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.

Sports & Recreation

Inaugural Game of the Negro National League

May 2nd, 1920 104 years ago

The first game of the Negro National League was held in Indianapolis, marking the beginning of a new era for African American baseball. Charley Thomas's Indianapolis ABCs faced the Chicago Giants, and the ABCs won 9-5. This league was established to provide a platform for Black players when Major League Baseball was segregated, allowing them to showcase their talents in organized play.

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Religion & Philosophy

First African-American Orthodox Priest Ordained

August 15th, 1907 117 years ago

Fr. Raphael Morgan was ordained as the first African-American Orthodox priest in Constantinople, marking a significant milestone for African Americans in the Orthodox Church. His ordination was conducted by Patriarch Joachim III, who recognized the necessity of uplifting the African-American community. Morgan's role was pivotal in establishing a bridge between Orthodoxy and African-Americans, contributing to the spread of the faith throughout America and the West Indies.

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Education & Academia

Patrick Francis Healy Becomes Georgetown President

July 31st, 1874 150 years ago

Patrick Francis Healy was inaugurated as president of Georgetown University, making history as the first African-American to hold such a position at a predominantly white institution. Healy, a member of the Society of Jesus, had previously served in various teaching capacities at Georgetown and was recognized for his leadership in academia. His election was a notable step towards diversity in higher education during a period characterized by racial segregation and discrimination in the United States.

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Politics & Government

Hiram Rhodes Revels Sworn into U.S. Senate

February 25th, 1870 155 years ago

Hiram Rhodes Revels took the oath of office as a United States Senator representing Mississippi. This moment marked a significant milestone in American political history, as Revels became the first African American to serve in the U.S. Congress. His election was a result of the Reconstruction Era's efforts to rebuild the South and integrate formerly enslaved individuals into the political sphere. Revels delivered a speech emphasizing unity and the importance of education for all citizens, particularly the newly freed African Americans.

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Arts & Culture

Phillis Wheatley Gains Freedom from Slavery

October 18th, 1775 249 years ago

Phillis Wheatley, an acclaimed African-American poet, was officially freed from slavery in 1775. Born in West Africa and brought to Boston as a child, she was educated by the family that enslaved her, the Wheatleys. Her talent for poetry flourished, and she became the first published African-American female poet, gaining recognition for her works that addressed themes of freedom and religion.

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