Author Archives: The Black Blog

On February 17, 1942, Huey P. Newton was born. Huey P. Newton was an influential activist and leader. He co-founded the Black Panther Party. Notable civil rights and political activists Huey Newton and Bobby Seale founded the Black Panther Party in 1966. The Black Panther Party looked to uplift and protect black communities and families by focusing on social reform and community initiatives.

On February 16, 1904, James Baskett was born. James Baskett was one of the first African Americans to win an Oscar. In 1948, he received an honorary Oscar for his role Uncle Remus in ‘Song of the South.’

On February 15, 1965, Nat King Cole died at the age of 45. Nat King Cole was a famous singer and jazz pianist during the mid 1900s.

On February 14, 1867, Augusta Institute, known today as Morehouse College, was founded by Reverend William Jefferson White. In 1929, the name was officially changed to Morehouse College. Today Morehouse College is a prestigious historically black university located in Atlanta, Georgia.

On February 13, 1920, The Negro National League was founded by Andrew Foster and others. The Negro National League welcomed black baseball players who were barred from joining the Major Leagues due to racial discrimination. Legendary baseball players like Jackie Robinson and Leroy “Satchel” Paige played in the Negro Leagues before joining the Majors. 

On February 12, 1909, The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was founded. The NAACP was created to advocate, uplift and advance black people. Today, the NAACP still serves a powerful role in the black community. 

On February 11, 1958, Ruth Carol Taylor became the first black flight attendant. She made history during a flight from Ithaca to New York City.

On February 10, 1992, Alex Haley died. Alex Haley was a famous writer. Haley is the author of Roots: The Saga of an American Family and The Autobiography of Malcolm X.

On February 9, 1971, Leroy “Satchel” Paige was nominated to the Baseball Hall of Fame. Leroy “Satchel” Paige was a professional baseball pitcher during the mid 1920’s. He broke through color barriers during his career. Paige made history as the first African American pitcher to pitch in a World Series game. He was also as the oldest player to debut in the Major Leagues on his 42nd birthday.

On February 8, 1944, Harry McAlpin became the first black journalist to attend a White House press conference.