Historical Events tagged with "african american"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Military & Warfare

Commissioning of USS Harmon

August 31st, 1943 81 years ago

USS Harmon was the first U.S. Navy vessel named after a black person, honoring Ensign Jesse L. Brown, the Navy's first African American naval aviator. Commissioned in 1943, the ship symbolized progress for racial recognition within the military during World War II. The ceremony was marked by notable attendance and a commitment to diversity in the armed forces. USS Harmon played a pivotal role in the Navy, reflecting a significant shift in attitudes towards inclusion in a segregated milieu.

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Military & Warfare

Benjamin O. Davis Sr. Becomes First African American General

October 25th, 1940 84 years ago

Benjamin O. Davis Sr. was appointed as the first African American general in the United States Army. This milestone took place during a time when racial segregation was prevalent in the military and society at large. Davis's promotion was significant as it challenged the prevailing attitudes regarding race and military leadership. His distinguished service played a critical role in advocating for racial equality within the armed forces.

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Arts & Culture

Hattie McDaniel Wins First African American Oscar

February 29th, 1940 85 years ago

Hattie McDaniel made history as the first African American to win an Academy Award for her role as Mammy in the film 'Gone with the Wind.' The award ceremony held in Los Angeles highlighted her outstanding performance in a challenging role that showcased the complexities of African American life during a time of widespread racial discrimination. Her win was a point of pride for many yet remained a stark contrast to the racial realities of Hollywood and America at large.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Mary McLeod Bethune Founds NCNW

December 5th, 1935 89 years ago

Mary McLeod Bethune established the National Council of Negro Women in New York City to unite various women's organizations across the United States. This coalition aimed to address issues affecting African American women and their communities, advocating for civil rights, education, and social welfare. The organization was created to harness the power of collective action among women and provide a platform for them to voice their concerns. Bethune's leadership inspired many in the community and set a precedent for future activism.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Arrest of the Scottsboro Boys in Alabama

March 25th, 1931 93 years ago

Nine African American teenagers, known as the Scottsboro Boys, were arrested in Alabama and charged with raping two white women on a freight train. The incident occurred after a group of black teenagers and white women were found together on the train, leading to allegations of rape. The arrest initiated a notorious legal battle that raised significant issues concerning race, justice, and civil rights in America.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Bessie Coleman becomes first Black female pilot

June 15th, 1921 103 years ago

Bessie Coleman earned her pilot's license in June 1921, making history as the first female pilot of African-American descent. Born in Atlanta, Texas, in 1892, Coleman faced significant racial and gender barriers during her pursuit of aviation. Undeterred, she traveled to France to obtain her license after being denied entry to flight schools in the United States. Her achievement not only exemplified determination and courage but also served as an inspiration for future generations of aviators.

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Sports & Recreation

Fritz Pollard Joins the Akron Pros

September 18th, 1919 105 years ago

Fritz Pollard made history by becoming the first African American player to compete in professional football for a major team, the Akron Pros. Pollard’s talent as a halfback quickly garnered attention, helping to pave the way for future generations of African American athletes in the sport. The pros played in the early days of what would eventually become the National Football League, showcasing a blend of athleticism and strategy in an era where racial barriers were still prevalent in sports. Pollard's role on the team was significant, not only for his skill set but also for the representation of African Americans in a previously segregated league.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Silent Parade Protests Racial Violence

July 28th, 1917 107 years ago

The Silent Parade in New York City was a powerful demonstration organized by African American leaders to protest against the rise of racial violence, including lynchings and murders, faced by their community. Participants marched silently down Fifth Avenue, wearing black attire, and holding placards that highlighted the injustices. This event drew significant attention, showcasing the unity of African Americans in the face of systemic racism and calling for justice and civil rights.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Founding of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity

January 9th, 1914 111 years ago

Phi Beta Sigma fraternity was founded by African-American students at Howard University in Washington, D.C., aiming to foster brotherhood, scholarship, and service among its members. Founded by A. Langston Taylor, Leonard F. Morse, and Charles I. Brown, the fraternity sought to address the social challenges faced by African-American men and emphasize the importance of community service and academic excellence. The fraternity's establishment marked a significant step in civil rights and provided a platform for African-American students to unite and support one another during a time of racial segregation.

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