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First African Slaves Brought to Jamestown
The first recorded Africans are brought to the English colony of Jamestown, Virginia, marking the beginning of the transatlantic slave trade to America.
This event initiates a centuries-long period of enslavement, racial discrimination, and systemic inequality that will deeply shape African American identity. Resource: Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, "1619 Project", by The New York Times. -
Emancipation Proclamation
President Abraham Lincoln signs the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring the freedom of slaves in Confederate states. While it did not immediately free all slaves, it was a significant turning point, laying the groundwork for the abolition of slavery in the U.S. Reference: U.S. National Archives, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library. -
13th Amendment
The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is ratified, abolishing slavery in the United States. This legalizes freedom for African Americans, though racial discrimination continues, especially in the south. Reference: U.S. Congress, African Americans, President Andrew Johnson. -
Plessy v. Ferguson
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Plessy v. Ferguson that racial segregation is legal under the doctrine of "separate but equal". This decision entrenches racial segregation and discrimination, particularly in the south, which lasts for decades. Reference: Plessy v. Ferguson case, U.S. Supreme Court history. -
Brown v. Board of Education
The U.S. Supreme Court overturns Plessy v. Ferguson, ruling that racial segregation in public schools is unconstitutional. A landmark ruling that paves the way for the Civil Rights Movement and challenges racial segregation across the U.S. Reference: Brown v. Board of Education case, National Archives. -
The Murder of Emmett Till
The Murder of 14-year-old Emmett Till in Mississippi, followed by his open-casket funeral, sparks national outrage and helps ignite the Civil Rights Movement. The case draws widespread attention to the horrors of racial violence in the South, catalyzing activism and awareness of systemic racism. Reference: "The murder of Emmett Till" by Timothy B. Tyson, Civil Rights Movement archives. -
March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom
Over 250,000 people gather in Washington, D.C. to demand civil and economic rights, including an end to job discrimination. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivers his famous "I have a dream" speech. This marks one of the largest and most impactful demonstrations in U.S. history and strengthens the call for the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Reference: "The March on Washington" from the National Archives, Martin Luther King Jr. speech. -
Civil Rights Act
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is passed, prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in public places and employment. This landmark legislation marks a major victory in the Civil Rights Movement, significantly improving legal rights and social equality for African Americans. -
Election of Barack Obama
Barack Obama becomes the first African American President of the United States, symbolizing significant progress in racial equality and political inclusion. This momentous event breaks a racial barrier that had existed for over two centuries in U.S. Presidential politics. Reference: Election results, Barack Obama's autobiography "The Audacity of Hope." -
Black Lives Matter and Protests
Following the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer, protests erupt globally under the Black Lives Matter movement, demanding an end to police brutality and racial injustice. This marks a renewed call for systemic change, with widespread participation across racial lines, and a push for reforms in policing, social justice, and race relations. Reference: "The Black Lives Matter Movement" reports, new coverage of George Floyd protests.