

6
Jul

1931 - Singer and actor Della Reese born

On this date in 1931, Della Reese was born Delorese Patricia in Detroit, Michigan. She became an iconic jazz vocalist, actress, and television... Continue →

7
Jul

1915 - Famous writer Margret Walker, born

ON this date in 1915, Margaret Walker, the famous American writer, was born in Birmingham, Alabama. She is best known for her novel "Jubilee", which... Continue →

8
Jul

1914 - Famous jazz singer Billy Eckstine was born

On this date in 1914, Billy Eckstine was born, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was a groundbreaking jazz and pop singer, bandleader, and musician... Continue →

9
Jul

1901 - Jester Hairston born

On this date in 1901, Jester Hairston was born. He was an American composer, songwriter, choral conductor, and actor. He is best known for his work... Continue →

10
Jul

1941 - Ferdinand ("Jelly Roll") Morton passes away.

On this date in 1941, Ferdinand "Jelly Roll" Morton, one of the most influential early jazz pianists and composers, passed away, at the age of 56 in... Continue →

11
Jul

1925 - Mattiwilda Dobbs, opera coloratura, born.

On this date in 1925, Mattiwilda Dobbs was born. She was an influential African American soprano opera singer, known for breaking barriers in the... Continue →

12
Jul

1937 - William ("Bill") Henry Cosby was born on this day.

On this date in 1937, Bill Cosby was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He became widely known as a comedian, actor, and producer, particularly for... Continue →

12
Jul

1936 - Actress and founder of the Negro People's Theater, Rose McClendon dies

On this date in 1936, Rose McClendon, an influential African-American actress and founder of the Negro People's Theatre, passed away. McClendon was a... Continue →

12
Jul

1926 - Beah Richards was born

On this date in 1926, Beah Richards, born Beulah Elizabeth Richardson in Vicksburg, Mississippi, was an acclaimed American actress, poet, playwright,... Continue →

14
Jul

1940 - Lady Bo birthday.

On this date in 1940, Peggy Jones, also known as Lady Bo, was indeed a trailblazer as Bo Diddley's original girl guitar player. She made a... Continue →

15
Jul

1929 - Guitarist and author, Francis Bebey was born

On this date in 1929, Francis Bebey was born, was a Cameroonian musician, guitarist, and author. He is well-known for his contributions to African... Continue →

16
Jul

1991 - Musician Miles Davis named a Knight

On this date in 1991, Miles Davis, one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time, was named a Knight in the French Legion of Honor. This... Continue →

16
Jul

1977 - Janelle Penny Commissiong wins the Miss Universe title

On this date in 1977, Janelle Penny Commissiong of Trinidad and Tobago made history by becoming the first Black woman to win the Miss Universe title.... Continue →

16
Jul

1936 - The movie, Green Pastures, premieres in New York's

On this date in 1936, the movie The Green Pastures premiered in New York City. The film, directed by Marc Connelly, is based on the 1929 play of the... Continue →

17
Jul

1959 - Death of singer Billie Holiday

On this date in 1959, Billie Holiday, the iconic American jazz and blues singer, passed away. She died from heart failure due to cirrhosis of the... Continue →

17
Jul

1967 - Innovative and famed jazz musician, John Coltrane dies

On this date in 1967, John Coltrane, one of the most influential and innovative jazz musicians in history, passed away at the age of 40. His... Continue →

17
Jul

1944 - Actress Diahnn Carrol born

On this date in 1935, Diahnn Carroll a celebrated American actress, singer, and model was born. She gained widespread fame for her groundbreaking... Continue →

17
Jul

1942 - Muhammad Ali (Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr) was born

On this date in 1942, Muhammad Ali, originally named Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr., was born, in Louisville, Kentucky. He became one of the most famous... Continue →

18
Jul

1918 - Nelson Mandela born

On this date in 1918, Nelson Mandela was born, in the village of Mvezo, in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. He would go on to become one of... Continue →

19
Jul

1925 - Entertainer and singer, Josephine Baker, makes her Paris debut

On July 19, 1925, the legendary entertainer Josephine Baker made her Paris debut at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in the revue La Revue Nègre.... Continue →

22
Jul

2001 - Actor Whitman Mayo dies

On this date in 2001, Whitman Mayo, an American actor best known for his role as Grady Wilson on the TV sitcom Sanford and Son, passed away on July... Continue →

23
Jul

1984 - Vanessa Williams relinquishes her Miss America crown.

On July 23, 1984, Vanessa Williams, who was the first African American to win the title of Miss America in 1983, resigned from her crown. The... Continue →

24
Jul

1921 - Jazz Musician Billy Taylor, born.

Billy Taylor, the renowned jazz musician, was born on July 24, 1921, in Greenville, North Carolina. He became a significant figure in jazz, known for... Continue →

24
Jul

1904 - Actor Ira Aldridge born

Ira Aldridge, born on July 24, 1904, was a pioneering African American actor. He became one of the first black actors to gain prominence in Europe,... Continue →

24
Jul

1807 - Ira Frederick Aldridge International known Shakespearean Actor born

Ira Frederick Aldridge, an African American Shakespearean actor, was born on July 24, 1807. He became one of the most celebrated actors of... Continue →

24
Jul

1802 - Alexandre Dumas is born

Alexandre Dumas was born on July 24, 1802, in Villers-Cotterêts, France to a Haitian mulatto, Thomas Alexandre Dumas, and Marie Labouret Dumas, a... Continue →

27
Jul

1824 - Alexandre Dumas fil born

Alexandre Dumas fils (1824–1895) was a French writer and playwright, best known for his novel La Dame aux Camélias (The Lady of the Camellias),... Continue →

29
Jul

1919 - First convention of the National Association

The National Association of Negro Musicians (NAMM) played a crucial role in promoting African American musicians and artists. The first convention in... Continue →

29
Jul

1909 - Chester Himes, crime novelist, born

Chester Himes, born on July 29, 1909, was an influential African American crime novelist known for his hard-boiled detective novels. His works often... Continue →

30
Jul

1970 - Author, Louis Lomax, dies

Louis Lomax, the influential African American journalist and author, passed away on July 30, 1970. He was known for his groundbreaking work in the... Continue →

30
Jul

1936 - Buddy Guy is born.

Buddy Guy was born on July 30, 1936, in Lettsworth, Louisiana. He is often considered one of the greatest blues guitarists of all time and is a key... Continue →

31
Jul

1961 - Laurence Fishburne, Jr. Born

Laurence Fishburne was born on July 31, 1961, in Augusta, Georgia. He began his acting career at a young age and quickly gained recognition. By 11,... Continue →

1
Aug

1930 - Actor Geoffrey Holder born

Geoffrey Holder, a renowned actor, dancer, choreographer, and artist, was born on August 1, 1930, in Port of Spain, Trinidad, in the British West... Continue →

2
Aug

1982 - Jackie Robinson is honored by the U.S. Post Service

On August 2, 1982, Jackie Robinson was honored by the U.S. Postal Service with a commemorative stamp. The stamp featured an image of Robinson, who... Continue →

2
Aug

1924 - James Baldwin was born on this day.

James Baldwin, one of the most important American writers and social critics, was born on August 2, 1924, in Harlem, New York. His works tackled... Continue →

4
Aug

1901 - Louis Armstrong born

On August 4, 1901, Louis Armstrong was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. He became one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time, known for... Continue →

5
Aug

1892 - Harriet Tubman receives a pension from Congress

On August 5, 1892, Harriet Tubman was granted a pension by the U.S. Congress for her services during the Civil War. Tubman, famous for her... Continue →

7
Aug

1936 - Roland Kirk, tenor saxophonist, blind, born

Rahsaan Roland Kirk was born on August 7, 1936. He was an innovative and multi-talented jazz musician known for his ability to play multiple wind... Continue →

7
Aug

1904 - First Black winner of Nobel Peace Prize was Ralph J Bunche born

Ralph J. Bunche was an influential diplomat, political scientist, and civil rights advocate. Born on August 7, 1904, in Detroit, Michigan, he played... Continue →

7
Aug

1867 - Death of actor Ira Aldridge

Ira Aldridge, the renowned African American actor, passed away on August 7, 1867. He was celebrated for his groundbreaking work in theater,... Continue →

8
Aug

1907 - Benny Carter, saxophonist, born

Benny Carter, born on August 8, 1907, was an influential American jazz saxophonist, composer, arranger, and bandleader. He was one of the... Continue →

9
Aug

1975 - Death of Julian Adderly

Julian "Cannonball" Adderley, a celebrated American jazz alto saxophonist, passed away on August 8, 1975, not August 9. His death was a great loss to... Continue →

9
Aug

1963 - Whitney Houston, singer born

Whitney Houston was born on August 9, 1963, in Newark, New Jersey, as you mentioned. She rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s, earning critical... Continue →

10
Aug

1948 - Singer Patti Austin born

Patti Austin, the American singer known for her work in R&B, jazz, and pop, was born on August 10, 1948. She has had a successful career,... Continue →

10
Aug

1880 - Composer and violinist, Clarence C White, dies

Clarence C. White, an American composer and violinist, indeed passed away on August 10, 1880. He was known for his work in the late 19th century and... Continue →

11
Aug

1925 - Carl Thomas Rowan was born

Carl Thomas Rowan was born on August 11, 1925, in Baltimore, Maryland. He was a prominent American journalist, author, and civil rights advocate.... Continue →

11
Aug

1921 - Author of "Roots", Alex Haley was born

Alex Haley, the author of the groundbreaking book Roots: The Saga of an American Family, was born on August 11, 1921, in Ithaca, New York. His work,... Continue →

11
Aug

1873 - J Rosamond Johnson born

J. Rosamond Johnson was an influential American composer, singer, and actor, born on August 11, 1873. He is best known for co-composing the music for... Continue →

12
Aug

1923 - Ophelia DeVore-Mitchell born

Ophelia DeVore-Mitchell was born on August 12, 1923. She was a pioneering model, businesswoman, and advocate for diversity in the fashion and beauty... Continue →

12
Aug

1990 - August Wilson's play The Piano Lesson

August Wilson's play The Piano Lesson wins the Pulitzer Prize for drama. It was his second Pulitzer, following Fences, which won in 1987. Wilson was... Continue →

12
Aug

1922 - Washington DC home of Frederick Douglas is declared a national shrine.

On August 12, 1922, the home of Frederick Douglass, known as Cedar Hill, was officially designated a national shrine in Washington, D.C. This... Continue →

12
Aug

1891 - Lillian Evans, world famous opera star, born

Lillian Evans, the world-famous opera star and founder of the National Negro Opera Company, was indeed a remarkable figure in American music history.... Continue →

13
Aug

1948 - Kathleen Battle, operatic soprano, born

Kathleen Battle, the celebrated operatic soprano, was born on August 13, 1948, in Portsmouth, Ohio. She is known for her stunning voice and has won... Continue →

14
Aug

1966 - Academy Award winning actress Halle Berry was born on this date.

Halle Berry was born on August 14, 1966, in Cleveland, Ohio. She's a renowned actress, known for her roles in films such as Monster's Ball, Die... Continue →

15
Aug

1931 - Spingarn Medal awarded to Richard B. Harrison

On August 15, 1931, Richard B. Harrison was awarded the Spingarn Medal for his outstanding portrayal of the character "The Lawd" in the play The... Continue →

15
Aug

1925 - Oscar Peterson, jazz musician, born

Oscar Peterson, one of the greatest jazz pianists of all time, was born on August 15, 1925, in Montreal, Canada. He was renowned for his virtuosic... Continue →

15
Aug

1817 - George Washington (Founder of Centralia) Born

George was born on August 15, 1817, in historic Frederick County, Virginia. His father was a slave and his mother a woman of English descent. When... Continue →

16
Aug

1958 - Angela Bassett, actress born on this date

Angela Bassett, the acclaimed American actress, was born on August 16, 1958. She is known for her powerful performances in both film and television,... Continue →

16
Aug

1970 - Activist, Angela Davis was named in a federal warrant

On August 16, 1970, Angela Davis, the political activist and scholar, was named in a federal arrest warrant in connection with her involvement in a... Continue →

16
Aug

1963 - First Black Artist to Design a U.S. Postage Stamp

On August 16, 1963, artist and graphic designer Charles White became the first Black artist to design a U.S. postage stamp. He created the stamp to... Continue →

16
Aug

1938 - Robert L. Johnson, blues singer, dies mysteriously

On August 16, 1938, Robert Johnson, the legendary blues singer and guitarist, died under mysterious circumstances. His death has been the subject of... Continue →

16
Aug

1922 - Author, Louis Lomax was born

Louis Lomax, an influential African American author, journalist, and television personality, was born on August 16, 1922. He is best known for his... Continue →

17
Aug

1990 - Jazz artist Pearl Bailey dies

Pearl Bailey, the renowned jazz singer and actress, passed away on August 17, 1990. She was known for her powerful voice, charismatic stage presence,... Continue →

17
Aug

1887 - Father of Black Nationalism Born

Marcus Garvey was born on August 17, 1887, in St. Ann's Bay, Jamaica. He became one of the most influential leaders in the history of the Black... Continue →

19
Aug

1954 - Ralph J Bunche named named undersecretary of the United Nations

On August 19, 1954, Ralph J. Bunche was named Undersecretary-General of the United Nations. Bunche was an influential African American diplomat and a... Continue →

20
Aug

1942 - Musician Isaac Hayes born

Isaac Hayes was born on August 20, 1942, in Covington, Tennessee. He was a legendary soul singer, songwriter, composer, and producer, best known for... Continue →

20
Aug

1989 - The first National Black Theater Festival closes in Winston-Salem, N.C.

The first National Black Theatre Festival (NBTF) concluded on August 20, 1989, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Founded by the late Larry Leon... Continue →

20
Aug

1944 - Anna Lucasta, starring Hilda Simms and Frederick O'Neal, opened on Broadway.

Anna Lucasta opened on Broadway on August 20, 1944, at the Mansfield Theatre (now the Brooks Atkinson Theatre). The play, written by Philip Yordan,... Continue →

21
Aug

1932 - Melvin Van Peebles, writer, dramatist, born

Melvin Van Peebles, born on August 21, 1932, was a highly influential American filmmaker, playwright, and novelist. He is often celebrated for his... Continue →

21
Aug

1904 - William "Count" Basie Born

William "Count" Basie, a legendary jazz pianist, composer, and bandleader, was born on August 21, 1904, in Red Bank, New Jersey. He became one of the... Continue →

22
Aug

1989 - Huey P. Newton killed

Huey P. Newton, the co-founder of the Black Panther Party, was tragically shot and killed on August 22, 1989, in Oakland, California. He was 47 years... Continue →

22
Aug

1917 - Blues artist John Lee Hooker born

John Lee Hooker was indeed a legendary figure in the blues genre. Born on August 22, 1917, in Clarkdale, Mississippi, his distinctive style became a... Continue →

25
Aug

1927 - First Black Wimbledon champion Althea Gibson born

Althea Gibson, the groundbreaking tennis player who became the first African American to win a Wimbledon singles title, was born on August 25, 1927.... Continue →

25
Aug

1746 - Bars Fight poem written

Lucy Terry, an African-American woman, wrote "Bars Fight" in 1746, making it the earliest known poem written by an African-American. The poem was... Continue →

26
Aug

1960 - Branford Marsalis, jazz saxophonist and icon, born.

Branford Marsalis, born on August 26, 1960, is a legendary jazz saxophonist. He comes from a musical family, with his father, Ellis Marsalis Jr.,... Continue →

26
Aug

1946 - Valerie Simpson's Birthday

Valerie Simpson, born on August 26, 1946, is a celebrated American singer, songwriter, and producer, best known as half of the musical duo Ashford... Continue →

26
Aug

1905 - George Washington, founder of the town of Centerville, WA. dies

George Washington, founder of the town of Centerville (later Centralia), Washington in 1875, dies

26
Aug

1900 - Hale Woodruff born

Hale Woodruff, born on August 26, 1900, was an influential African American artist and educator. He is best known for his role in founding the... Continue →

27
Aug

1963 - W.E.B. Du Bois died

W.E.B. Du Bois was a trailblazer in the fight for civil rights, education, and social justice. His contributions to both the academic world and the... Continue →

27
Aug

1989 - Chuck Berry Plays NASA

On August 27, 1989, Chuck Berry performed "Johnny B. Goode" for NASA engineers and scientists in celebration of Voyager 2's encounter with Neptune.... Continue →

27
Aug

1975 - Death of Emperor Haile Selassie

Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia passed away on August 27, 1975, under mysterious circumstances, though many regard his reign as one of significant... Continue →

27
Aug

1949 - Paul Robeson's scheduled singing appearance at the Lakeland picnic grounds

On August 27, 1949, Paul Robeson, the renowned African American singer, actor, and civil rights activist, was scheduled to perform at the Lakeland... Continue →

28
Aug

1988 - Beah Richards wins an Emmy for outstanding guest performance in the comedy series

On August 28, 1988, Beah Richards won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Performer in a Comedy Series for her role as Mama Joe in Frank's... Continue →

28
Aug

1943 - Lola Falana, dancer, born

Lola Falana, a talented dancer, singer, and actress, was born on August 28, 1942. She gained fame in the 1960s and 1970s, becoming one of the most... Continue →

28
Aug

1949 - Riot prevented Paul Robeson form singing

On August 28, 1949, Paul Robeson, the renowned African American singer, actor, and civil rights activist, was scheduled to perform at a picnic in... Continue →

29
Aug

1958 - Musician Michael Jackson was born

Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana. His groundbreaking contributions to music, dance, and pop culture... Continue →

29
Aug

1962 - Mal Goode becomes the first African American television news commentator

On August 29, 1962, Mal Goode made history by becoming the first African American television news commentator. He began working with ABC, where he... Continue →

29
Aug

1924 - Dinah Washington, singer, born

Dinah Washington, the legendary American singer, was born on August 29, 1924, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. She became one of the most influential and... Continue →

29
Aug

1920 - Jazz musician, Charlie "Bird" Parker was born in Kansas City

Charlie Parker, the legendary jazz saxophonist, was born on August 29, 1920. He's often considered one of the most influential figures in the... Continue →

31
Aug

2002 - Jazz great, vibraphonist, Lionel Hampton dies at age 94.

Lionel Hampton, the legendary jazz vibraphonist, passed away on August 31, 2002, at the age of 94. He was one of the pioneering figures in the... Continue →

31
Aug

1935 - Birthday of Eldridge Cleaver

Eldridge Cleaver was born on August 31, 1935. He was a prominent civil rights activist, writer, and political thinker, best known for his role in the... Continue →

1
Sep

1977 - Death of Ethel Waters

thel Waters, the legendary American singer and actress, passed away on September 1, 1977. She was known for her contributions to jazz, blues, and... Continue →

1
Sep

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

On October 1, 1945, noted R&B singer and songwriter, Donny Hathaway was born in Chicago, Illinois. Before his death, he often teamed up with... Continue →

2
Sep

1766 - Abolitionist, inventor, entrepreneur, James Forten was born on this date.

James Forten was born on September 2, 1766, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was a prominent African American abolitionist, inventor, and... Continue →

2
Sep

1946 - Singer and musician, Billy Preston was born

Billy Preston, often referred to as the "Fifth Beatle" due to his work with The Beatles, was born on September 2, 1946, in Houston, Texas. He was an... Continue →

3
Sep

1990 - Jonathan A. Rodgers becomes president of CBS's television stations division.

Jonathan A. Rodgers became president of CBS's television stations division on September 3, 1990. He was tasked with overseeing CBS's... Continue →

3
Sep

1919 - Lincoln Motion Picture Company releases its first feature length film.

On September 3, 1919, the Lincoln Motion Picture Company released its first feature-length film, The Realization of a Negro's Ambition. The film was... Continue →

3
Sep

1783 - Richard Allen, founder of the AME Church, purchases his freedom.

On September 3, 1783, Richard Allen, who would later become the founder of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, purchased his freedom. Born... Continue →

4
Sep

1981 - Singer Beyonce Knowles born on this date.

eyoncé Knowles was born on September 4, 1981. She's an incredibly talented singer, songwriter, and actress, known for being a part of Destiny's... Continue →

4
Sep

1963 - Katherine Dunham becomes the first Black choreographer for the Metropolitan Opera

On this date in 1963, Katherine Dunham (1909-2006). With the "Aida" production in 1963, Katherine Dunham becomes the first Black choreographer for... Continue →

4
Sep

1960 - Comedian and television actor, Damon Wayans was born.

Damon Wayans, the comedian and television actor, was born on September 4, 1960. He is best known for his work on shows like In Living Color and My... Continue →

4
Sep

1949 - Paul Robeson Concert Prevented by riot

On September 4, 1949, a concert by Paul Robeson in Peekskill, New York, was disrupted by a violent mob, preventing the performance from taking place.... Continue →

4
Sep

1923 - George Washington Carver of Tuskegee Institute received the Spingarn Medal.

On September 4, 1923, George Washington Carver, the renowned agricultural scientist and educator, received the Spingarn Medal. The medal, awarded by... Continue →

4
Sep

1848 - Inventor and engineer, Louis Latimer was born.

Louis Latimer was born on September 4, 1848, in Chelsea, Massachusetts. He was an African American inventor and engineer, best known for his work on... Continue →

5
Sep

1916 - Novelist Frank Yerby was born

On this date in 1916, Novelist Frank Garvin Yerby, winner of the O. Henry short story award winner, born on this date. He was the first African... Continue →

5
Sep

1859 - Our Nig by Harriet Wilsons was published on this date

Our Nig: Or, Sketches from the Life of a Free Black was published on September 5, 1859. Written by Harriet E. Wilson, it is considered the first... Continue →

5
Sep

1804 - Absalom Jones ordained a priest on this date

on September 5, 1804, Absalom Jones was ordained as the first African American priest in the Episcopal Church. This was a significant moment in... Continue →

6
Sep

1978 - Rapper Foxy Brown born on this date

Foxy Brown, born Inga DeCarlo Fung Marchand on September 6, 1978, is a Trinidadian-American rapper. She became well-known in the late 1990s for her... Continue →

6
Sep

1969 - Singer Macy Gray was born

Macy Gray, the American singer, songwriter, and actress, was born on September 6, 1969, in Canton, Ohio. She became widely known for her unique raspy... Continue →

7
Sep

1930 - Theodore Walter "Sonny" Rollins was born on this date

O this date in 1930,tenor saxophonist Theodore Walter "Sonny" Rollins, a powerful force in American jazz, was born.

8
Sep

1965 - Actress Dorothy Danridge's passes away

On this date in 1965, Actress Dorothy Danridge (41) dies in Hollywood.

9
Sep

1979 - Robert Guillaume wins an Emmy for best actor in a comedy series for Soap

On this date in 1979, Robert Guillaume wins an Emmy for best actor in a comedy series for Soap

9
Sep

1934 - Poet Sonia Sanchez was born

On this date in 1934, Poet Sonia Sanchez was born Wilsonia Benita Driver in Birmingham, Alabama.

9
Sep

1908 - writer, Richard Wright, author of "Native Son" and "Black Boy" was born, 1908

On this date in 1908, Writer Richard Wright, author of "Native Son" and "Black Boy" was born.

9
Sep

1847 - John R Lynch was born

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

9
Sep

1823 - Alexander Lucius Twilight

On this date in 1823, Alexander Lucius Twilight, born free in Vermont, was the first African-American person known to have earned a bachelor's degree... Continue →

9
Sep

1816 - Kentucky abolitionist and founder of Berea College, John Gregg Fee was born

On this date in 1816, Kentucky abolitionist and founder of Berea College, John Gregg Fee was born.

10
Sep

1976 - Death of Mordecai Johnson

Death of Mordecai Johnson (86), first Black president of Howard University, in Washington.

10
Sep

1965 - Father Divine dies

on this day in 1965, Father Divine, born George Baker, dies in Philadelphia.

10
Sep

1977 - Quincy Jones wins an Emmy for musical composition for the miniseries Roots.

On this date in 1977, Quincy Jones wins an Emmy for musical composition for the miniseries Roots. It is one of nine Emmy's for the series.

11
Sep

1959 - "Duke" Ellington get's the Spingarn Medal for his musical achievements

On September 11, 1959, Duke Ellington, the legendary jazz composer, pianist, and bandleader, was awarded the prestigious Spingarn Medal by the NAACP... Continue →

11
Sep

1977 - Quincy Jones wins an Emmy for musical composition for the miniseries Roots.

On September 11, 1977, Quincy Jones won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Musical Composition for a Limited Series, Movie or Special for his work on the... Continue →

12
Sep

1935 - Sculptor Richard H. Hunt (Master of Metals) was born

On this date in 1935, Sculptor Richard H. Hunt who soon became known as one of the "most gifted and assured artist working in the direct open form... Continue →

13
Sep

1998 - Andre Braugher wins Emmy

On this date in 1998, Andre Braugher wins Emmy for Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his role on Homicide: Life on the Street.

13
Sep

1996 - Tupac Shakur dies

ON this date in 1996, the talented and controversial rapper and actor Tupac Shakur dies in Las Vegas at the age of 25 a few days after sustaining 4... Continue →

13
Sep

1981 - Isabel Sanford wins an Emmy award as best comedic actress

On this date in 1981, Isabel Sanford wins an Emmy award as best comedic actress for The Jeffersons

13
Sep

1948 - Nell Carter was born

On this date in 1948, Tony Award winning Broadway singer Nell Carter was born.

13
Sep

1886 - Philosopher and first Black Rhodes Scholar, Alain L. Locke was born

On this date in 1886, Philosopher and first Black Rhodes Scholar, Alain L. Locke was born.

13
Sep

1953 - Iyanla Vanzant was born today

On this date in 1953, Iyanla Vanzant was born today

13
Sep

1964 - Tavis Smiley was born

On this date in 1964, Tavis Smiley was born.

13
Sep

1967 - Track star Michael Johnson was born.

On this date in 1967, Track star Michael Johnson was born today

15
Sep

1945 - Jessye Norman: Opera singer is born

ON this date in 1945, Jessye Norman, one the worlds most respected opera singers was born. Jessye was known for her stage presence, vocal range, and... Continue →

15
Sep

1943 - Actor and activist, Paul Robeson, portrays Othello for the 296th time at New York

ON this date in 1943, Actor and activist, Paul Robeson, portrays Othello for the 296th time at New York City's Shubert Theater.

15
Sep

1895 - Chiropractic is launched

On this date in 1895, D.D.Palmer the founder of Chiropractic adjusted Harvey Lillard an African America in Davenport Iowa. Mr. Lilllard was deaf and... Continue →

15
Sep

1889 - Poet Claude McKay was born on this day.

On this date in 1889, Claude McKay was born.

16
Sep

1990 - Keenan Ivory Wayans's In Living Color wins an Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series.

Keenan Ivory Wayans's In Living Color wins an Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series.

16
Sep

1989 - Debbye Turner is crowned Miss America.

On this dated in 1989, Debbye Turner is crowned Miss America. She is the third African American to win the crown since the inception of the pageant... Continue →

16
Sep

1933 - Emperor Jones, starring Paul Robeson as Brutus Jones is released by United Artists

On this dated in 1933, Emperor Jones, starring Paul Robeson as Brutus Jones is released by United Artists. It is Robeson's first starring movie role... Continue →

16
Sep

1925 - Blues Singer Ripley B.B. King born

On this date in 1925, blues singer Ripley "B.B." King was born in Itta Benna, Mississipi.

16
Sep

1921 - Singer Jon Hendricks, born

On this date in 1921, Singer Jon Hendricks, was born.

16
Sep

1889 - Associate Negro Press founder Claude A. Barnett was born

On this dated in 1889, in Sanford, Florida of Claude A. Barnett founder of the Associated Negro Press, the first and only Black news wire services in... Continue →

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

1970 - The Flip Wilson Show premieres on NBC.

On this date in 1970, The Flip Wilson Show premieres on NBC. It is the first prime time variety show starring an African American male since the Nat... Continue →

17
Sep

1968 - Julia premieres on NBC with Diahann Carroll in the title role.

ON this date in 1968, Julia premieres on NBC with Diahann Carroll in the title role. It is the first modern television show to star an African... 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

1971 - Jada Pinkett Smith, actress, born on this date.

Jada Pinkett Smith, actress, born on this date

18
Sep

1970 - Jimi Hendrix dies

On this date in 1970, Rocker Jimi Hendrix dies at 27.

19
Sep

1989 - First issue of Emerge magazine goes on sale.

First issue of Emerge magazine goes on sale.

19
Sep

1989 - Gordon Parks' film The Learning Tree is registered in the National Film Registry

On this date in 1989, Gordon Parks' film The Learning Tree is registered in the National Film Registry of the Library of Congress. It joins other... 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

1941 - Otis Redding, singer born

On this date in 1941, Singer Otis Redding born in Dawson, GA

19
Sep

1931 - Singer Brook Benton born

On this date in 1931, Brook Benton, holder of 16 gold records including "A Rainy Night in Georgia", was born

20
Sep

1987 - Alfre Woodard wins an Emmy on this date.

Alfre Woodard wins an Emmy for outstanding guest performance in the dramatic series L.A. Law. It is her second Emmy award, her first having been for... Continue →

20
Sep

1984 - The Cosby Show premieres on NBC.

On this date in 1984, The Cosby Show premieres on NBC.

20
Sep

1885 - Pianist Ferdinand "Jelly Roll" Morton was born

On this date in 1885, Pianist Ferdinand "Jelly Roll" Morton was born in New Orleans, Louisiana.

22
Sep

1998 - Sprinter Florence Griffith-Joyner (Flo-Jo) dies on this date.

Sprinter Florence Griffith-Joyner, winner of 3 gold and a silver medal at the 1988 Olympics, dies. She was 38.

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.

23
Sep

1954 - Playwright George C. Wolfe was born

On this date in 1954, Playwright George C. Wolfe was born

23
Sep

1930 - Singer Ray Charles was born

On this date in 1930, Blind composer, singer and musician Ray Charles Robinson born in Albany, Georgia.

23
Sep

1926 - Jazz musician, John Coltrane was born.

ON this date in 1926, Innovative and famed jazz musician, John Coltrane was born.

24
Sep

1954 - Designer Patrick Kelly was born

On this date in 1954, Patrick Kelly, first and only American fashion designer admitted to an exclusive organization of French fashion designers, was... Continue →

24
Sep

1953 - Take a Giant Step opens on Broadway

On this dated in 1953, Take a Giant Step, drama by playwright Louis Peterson, opened on Broadway.

24
Sep

1894 - Sociologist and author Edward Franklin Frazier was born

On this date in 1894, Sociologist and author Edward Franklin Frazier was born on this day. During his lofe time Frazier published 8 books, 89... Continue →

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

1991 - Blood of Jesus added to the Library of Congress's National Film Registry

On this date in 1991, Spencer Williams's 1942 movie Blood of Jesus is among the third group of 25 films added to the Library of Congress's National... Continue →

26
Sep

1968 - The Studio Museum of Harlem opens in NYC

On this date in 1968, The Studio Museum of Harlem opens in NYC

26
Sep

1937 - Singer Bessie Smith Died

On this date in 1937, Singer Bessie Smith dies of injuries sustained in an automobile accident near Clarksdale, Mississippi.

26
Sep

1929 - Biochemist Ida Stephens Owens was born

On this dated in 1929, Biochemist Ida Stephens Owens was born. Owens received a PhD. in Biology-Physiology from Duke University in 1967. At the... Continue →

26
Sep

1899 - Musician William Levi Dawson was born

On this date in 1899, William Levi Dawson, composer and arranger of music, was born in Anniston, Alabama. Among his songs are, "I Couldn't Hear... Continue →

26
Sep

1867 - Business and civic leader, Maggie L Walker was born

On this dated in 1867, Business and civic leader, Maggie L Walker was born.

27
Sep

1967 - Washington D.C.'s Anacostia Museum opens

On this date in 1967, Washington D.C.'s Anacostia Museum dedicated to informing the community of contributions by African Americans to U.S.... 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

1944 - Artist Stephanie Pogue born

ON this date in 1944, Artist Stephanie Pogue was born

27
Sep

1912 - The first blues song, WC Handy publishes Memphis Blues.

On this date in 1912, The first blues song, William Christopher Handy publishes Memphis Blues, 1912

27
Sep

1876 - Edward Mitchell Bannister wins a bronze medal

ON this date in 1876, Edward Mitchell Bannister wins a bronze medal for his painting Under the Oaks at the American Centennial Exposition, in... Continue →

28
Sep

1991 - Jazz Innovator Miles Davis dies

Jazz trumpeter and composer Miles Davis died in Santa Monica, California from complications following a stroke. He was 65.

28
Sep

1986 - The First Black Psychic!

On this date in 1986, Shirley Ajayi was the first African American given a part on a television show as a psychic! The show lasted for about one... Continue →

28
Sep

1961 - "Purlie Victorious" opens on Broadway

On this date in 1961, Purlie Victorious, a farce by playwright Ossie Davis, opened on Broadway. This stage play was written by and stars Ossie Davis... Continue →

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

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

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,... Continue →

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... Continue →

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

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... 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.

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... Continue →

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

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.

6
Oct

1871 - Fisk Jubilee Singers began first national tour

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

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

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.... 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.

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

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... Continue →

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

1978 - Congressman Ralph H. Metcalfe dies.

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

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

11
Oct

1991 - Redd Foxx dies on this date

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

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

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

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

13
Oct

1924 - Comedian Nipsey Russell born on this date.

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

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

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

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

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 →

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... Continue →

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... Continue →

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.

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

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

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... Continue →

17
Oct

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

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

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.... 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

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... Continue →

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... Continue →

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",... Continue →

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... Continue →

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

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... Continue →

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

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

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

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... Continue →

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... Continue →

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... Continue →

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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,... Continue →

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... Continue →

26
Oct

1921 - Solomon Porter Hood named minister to Liberia

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

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

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... Continue →

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

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 →

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.

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.

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... Continue →

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... Continue →

29
Oct

1945 - Actress Melba Moore born

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

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... Continue →

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... Continue →

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... Continue →

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.

1
Nov

1927 - Death of dancer and singer Florence Mills.

On this date in 1927, Dancer and singer Florence Mills (32) dies in New York City.

1
Nov

1910 - Activist, WEB Dubois, begins publication of the NAACP monthly magazine, Crisis.

ON this dated in 1910, Activist, WEB Dubois, begins publication of the NAACP monthly magazine, Crisis.

1
Nov

1898 - C.W. Allen patents table (self-leveling)

ON this date in 1898, C. W. Allen Self-leveling table. Patent No.613,436

1
Nov

1989 - Renowned attorney Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander dies.

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

2
Nov

1954 - Dr.Theodore K. Lawles awarded Spingarn Medal.

On this date in 1954, Spingarn Medal presented to Dr. Theodore K. Lawles for his research on skin-related diseases.

2
Nov

1893 - Daniel Alexander Payne dies.

On this date in 1893, Daniel A. Payne died. The sixth bishop of the American Methodist Episcopal Church, Payne was the first African American... 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

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

1949 - Boxer Larry Holmes born

On this date in 1949, boxer Larry Holmes who began his career around age 13 was born. He would win the heavyweight title in 1970 and defend it some... Continue →

3
Nov

1945 - Paul Robeson presented Spingarn Medal

On this date in 1945, Spingarn Medal presented to Paul Robeson "for his outstanding achievement in the theater, on the concert stage, and in the... Continue →

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

1920 - Emperor Jones opened at the Provincetown Theater

On this date in 1920, Emperor Jones opened at the Provincetown Theater with Charles Gilpin in the title role.

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

1969 - Sean "P.Diddy" Combs is born

Birthday of musician Sean "P. Diddy" Combs. Combs had early training working for record companies before setting off on his own with Bad Boy... 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

1981 - Zena Garrison becomes the 1st African American player to win the junior singles

On this date in 1981, Zena Garrison becomes the 1st African American player to win the junior singles tennis championship at Wimbledon, England

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

1958 - World renowned opera singer, Shirley Verrett, makes her debut in New York City

ON this date in 1958, World renowned opera singer, Shirley Verrett, makes her debut in New York City, 1958

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

1949 - Actress Berlinda Tolbert Born

On this date in 1949, Berlinda Tolbert played Jenny Willis, Lionel Jefferson's girlfriend, on the long running comedy "The Jefferson."

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

1879 - T Elkins puts patents on the refrigerating apparatus.

On this date in 1879, T. Elkins puts patents on the refrigerating apparatus. U.S. patent #221,222

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

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

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

1956 - Death of pianist Art Tatum

On this dated in 1956, pianist Art Tatum (46) dies in Los Angeles, California.

5
Nov

1935 - Courts order University to admit an African American

On this date in 1935, Maryland Court of Appeals ordered the University of Maryland to admit Donald Murray.

5
Nov

1912 - Woodrow Wilson elected president

On this date in 1912, Woodrow Wilson elected president.

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.

5
Nov

1836 - Theo Wright becomes the first Black person to get a Theology Degree.

On this date in 1836, Theo Wright becomes the first Black person to get a Theology Degree in the US.

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.

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

1973 - Superintendent of schools killed in ambush

ON this date in 1973, Marcus A. Foster, superintendent of schools in Oakland, Calif., killed in ambush after Board of Education meeting. Two members... 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 - Newspaper Founded

ON this date in 1928, the Atlanta Daily World founded by W.A. Scott Jr. The newspaper became a daily in 1933.

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 - 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

1901 - Juanita Hall, Singer, Actress is born

On this date in 1901, Juanita Long Hall was born in Keyport, New Jersey, and died February 29, 1968, in Bayshore, New York. This singer, actress, and... Continue →

6
Nov

1900 - Famous Song composed

On this date in 1900, James Weldon Johnson and J. Rosamond Johnson composed "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing."

6
Nov

1884 - Novelist and dramatist, William Wells Brown, dies.

On this date in 1884, Novelist and dramatist, William Wells Brown, dies.

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.

6
Nov

1858 - Samuel E. Cornish dies

On this date in 1858, Samuel E. Cornish died. Samuel Cornish was an American Presbyterian minister, abolitionist, publisher, and journalist. He was a... Continue →

6
Nov

1746 - Absalom Jones Born into Slavery

ON this date in 1746, Absalom Jones rose from slavery in Sussex, Delaware to become the first black Episcopal priest and principal founder of St.... Continue →

7
Nov

1876 - Edward Bannister Wins Prestigious Art Award ?

On November 7, 1876, Edward Mitchell Bannister became the first Black artist to receive wide critical acclaim when he was awarded a first-prize medal... Continue →

8
Nov

1933 - Actress Esther Rolle Was Born ?

On November 8, 1933, Esther Rolle was born in Pompano Beach, Florida. She became a pioneering actress, best known for her role as Florida Evans on... Continue →

8
Nov

1966 - Spingarn Medal: John H. Johnson

On November 8, 1966, John H. Johnson, the founder of Ebony and Jet magazines, was awarded the Spingarn Medal by the NAACP. The medal was given to him... Continue →

8
Nov

1953 - Birthday of Alfre Woodard ?

Award-winning actress Alfre Woodard was born on November 8, 1953, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. With a career spanning decades, she is known for her powerful... Continue →

8
Nov

1932 - Spingarn Medal: Robert R. Moton

On November 8, 1932, Robert Russa Moton, the second president of Tuskegee Institute, was awarded the Spingarn Medal by the NAACP. Who was... Continue →

8
Nov

1878 - The Birth of Major Taylor, Cycling Champion ?????

On November 8, 1878, Marshall Walter "Major" Taylor was born in Indianapolis, Indiana. He became the first African American world cycling... Continue →

9
Nov

1978 - Birth of R&B Star Sisqó

Mark Althavean Andrews, better known by his stage name Sisqó, was born on this day in Baltimore, Maryland. Sisqó is an American R&B singer,... Continue →

9
Nov

1731 - Benjamin Banneker, Pioneering African American Scientist and Almanac Author, Is Born

Benjamin Banneker was born on this day in Ellicott Mills, Maryland, to a free African American woman and a formerly enslaved father. Despite having... Continue →

9
Nov

1964 - Zoologist Roger Arliner Young Passed Away

Roger Arliner Young, a pioneering African American scientist, died on this day in 1964. She was the first African American woman to earn a Ph.D. in... Continue →

9
Nov

1956 - Mattiwilda Dobbs Makes History at the Metropolitan Opera

On this day, Mattiwilda Dobbs became the first African American to sing a romantic lead role at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. She starred... Continue →

9
Nov

1922 – Dorothy Dandridge Was Born

Dorothy Dandridge, groundbreaking actress, singer, and dancer, was born on this day in Cleveland, Ohio. She became the first African American woman... Continue →

10
Nov

1958 - Sam Cooke, Bobby Womack, and Lou Rawls Injured in Car Accident

While traveling near Marion, Arkansas, soul singer Sam Cooke, gospel great Lou Rawls, and a young Bobby Womack were involved in a serious automobile... Continue →

10
Nov

1831 - Nat Turner Gives Jailhouse Confession

After being captured for leading the Southampton, Virginia slave rebellion, Nat Turner was interviewed in jail by Thomas R. Gray, a Baltimore lawyer.... Continue →

10
Nov

1994 - Jazz Legend Carmen McRae Passes Away

Carmen McRae, a celebrated American jazz singer, pianist, and composer, died on November 10, 1994, at the age of 74. Known for her distinctive... Continue →

10
Nov

1995: Nigerian author and poet Ken Saro-Wiwa is executed.

Ken Saro-Wiwa, a Nigerian author, environmentalist, and human rights activist, was executed by the Nigerian military regime along with eight other... Continue →

11
Nov

1925 - Louis Armstrong Begins Recording the Hot Five Sessions

On this day, Louis Armstrong recorded the first of his legendary Hot Five and later Hot Seven recordings in Chicago. These sessions are widely... Continue →

11
Nov

1831 – Nat Turner Executed

Nat Turner, an enslaved preacher and leader of one of the most significant slave rebellions in American history, was executed by hanging in... Continue →

12
Nov

1977 – Alex Haley Receives the Spingarn Medal

Alexander P. Haley, acclaimed author of Roots: The Saga of an American Family, was awarded the Spingarn Medal by the NAACP for his unparalleled... Continue →

12
Nov

1941 - The National Negro Opera Company is Founded

Mary Cardwell Dawson, a trailblazing African American music educator and opera singer, founded the National Negro Opera Company (NNOC) in Pittsburgh,... Continue →

12
Nov

1900 - Henry Ossawa Tanner Honored at the Paris Exposition

On this day, the 1900 Paris Exposition (Exposition Universelle) officially closed. Among the 6,916 American exhibitors was Henry Ossawa Tanner, a... Continue →

12
Nov

1874 – Birth of William Edmondson, Pioneering African American Sculptor

On this date, William Edmondson was born in Nashville, Tennessee (not 1863, but 1874). He became the first African American artist to have a solo... Continue →

13
Nov

1955 - Whoopi Goldberg is Born

Caryn Elaine Johnson, later known as Whoopi Goldberg, was born in New York City on this day. She began performing at the age of eight with New... Continue →

13
Nov

1951 - Ballerina, Janet Collins, becomes the first Black dancer to appear with the Metropolitan Opera Company

On this day, Janet Collins made history by becoming the first African American prima ballerina to perform with the Metropolitan Opera Ballet in New... Continue →

14
Nov

1934 – William Levi Dawson’s “Negro Folk Symphony” Premieres

William Levi Dawson’s Symphony No. 1: Negro Folk Symphony premiered at Carnegie Hall on this date, performed by the Philadelphia Orchestra under... Continue →

14
Nov

1915 – Death of Booker T. Washington, Influential Educator and Leader

Booker T. Washington, one of the most prominent African American leaders of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, died at age 59 in Tuskegee,... Continue →

15
Nov

2001 – Henry Ossawa Tanner Posthumously Honored by the National Academy of Design

On this day, Henry Ossawa Tanner, renowned African American painter, was posthumously elected to full membership in the National Academy of... Continue →

15
Nov

1979 – Rosa L. Parks Awarded the Spingarn Medal

On this day, Rosa L. Parks received the Spingarn Medal, the NAACP’s highest honor, in recognition of her pivotal role in sparking the Montgomery... Continue →

15
Nov

1979 - Sir W. Arthur Lewis Awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics

Sir W. Arthur Lewis, a professor at Princeton University, was awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences, becoming the first Black person... Continue →

15
Nov

1928 – Roland Hayes Opens American Tour at Carnegie Hall

On this day, Roland Hayes, one of the first internationally acclaimed African American tenors, began his fifth American tour with a concert at New... Continue →

16
Nov

1967 - Actress Lisa Bonet is born

Lisa Bonet, an American actress, was born on November 16, 1967, in San Francisco, California, to a Jewish mother and a Black father. She rose to fame... Continue →

16
Nov

2001 – Agbani Darego Becomes First Black African Miss World

On this day, Agbani Darego of Nigeria was crowned Miss World 2001 in Sun City, South Africa. She made history as the first Black African woman to win... Continue →

16
Nov

1873 – W.C. Handy, Father of the Blues, Born in Florence, Alabama

William Christopher Handy, known as the Father of the Blues, was born on this day in Florence, Alabama. A classically trained musician and composer,... Continue →

18
Nov

1956 - Comedian Sinbad is born

David Adkins, known professionally as Sinbad, was born on this day in Benton Harbor, Michigan. A natural entertainer from a young age, Sinbad rose to... Continue →

18
Nov

1980 – Wally "Famous" Amos Donates Iconic Outfit to the Smithsonian

On this day, Wally "Famous" Amos, founder of Famous Amos Cookies, donated his signature Panama hat and embroidered shirt to the Smithsonian... Continue →

18
Nov

1978 – Andrew J. Young Receives the Spingarn Medal

Andrew J. Young, civil rights leader, diplomat, and politician, was awarded the Spingarn Medal by the NAACP in 1978. The Spingarn Medal is the... Continue →

18
Nov

1797 – Sojourner Truth Is Born

Sojourner Truth, born Isabella Baumfree in Swartekill, Ulster County, New York, was born into slavery but became one of America’s most powerful... Continue →

20
Nov

1922 – Mary B. Talbert Awarded the Spingarn Medal

Mary Burnett Talbert, a prominent educator, activist, and former president of the National Association of Colored Women (NACW), was awarded the... Continue →

20
Nov

1970 – Jennifer Hosten Becomes the First Black Miss World

Jennifer Josephine Hosten of Grenada made history by becoming the first Black woman and the first Caribbean woman to win the Miss World title. She... Continue →

23
Nov

1990 – The Piano Lesson by August Wilson Wins the Pulitzer Prize for Drama

August Wilson’s powerful play, The Piano Lesson, was awarded the 1990 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. The play, part of Wilson’s acclaimed Pittsburgh... Continue →

24
Nov

1868 – Scott Joplin, the “King of Ragtime,” is Born

Scott Joplin, a pioneering African American composer and pianist, was born in Texarkana, Texas. Widely known as the “King of Ragtime,” Joplin... Continue →

25
Nov

2001 – Pop Singer Melanie Thornton Dies in Plane Crash

Melanie Thornton, an American pop and Eurodance singer best known as the lead vocalist of the group La Bouche, tragically died in a plane crash on... Continue →

25
Nov

1949 – Ralph J. Bunche Awarded the Spingarn Medal

Ralph J. Bunche, diplomat and scholar, received the Spingarn Medal from the NAACP for his distinguished service as a United Nations mediator in the... Continue →

25
Nov

1949 – Tap Dance Legend Bill "Bojangles" Robinson Dies at 71

Luther "Bill" Robinson, famously known as Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, passed away at the age of 71. A pioneering African American tap dancer, Robinson... Continue →

26
Nov

1939 – Tina Turner Is Born

Tina Turner, born Anna Mae Bullock in Nutbush, Tennessee, was born on November 26, 1939 (not November 25, 1941). Known as the “Queen of Rock... Continue →

26
Nov

1970 – Death of Benjamin O. Davis Sr., First Black U.S. Army General

Benjamin O. Davis Sr., the first African American to achieve the rank of general in the U.S. Army, died at age 93 in Chicago. Commissioned as an... Continue →

26
Nov

1970 - Pulitzer Prize and Spingarn Medal awarded

Charles Gordone became the first African American to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for his play No Place to Be Somebody, a powerful work about... Continue →

26
Nov

1883 – Sojourner Truth Passes Away in Battle Creek, Michigan

Sojourner Truth, renowned abolitionist, women’s rights advocate, and powerful orator, died on this day in Battle Creek, Michigan, at approximately... Continue →

26
Nov

1872 – Black Leadership in South Carolina Government and Higher Education

On this day, the South Carolina General Assembly convened in Columbia and marked a major milestone during the Reconstruction era: Stephen A.... Continue →

26
Nov

1872 – Macon B. Allen Elected Judge in Charleston, South Carolina

On this day, Macon B. Allen was elected judge of the Inferior Court of Charleston, becoming the first African American to hold a major judicial... Continue →

27
Nov

1976 - Actor Jaleel White is born

Jaleel White, American actor and writer, was born in Culver City, California. He rose to fame portraying the beloved and iconic character Steve Urkel... Continue →

27
Nov

1964 – Robin Givens Was Born

Robin Givens, an American actress and model, was born on this day in New York City. She rose to fame in the late 1980s for her role as Darlene... Continue →

27
Nov

1957 - National Council of Negro Women

Dorothy Height was elected as the fourth national president of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) in November 1957.  She served in this role... Continue →

27
Nov

1944 – Congressman Mickey Leland Born in Lubbock, Texas

Mickey Leland, a Democratic Representative from Texas, was born on this day in Lubbock, Texas. A passionate advocate for the poor and... Continue →

27
Nov

1942 – Jimi Hendrix Is Born

Jimi Hendrix, one of the most influential and celebrated rock musicians of all time, was born in Seattle, Washington. Known for his groundbreaking... Continue →

27
Nov

1928 – Marjorie Joyner Patented the Permanent Wave Machine

Marjorie Joyner, an African American inventor and businesswoman, was granted U.S. Patent No. 1,693,515 for her invention of the permanent wave... Continue →

28
Nov

1997 – Death of Coleman A. Young, Detroit’s First Black Mayor

Coleman A. Young, the first African American mayor of Detroit, passed away on this day at age 79 due to respiratory failure caused by advanced... Continue →

28
Nov

1961 – Ernie Davis Becomes First African American to Win the Heisman Trophy

Ernie Davis, a standout running back from Syracuse University, made history by becoming the first African American to win the prestigious Heisman... Continue →

28
Nov

1960 – Death of Author Richard Wright

Richard Nathaniel Wright, acclaimed American author of Native Son and Black Boy, died in Paris, France, at the age of 52. Wright was a trailblazing... Continue →

28
Nov

1949 – Tap Legend Bill "Bojangles" Robinson Dies in New York City

Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, one of the most influential tap dancers in American history, passed away on this day in New York City at the age of 71.... Continue →

28
Nov

1929 – Berry Gordy Jr., Founder of Motown Records, Born

Berry Gordy Jr. was born in Detroit, Michigan on November 28, 1929. He would go on to found Motown Records in 1959, a groundbreaking Black-owned... Continue →

28
Nov

1753 – James Robinson, African American Revolutionary War Hero, Is Born

James Robinson, an enslaved African American who became a decorated soldier in the Revolutionary War, was born on this day in 1753. He fought... Continue →

29
Nov

1955 – Alice Childress Becomes the First African American Woman to Receive an Obie Award

Alice Childress, a pioneering playwright, actress, and novelist, became the first African American woman to win an Obie Award for Off-Broadway... Continue →

29
Nov

1919 - Pearl Primus is born

Pearl Primus, born in Trinidad and raised in New York City, was a groundbreaking dancer, choreographer, and anthropologist. She is celebrated for... Continue →

30
Nov

1981 – Coleman A. Young Receives the Spingarn Medal

Coleman A. Young, the first African American mayor of Detroit, was awarded the Spingarn Medal by the NAACP “in recognition of his singular... Continue →

30
Nov

1965 – Judith Jamison Makes Her Debut with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

On this day, Judith Jamison made her debut with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, marking the beginning of a legendary career in modern dance.... Continue →

30
Nov

1924 - Congresswoman, Shirley Chisholm was born.

Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman elected to the U.S. Congress, was born in Brooklyn, New York, to immigrant parents from Barbados... Continue →

30
Nov

1912 - Gordon Parks, filmmaker & photographer, was born

Gordon Parks, born on this day in Fort Scott, Kansas, became a groundbreaking photographer, filmmaker, writer, and humanitarian. He was the first... Continue →

30
Nov

1889 – S.R. Scottron Patents Curtain Rod

Samuel Raymond Scottron, an African American inventor and businessman, received a U.S. patent for a curtain rod (Patent No. 481,720). Scottron held... Continue →

30
Nov

1875 – A.P. Ashbourne Patents the Biscuit Cutter

Alexander P. Ashbourne, an African American inventor, was granted U.S. Patent No. 170,460 for a biscuit cutter. His invention automated the process... Continue →

1
Dec

1987 - James (Arthur) Baldwin dies

James Baldwin, born August 2, 1924, in Harlem, New York, passed away on this day in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, France. A brilliant novelist, essayist, and... Continue →

1
Dec

1940 – Richard Pryor Born in Peoria, Illinois

Richard Franklin Lennox Thomas Pryor III, one of the most influential comedians of all time, was born in Peoria, Illinois. Raised primarily by his... Continue →

1
Dec

1933 – Lou Rawls Born in Chicago, Illinois

Louis Allen Rawls, known as Lou Rawls, was born in Chicago on this day. A three-time Grammy Award-winning singer, Rawls rose to fame in the 1950s and... Continue →

1
Dec

1892 – Birth of Visionary Artist Minnie Evans

Minnie Evans, a self-taught African American folk artist, was born on December 1, 1892, in Long Creek, North Carolina. Known for her vivid, dreamlike... Continue →

1
Dec

1877 – Jonathan Jasper Wright Resigns from South Carolina Supreme Court

Jonathan Jasper Wright, the first African American to serve on a state supreme court in the United States, resigned from the South Carolina Supreme... Continue →

1
Dec

1873 – Mifflin Wistar Gibbs Elected City Judge in Little Rock

Mifflin Wistar Gibbs, an accomplished lawyer, publisher, and civil rights advocate, was elected city judge in Little Rock, Arkansas, becoming the... Continue →

1
Dec

1989 – Alvin Ailey, Legendary Dancer and Choreographer, Dies

Alvin Ailey, the visionary African American dancer and choreographer who founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1958, died at age 58. For... Continue →

2
Dec

1992 - Maya Angelou is asked to compose a poem for the inauguration of President Bill

While the exact date when Maya Angelou was invited to compose a poem for President Bill Clinton's inauguration isn't publicly documented, she... Continue →

2
Dec

1989 – Andre Ware Becomes First African American Quarterback to Win the Heisman Trophy

Andre Ware, quarterback for the University of Houston, made history by becoming the first African American quarterback to win the prestigious Heisman... Continue →

2
Dec

1969 – Marie Van Brittan Brown Awarded Patent for First Home Security System

Marie Van Brittan Brown, a Black American inventor, was granted U.S. Patent No. 3,482,037 for her invention of the first home security system.... Continue →

2
Dec

1968 – "Judas, My Brother" by Frank Yerby Published

On this day, Dial Press published Judas, My Brother, a novel by Frank Yerby, one of the first Black American authors to gain international acclaim... Continue →

2
Dec

1923 – Roland Hayes Becomes First Black Artist to Perform at Boston Symphony Hall

On this day, Roland Hayes, a groundbreaking African American tenor, became the first Black soloist to perform at Boston's Symphony Hall to widespread... Continue →

2
Dec

1922 – Birth of Congressman Charles C. Diggs Jr.

Charles C. Diggs Jr. was born on December 2, 1922, in Detroit, Michigan. He became the first African American elected to Congress from Michigan,... Continue →

2
Dec

1912 – Henry Armstrong, Legendary Boxer, Is Born in Columbus, Mississippi

Henry Armstrong, born Henry Jackson Jr., would go on to become the only boxer in history to simultaneously hold world titles in three weight... Continue →

2
Dec

1891 - Historian, Charles Harris Wesley was born

On December 2, 1891, Charles Harris Wesley was born in Louisville, Kentucky. He became a distinguished historian, educator, minister, and author,... Continue →

2
Dec

1884 – Granville T. Woods Patents His First Electrical Invention

On this day, Granville T. Woods, often called the “Black Edison,” was granted a patent for his improved telephone transmitter. This device... Continue →

2
Dec

1859 – Abolitionist John Brown Is Hanged in Charles Town, Virginia

Radical white abolitionist John Brown was executed by hanging after his failed raid on the federal arsenal at Harpers Ferry in October 1859. His goal... Continue →

3
Dec

1982 – Thomas "Hitman" Hearns Wins 5th Boxing Title in Different Weight Class

On this day, Thomas "Hitman" Hearns defeated Wilfred Benítez to win the WBC Junior Middleweight (Super Welterweight) title. With this victory,... Continue →

3
Dec

1964 - J.Raymond Jones elected leader of New York Democratic organization.

On December 3, 1964, J. Raymond Jones was elected leader of New York City's Democratic organization, Tammany Hall, becoming the first African... Continue →

3
Dec

1964 – Roy Wilkins Awarded the Spingarn Medal

Roy Wilkins, executive secretary of the NAACP, was awarded the prestigious Spingarn Medal for his lifelong dedication to civil rights and his... Continue →

3
Dec

1922 – Ralph Gardner-Chavis Born

Ralph Gardner-Chavis, born in Cleveland, Ohio, was a pioneering African American chemist whose research played a crucial role in the development of... Continue →

3
Dec

1911 – Helen Gray Edmonds, Educator and Historian, is Born

Helen Gray Edmonds was born in Lawrenceville, Virginia. She went on to become a distinguished educator, historian, and civic leader. Edmonds was the... Continue →

3
Dec

1866 – Death of John S. Rock, Pioneering Lawyer and Activist

On this day, John S. Rock—a lawyer, physician, and abolitionist—passed away. In 1865, he made history as the first African American admitted to... Continue →

4
Dec

1969 – Moneta Sleet Jr. Wins Pulitzer Prize

Moneta Sleet Jr., a photographer for Ebony magazine, became the first African American man and the first African American photographer to win a... Continue →

4
Dec

1969 – Clarence M. Mitchell Jr. Awarded the Spingarn Medal

Clarence M. Mitchell Jr., director of the NAACP Washington Bureau, received the Spingarn Medal for the pivotal role he played in the enactment of... Continue →

4
Dec

1927 – Anthony Overton Awarded the Spingarn Medal

Anthony Overton, a pioneering African American businessman, was awarded the Spingarn Medal by the NAACP for his outstanding achievements in business.... Continue →

4
Dec

1927 – Duke Ellington Opens at the Cotton Club in Harlem

On this day, Duke Ellington and his band began their legendary residency at the Cotton Club in Harlem, New York. This engagement catapulted Ellington... Continue →

4
Dec

1915 – NAACP Leads Protests Against The Birth of a Nation

On this day, the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) organized nationwide protests against the film The Birth of a... Continue →

4
Dec

1909 – The Amsterdam News Founded in New York City

Founded in Harlem, The Amsterdam News became one of the most influential African American newspapers in the United States. It served as a critical... Continue →

4
Dec

1807 – Death of Prince Hall, Activist and Masonic Leader

Prince Hall, a pioneering African American abolitionist and founder of Prince Hall Freemasonry, died in Boston on this day in 1807. Born in the... Continue →

4
Dec

1783 – George Washington Delivers Farewell Address at Fraunces Tavern

On this day, General George Washington delivered his emotional farewell address to his officers of the Continental Army at Fraunces Tavern in New... Continue →

5
Dec

1870 – Death of Alexandre Dumas, Celebrated French Novelist and Playwright

On this day, Alexandre Dumas, the renowned French author of African descent, passed away at the age of 68. Dumas is best known for his literary... Continue →

5
Dec

1957 – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Awarded the Spingarn Medal

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. received the Spingarn Medal, the highest honor awarded by the NAACP, for his outstanding leadership during the Montgomery... Continue →

5
Dec

1955 – Carl Murphy Awarded the Spingarn Medal

Carl Murphy, publisher of the Baltimore Afro-American newspaper, was awarded the Spingarn Medal by the NAACP for his outstanding contributions as a... 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

1935 – Langston Hughes's Play "Mulatto" Opens on Broadway

On this day, renowned Harlem Renaissance poet and playwright Langston Hughes saw his play Mulatto open at the Vanderbilt Theatre on Broadway. The... Continue →

5
Dec

1935 – The Swing Era Takes Off with the Rise of Big Bands

The Swing Era officially took off around this time, with the commercial success of big bands transforming the American music scene. The mid-1930s... Continue →

5
Dec

1935 – Mary McLeod Bethune Awarded the Spingarn Medal

Mary McLeod Bethune, renowned educator and civil rights leader, was awarded the Spingarn Medal by the NAACP for her outstanding achievements in... Continue →

5
Dec

1932 – Reverend James Cleveland, the "King of Gospel," is Born

Reverend James Cleveland was born in Chicago, Illinois, on December 5, 1932. Known as the "King of Gospel Music," he first sang gospel under the... Continue →

5
Dec

1932 – Birth of Little Richard

Richard Wayne Penniman, known to the world as Little Richard, was born on December 5, 1932, in Macon, Georgia. A pioneer of rock and roll, Little... Continue →

5
Dec

1918 – Charity Adams Earley Born

Charity Adams Earley was born in Kittrell, North Carolina. In 1942, she became the first African American woman to be commissioned as an officer in... Continue →

5
Dec

1895 – Elbert Frank Cox, First African American to Earn a Ph.D. in Mathematics, Born

Elbert Frank Cox was born in Evansville, Indiana on this day. In 1925, he made history by becoming the first African American in the world to receive... Continue →

5
Dec

1881 – Two Black Congressmen Serve in the 47th U.S. Congress

The 47th Congress (1881–1883) convened with two African American Representatives: Robert Smalls of South Carolina, a formerly enslaved man... Continue →

5
Dec

1870 – Alexandre Dumas (Père) Passes Away

Alexandre Dumas, the renowned French novelist and playwright, died on this day in 1870. Born in 1802, Dumas was of Afro-Caribbean descent—his... Continue →

5
Dec

1870 – Birth of Cowboy and Rodeo Legend Bill Pickett

Bill Pickett was born in Travis County, Texas, on this day. Though only 5'7" and 145 pounds, he became one of the most legendary figures of the... Continue →

5
Dec

1832 – Birth of Sarah Allen Gorham, Pioneer Missionary

Sarah Gorham, born on December 5, 1832, became the first woman appointed by the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church as a missionary to a foreign... Continue →

5
Dec

1784 – Phillis Wheatley Passes Away in Poverty

Phillis Wheatley, the first African American to publish a book of poetry, died in poverty at the age of 31 in Boston. Enslaved as a child and brought... Continue →

5
Dec

1775 – Salem Poor Honored for Heroism in the Revolutionary War

Salem Poor, a formerly enslaved Black man and soldier in the American Revolutionary War, was recognized by 14 officers for his extraordinary bravery... Continue →

6
Dec

1878 – Birth of William Stanley Braithwaite, Influential Literary Figure

William Stanley Braithwaite was born in Boston, Massachusetts. A poet, literary critic, and editor, Braithwaite played a pivotal role in shaping... Continue →

6
Dec

1997 – Lee P. Brown Elected as Houston’s First Black Mayor

On this day, Lee P. Brown made history by being elected the first African American mayor of Houston, Texas. A former police chief and federal "drug... Continue →

6
Dec

1997 – Eddie Robinson Coaches Final Game

Eddie Robinson, legendary head coach of Grambling State University, coached his final football game on this day. Over a remarkable 57-year career... Continue →

6
Dec

1981 - Grace Ann Bumbry

Grace Bumbry, a renowned American opera singer, was celebrated for her exceptional talent and significant contributions to the world of classical... Continue →

6
Dec

1971 – Lewis F. Powell Confirmed to U.S. Supreme Court Despite Civil Rights Opposition

On this day, Lewis Franklin Powell Jr. was confirmed as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. His nomination faced opposition from civil... Continue →

6
Dec

1961 – Dr. Frantz Fanon Dies in Washington, D.C.

Frantz Fanon, the Martinican-born psychiatrist, philosopher, revolutionary, and author, passed away from leukemia at age 36. He is best known for his... Continue →

6
Dec

1949 – Blues Legend Huddie "Lead Belly" Ledbetter Dies

Huddie William Ledbetter, famously known as Lead Belly, passed away on this day in 1949 at the age of 61. A master of the 12-string guitar, Lead... Continue →

6
Dec

1892 – Birth of Dr. Theodore K. Lawless, Medical Pioneer

Dr. Theodore K. Lawless was born on December 6, 1892, in Thibodaux, Louisiana. He became a renowned dermatologist, medical researcher, and... Continue →

6
Dec

1890 – Sgt. Thomas Shaw Awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor

Sergeant Thomas Shaw, a member of the 9th Cavalry Regiment—one of the original Buffalo Soldier units—was awarded the Medal of Honor for his... Continue →

6
Dec

1875 – Record Number of Black Legislators Join the 44th U.S. Congress

The 44th Congress of the United States (1875–1877) convened with a historic high of eight African American members, the largest number during the... Continue →

6
Dec

1871 – P.B.S. Pinchback Becomes First African American President Pro Tempore of the Louisiana Senate and Acting Lieutenant Governor

Pinckney Benton Stewart (P.B.S.) Pinchback was elected president pro tempore of the Louisiana State Senate on this day in 1871, and shortly after... Continue →

6
Dec

1869 - James H. Harris Elected President

On December 6, 1869, James H. Harris of North Carolina was elected President of the National Convention of Colored Men, a significant assembly... Continue →

7
Dec

1982 – John E. Jacob Becomes President of the National Urban League

In 1982, John E. Jacob succeeded Vernon E. Jordan Jr. as president of the National Urban League, a historic civil rights organization focused on... Continue →

7
Dec

1972 - W.Sterling Cary elected president of the Nation Council of Churches.

On December 7, 1972, the Rev. W. Sterling Cary was unanimously elected as the first Black president of the National Council of Churches (NCC), the... Continue →

7
Dec

1942 – Reginald F. Lewis, Pioneering Businessman and Attorney, Born in Baltimore, Maryland

Reginald F. Lewis, a trailblazer in law and business, was born on this day in Baltimore, Maryland. He earned his law degree from Harvard Law School... Continue →

7
Dec

1941 – Lester Granger Becomes Executive Director of the National Urban League

On the same day as the Pearl Harbor attack, Lester B. Granger was named executive director of the National Urban League, becoming a leading figure in... Continue →

7
Dec

1941 – Richard Wright Awarded the Spingarn Medal

The NAACP presented the prestigious Spingarn Medal to novelist Richard Wright for his groundbreaking contributions to American literature. He was... Continue →

7
Dec

1941 – Dorie Miller's Heroism at Pearl Harbor

Doris “Dorie” Miller, a mess attendant from Waco, Texas, displayed extraordinary bravery during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor while serving... Continue →

7
Dec

1931 – Comer Cottrell, Entrepreneur and Trailblazer, Is Born

Comer Cottrell, born on this day in Mobile, Alabama, would go on to become a pioneering entrepreneur and influential figure in American business. In... Continue →

7
Dec

1895 – Birth of Sir Milton Margai, First Prime Minister of Sierra Leone

Sir Milton Margai was born on this day in Gbangbatoke, Sierra Leone. A trained medical doctor and respected statesman, Margai became the first Prime... Continue →

7
Dec

1885 – 49th U.S. Congress Convenes with Two Black Congressmen

The 49th Congress (1885–1887) convened on December 7, 1885, with two African American representatives serving: James E. O’Hara of North... Continue →

8
Dec

1987 – Kurt Schmoke Becomes First African American Mayor of Baltimore, Maryland

On this day, Kurt L. Schmoke was inaugurated as the first African American mayor of Baltimore, Maryland. A Rhodes Scholar and Yale Law graduate,... Continue →

8
Dec

1972 – Tragic Loss of Rep. George W. Collins and Historic Appointment of Jewel Lafontant

U.S. Representative George W. Collins of Illinois died in a plane crash near Chicago Midway Airport at age 47. Collins had served in Congress since... Continue →

8
Dec

1936 – Michigan Chronicle Founded by Louis E. Martin

On this day, journalist and publisher Louis E. Martin founded the Michigan Chronicle, an African American newspaper based in Detroit. The paper... Continue →

8
Dec

1936 – John Hope Awarded Spingarn Medal Posthumously

On this day, John Hope was posthumously awarded the Spingarn Medal, the NAACP’s highest honor, recognizing outstanding achievement by an African... Continue →

8
Dec

1933 – Birth of Flip Wilson, Groundbreaking Comedian and TV Star

Clerow “Flip” Wilson was born on this day in Jersey City, New Jersey. He was the tenth of 24 children, with 18 siblings surviving into adulthood.... Continue →

8
Dec

1925 – Sammy Davis Jr. Is Born

Sammy Davis Jr., legendary African American singer, dancer, actor, and comedian, was born in Harlem, New York. A child prodigy who began performing... Continue →

8
Dec

1868 – Birth of Henry Hugh Proctor, Minister, Educator, and Writer

Henry Hugh Proctor was born in Fayette County, Tennessee. He became a prominent African American minister, educator, and writer, known for his work... Continue →

8
Dec

1850 – Lucy Ann Stanton Becomes the First African American Woman to Graduate from College

On this day, Lucy Ann Stanton made history by becoming the first African American woman to complete a college-level course of study. She graduated... Continue →

9
Dec

1971 – Bill Pickett Inducted into the National Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame

Bill Pickett, a legendary African American cowboy, was posthumously inducted into the National Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame on December 9, 1971. Born in... Continue →

9
Dec

1938 – First Public Service Radio Program by a Black Broadcaster

On this day, Jack L. Cooper, the first African American radio broadcaster, launched "Search for Missing Persons," a public service program aimed at... Continue →

9
Dec

1922 – Birth of Redd Foxx

Redd Foxx, born John Elroy Sanford in St. Louis, Missouri, was an iconic comedian and actor known for his quick wit, edgy stand-up routines, and... Continue →

9
Dec

1919 – Roy DeCarava is Born

Roy DeCarava, pioneering African American photographer, was born in New York City. He became the first African American photographer to receive a... Continue →

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 →

10
Dec

1967 – Otis Redding Dies in Plane Crash

Soul singer Otis Redding, known for hits like “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay”, tragically died at age 26 when his plane crashed into Lake... Continue →

10
Dec

1964 – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Receives the Nobel Peace Prize

On this day, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo, Norway, for his nonviolent struggle against racial segregation and... Continue →

11
Dec

1964 – Soul Legend Sam Cooke Dies Under Controversial Circumstances

On this day, iconic soul singer Sam Cooke died at age 33 in Los Angeles, California. According to reports, he was shot and killed by Bertha Franklin,... Continue →

11
Dec

1961 – Black Nativity Premieres in New York City

Langston Hughes’ gospel musical Black Nativity premiered Off-Broadway at the 89th Street Theatre in New York City. One of the first plays written... Continue →

11
Dec

1926 – Willie Mae “Big Mama” Thornton Born

Blues singer Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton was born in Ariton, Alabama. A powerhouse vocalist and songwriter, she is best known for her 1952 hit... Continue →

11
Dec

1917 – Jazz Migration Begins: Joe "King" Oliver Leaves New Orleans for Chicago

On this day, Joe "King" Oliver, a pioneering jazz cornetist and bandleader, left New Orleans and moved to Chicago, marking a key moment in the Great... Continue →

11
Dec

1917 – Harry T. Burleigh Receives the Spingarn Medal

Harry T. Burleigh, a pioneering African American composer, arranger, and baritone soloist, was awarded the Spingarn Medal by the NAACP. Burleigh is... Continue →

12
Dec

1941 - Dionne Warwick, born

Dionne Warwick, one of the most-charted female vocalists of all time, was born in East Orange, New Jersey. Known for her smooth vocals and... Continue →

12
Dec

1929 - Vincent Smith, artist, born

Vincent Smith, an acclaimed African American painter and printmaker, was born in Brooklyn, New York. His work is celebrated for its vivid... Continue →

12
Dec

1918 – Jazz Singer Joe Williams Born

Joe Williams, acclaimed American jazz vocalist, was born in Cordele, Georgia. Renowned for his smooth baritone voice, Williams rose to fame in the... Continue →

13
Dec

1981 - Comedian Dewey

Dewey "Pigmeat" Markham, born on April 18, 1904, in Durham, North Carolina, was a multifaceted African American entertainer renowned for his work as... Continue →

14
Dec

1968 – Sammy Davis Jr. Awarded the Spingarn Medal

Entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. received the prestigious Spingarn Medal from the NAACP for his “superb and many-faceted talent” and his significant... Continue →

14
Dec

1963 - Singer Dinah Washington dies in Detroit.

On December 14, 1963, the music world mourned the loss of Dinah Washington, a versatile and influential American singer renowned for her... Continue →

14
Dec

1945 - Stanley Crouch , born

Stanley Crouch, born on December 14, 1945, in Los Angeles, California, was an influential American writer, jazz critic, and cultural commentator.... Continue →

14
Dec

1920 – Clark Terry, legendary jazz trumpeter and flugelhornist, was born in St. Louis, Missouri.

Clark Terry was a trailblazing musician, best known for his work with Duke Ellington and Count Basie, and later as a member of the Tonight Show Band,... Continue →

15
Dec

2001 - Singer Rufus Thomas dies

On December 15, 2001, Rufus Thomas, the legendary R&B, soul, and funk singer renowned for hits like "Do the Funky Chicken" and "Walking the Dog,"... Continue →

15
Dec

1943 – Death of Thomas "Fats" Waller

Renowned jazz pianist, organist, composer, and entertainer Thomas W. “Fats” Waller died at age 39 in Kansas City, Missouri. A towering figure in... Continue →

17
Dec

1975 – Noble Sissle Passed Away in Tampa, Florida

Noble Sissle, renowned jazz lyricist, bandleader, and playwright, died on this day in Tampa, Florida. He was best known for his groundbreaking... Continue →

17
Dec

1961 – Sculptor Marion Perkins Passed Away

Marion Perkins, a self-taught African American sculptor from Chicago, died on this day in 1961. Born in 1908, Perkins worked as a newspaper vendor on... Continue →

17
Dec

1939 – Eddie Kendricks is born in Union Springs, Alabama

Eddie Kendricks, future co-founder and falsetto lead singer of the legendary Motown group The Temptations, is born in Union Springs, Alabama. As part... Continue →

17
Dec

1937 – Birth of Art Neville, Music Legend

Art Neville was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. He would go on to become a pioneering figure in funk and R&B music as a founding member of the... Continue →

18
Dec

1989 - Ernest Dickerson wins the New York Film Critics Circle Award.

On December 18, 1989, the New York Film Critics Circle announced their annual awards, honoring Ernest R. Dickerson with the Best Cinematography award... Continue →

18
Dec

1917 - Ossie Davis was born on this day.

On December 18, 1917, Ossie Davis was born in Cogdell, Georgia. He emerged as a distinguished actor, director, writer, and civil rights activist,... Continue →

18
Dec

1912 – General Benjamin O. Davis Sr. Born in Washington, D.C.

Benjamin O. Davis Sr., the first African American to become a General in the U.S. Army, was born in Washington, D.C. on this day. His military career... Continue →

19
Dec

1875 – Carter G. Woodson, “Father of Black History,” Is Born

Carter Godwin Woodson was born in New Canton, Virginia. A pioneering African American historian, author, and educator, he is best known as the... Continue →

19
Dec

1933 - Actress Cicely Tyson is born in New York, New York.

Cicely Tyson, the acclaimed American actress, was born on December 19, 1924, in Harlem, New York City.  Raised by her parents, who were immigrants... Continue →

20
Dec

1988 - Max Robinson passes away.

On December 20, 1988, Max Robinson, the first African American man to anchor a nightly network newscast, passed away at the age of 49 due to... Continue →

20
Dec

1981 - Broadway Musical Premiere

On December 20, 1981, the musical Dreamgirls premiered at Broadway's Imperial Theatre. The production ran for over three years, totaling 1,521... Continue →

20
Dec

1893 – Paul Laurence Dunbar Publishes Oak and Ivy

On this day, Paul Laurence Dunbar, one of the first influential Black poets in American literature, published his debut poetry collection, Oak and... Continue →

21
Dec

1872 - Robert Duncanson passes away.

Robert S. Duncanson, a pioneering African American landscape painter of the 19th century, faced significant health challenges in his later years. In... Continue →

21
Dec

1959 - Spingarn Medal : Duke Ellington

The Spingarn Medal was awarded to Edward Kennedy ("Duke") Ellington, renowned composer, pianist, and jazz pioneer, in recognition of his outstanding... Continue →

21
Dec

1941 - Samuel L. Jackson born

Actor Samuel L. Jackson was born in Washington, D.C. Jackson began his acting career while attending Morehouse College and went on to star in over... Continue →

21
Dec

1921 - The Negro Renaissance

The Negro Renaissance, later known as the Harlem Renaissance, marked a period of extraordinary creativity among Black artists and writers, coupled... Continue →

21
Dec

Charles S. Gilpin Awarded Spingarn Medal

Actor Charles S. Gilpin received the NAACP's Spingarn Medal for his groundbreaking performance in the title role of The Emperor Jones by Eugene... Continue →

22
Dec

1905 - Birth of James Amos Porter

James Amos Porter, a pioneering African American art historian and artist, was born on this date in Baltimore, Maryland. Porter was instrumental in... Continue →

22
Dec

1943 - W.E.B. Du Bois became the first Black person elected to the National Institute of Arts and Letters.

W.E.B. Du Bois, a pioneering sociologist, historian, and civil rights activist, was elected to the prestigious National Institute of Arts and... Continue →

22
Dec

1898 - Birth of Dr. Chancellor Williams

Dr. Chancellor Williams, renowned historian and author of The Destruction of Black Civilization, was born. His influential work challenged mainstream... Continue →

22
Dec

1883 - Arthur Wergs Mitchell born

Arthur Wergs Mitchell, born on December 22, 1883, near Lafayette, Alabama, was the first African American elected to the U.S. Congress as a Democrat.... Continue →

22
Dec

1873 - Death of Abolitionist Charles Lenox Remond

Charles Lenox Remond, a pioneering abolitionist and orator, died on this day in 1873. He was the first Black lecturer employed by the Massachusetts... Continue →

23
Dec

1867 - Birth of Madame C.J. Walker

Madame C.J. Walker, born Sarah Breedlove in Delta, Louisiana, was born on this day. She would go on to found a successful Black hair-care business in... Continue →

23
Dec

1815 - Birth of Henry Highland Garnet

Henry Highland Garnet, a minister, abolitionist, and diplomat, was born into slavery in Kent County, Maryland. He became a prominent figure in the... Continue →

24
Dec

1853 - Birth of Octavia V. Rogers Albert

Octavia V. Rogers Albert, an African American author and former enslaved woman, was born. She is best known for her influential book The House of... Continue →

25
Dec

1907 - Cab Calloway is born in Rochester, New York.

Bandleader and pioneering jazz singer, Cab Calloway became the first jazz vocalist to sell a million records, leaving a lasting impact on American... Continue →

25
Dec

1837 - Mirror of Liberty Published

The Mirror of Liberty, the first African American magazine, was published in New York City by abolitionist David Ruggles. It served as a powerful... Continue →

25
Dec

1760 - Jupiter Hammon, a New York slave and devout Christian, published An Evening Thought: Salvation by Christ, with Penitential Cries.

Considered the first published African American poet, Jupiter Hammon's work marked a significant moment in Black literary history. His deeply... Continue →

26
Dec

1931 - Lonnie Elder born.

Lonne Elder III was an influential American actor, playwright, and screenwriter, renowned for his contributions to African-American theater and film.... Continue →

26
Dec

1924 - First Black to Perform on the Grand Ole Opry

DeFord Bailey, an influential African American harmonica player, was among the Grand Ole Opry's earliest and most celebrated performers. His first... Continue →

26
Dec

1908 - Jack Johnson becomes the first Black heavyweight boxing champion

In Sydney, Australia, Jack Johnson defeated Tommy Burns to win the world heavyweight championship, becoming the first Black man to hold the title.... Continue →

26
Dec

1894 - Birth of Jean Toomer

Jean Toomer, a pioneering African-American writer and the grandson of P.B.S. Pinchback—the first African-American governor of a U.S. state—was... Continue →

27
Dec

1956 - Jackie Robinson Awarded Spingarn Medal

On this day, Jack Roosevelt "Jackie" Robinson was awarded the Spingarn Medal by the NAACP for his outstanding conduct both on and off the baseball... Continue →

27
Dec

1939 - John Amos born.

John Amos was born in Newark, New Jersey. He gained prominence in the 1970s for his role in Good Times, where he portrayed a strong Black father... Continue →

27
Dec

1904 - Monroe Nathan Work marries Florence Evelyn Hendrickson.

With the support of his wife, Work went on to publish The Negro Year Book, an annual encyclopedia of African American achievement. In 1928, he... Continue →

27
Dec

1873 - Birth of William A. Harper

William A. Harper, one of the most gifted African American artists of the early 20th century, was born in Ontario, Canada. A student of renowned... Continue →

28
Dec

1954 - Actor Denzel Washington Born on this date

Actor Denzel Washington was born on this day in Mount Vernon, NY. Washington will star in such films as "Malcolm X", "Glory", "Much Ado about... Continue →

28
Dec

1977 - Karen Farmer becomes first African American member of the Daughters of the American Revolution

On this day, Karen Farmer broke racial barriers by becoming the first African American admitted to the Daughters of the American Revolution. She... Continue →

28
Dec

1918 - George H. White dies

George H. White was the final Black member of Congress during the post-Reconstruction period, serving North Carolina’s 2nd congressional district... Continue →

28
Dec

1918 - William Stanley Braithwaite awarded Spingarn Medal

William Stanley Braithwaite, renowned poet, literary critic, and editor, received the Spingarn Medal from the NAACP for distinguished achievement in... Continue →

28
Dec

1905 - Earl "Fatha" Hines, the famed jazz musician and pioneer of modern jazz piano, was born.

Hines revolutionized jazz piano with his innovative "trumpet-style" approach, influencing countless musicians and shaping the future of jazz. His... Continue →

28
Dec

1829 - Death of Elizabeth "Mumbet" Freeman

Elizabeth Freeman, known as "Mumbet," dies. Born into slavery, she escaped after mistreatment and successfully sued for her freedom in Massachusetts.... Continue →

29
Dec

1917 - Thomas Bradley was born

Thomas J. "Tom" Bradley was born on December 29, 1917, in Calvert, Texas. He moved with his family to Los Angeles around 1924, where he later... Continue →

30
Dec

1960 - Langston Hughes Presented the Spingarn Medal

On this day in 1960, renowned poet and writer Langston Hughes was presented with the NAACP Spingarn Medal, honoring his outstanding achievements in... Continue →

30
Dec

1928 - Birth of Bo Diddley

On this day in 1928, Bo Diddley was born Ellas Bates on a small farm near McComb, Mississippi, in rural Pike County near the Louisiana border. Raised... Continue →

30
Dec

1892 - First Black Medical Journal Published

Dr. Miles V. Lynk, a pioneering African American physician, published The Medical and Surgical Observer, the first Black medical journal in the... Continue →

30
Dec

1842 - Birth of Josiah T. Walls

Josiah T. Walls, the first Black man elected to the U.S. Congress from Florida, was born on this day in 1842. Born into slavery in Virginia, Walls... Continue →

31
Dec

1948 - Birth of Donna Summer

Donna Summer, the iconic "Queen of Disco," is born in Boston, Massachusetts. Rising to fame in the 1970s, she became a defining voice of the disco... Continue →

31
Dec

1953 - Hulan Jack sworn in a Manhattan Borough president.

On this day in 1953, Hulan Jack was sworn in as the Borough President of Manhattan, becoming one of the first African Americans to hold such a... Continue →

31
Dec

1953 - Springarn Medal awarded to Paul R. Williams

On December 31, 1953, the NAACP awarded the Spingarn Medal to Paul R. Williams for his outstanding achievements in architecture. Williams broke... Continue →

31
Dec

1935 - Marian Anderson's Town Hall Debut

On this day, Marian Anderson made her debut at Town Hall in New York City. Her performance was widely praised, with New York Times critic Howard... Continue →

31
Dec

1930 - Odetta Felious Gordon born

Odetta Felious Gordon, known simply as Odetta, is born in Birmingham, Alabama. A powerful folk singer, guitarist, and civil rights activist, Odetta... Continue →

31
Dec

1900 - Selma Burke was born

Sculptor and educator Selma Burke was born on this day in Mooresville, North Carolina. She gained national recognition after being commissioned to... Continue →

31
Dec

1871 - Birth of Annie Wealthy Holland

Annie Wealthy Holland, an influential African American educator, was born on this day. She is best known for founding the Parent Teacher Association... Continue →