On July 16, 1862, prolific writer and civil rights crusader, Ida B. Wells was born into slavery in Holly Springs, Mississippi. Ida’s mother, Elizabeth, was famous for her cooking. Ida’s father was a carpenter. His name was James. The nation’s slaves were freed by the Emancipation Proclamation six months after her birth. Both parents were […]
Carl Stokes – June 21st in African American History
On June 21, 1927, Carl Stokes was born. One reason we celebrate his birthday is the fact he was the first major American city mayor to be black. Being the first black mayor of a major city in the U.S. is not the only accomplishment that deserves recognition. He was a US Ambassador, an Ohio […]
Tiger Woods – April 13th in African American History
On April 13, 1997, 21-year old Tiger Woods won the prestigious Masters Golf Tournament. This victory brought Woods increased notoriety in a sport known for its exclusiveness. This date is notable because he made history as both the first African American and the youngest Masters champion. Most golfers can only dream of winning the Masters; […]
Spelman College – April 11th in African American History
On April 11, 1881, the first classes of what was to become Spelman College were held in the basement of an Atlanta church. Originally the college was called the Atlanta Baptist Female Seminary. It was sponsored by the American Baptist Women’s Home Mission Society. Spelman ultimately became the nation’s African-American women’s premiere educational institution. U.S. […]
Archibald Carey, Sr. – March 23rd in African American History
March 23, 1931 Archibald Carey, Sr., political activist, writer and religious leader, died. Carey was born August 25, 1868 in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Atlanta University in 1888 and became a licensed preacher.
Clatonia Joaquin Dorticus – March 19th in African American History
March 19, 1895 Clatonia Joaquin Dorticus of Newton, New Jersey received patent number 535,820 for a device for applying coloring liquids to sides of soles or heels of shoes.
Wilson Pickett – March 18th in African American History
March 18, 1941 Wilson Pickett, R&B singer and songwriter, was born in Prattville, Alabama. In 1955, Pickett moved to Detroit, Michigan where he joined a gospel group and developed his forceful, passionate style of singing.