Black - African American History Facts

Alexander Thomas Augusta, the U.S. Army's first black surgeon, was born in Norfolk, VA, on this date in 1825.

P. B. S. Pinchback, the first black state Governor (Louisiana), was denied his seat by the Senate on this date in 1876.

Louise Beavers best known for her character actor roles in both silent and sound films was born in Cincinnati, OH on this date in 1902. Beavers performed in more than 100 films including: "Uncle Tom's Cabin" and "Imitation of Life." Beavers was inducted posthumously into the black Filmmakers Hall of Fame in 1976.

Phyllis Mae Dailey was appointed to the Navy Nurses Corps on this date in 1945. Dailey was the first black nurse to receive this appointment.

The United Nations formally proclaimed March 8 International Women's Day on this date in 1975. This day has been observed since the early 1900s in recognition of protests in the US and Europe to honor and fight for rights for women and to celebrate the achievements of women.

Henry L. Marsh was elected mayor of Richmond, VA, on this date in 1977.

A coalition of civil rights organizations, elected officials, labor leaders, and women's rights leaders rallied to support Florida's affirmative action laws on this date in 2000. Kweisi Mfume, NAACP President & CEO, led an estimated 50,000 demonstrators in the Tallahassee, FL, march.