Black - African American History Facts

W. E. B. Du Bois, activist, author, and educator, organized the first Pan African Congress in Paris on this date in 1919. The treatment of black soldiers who were fighting in World War I was a major topic that was addressed.

William "Smokey" Robinson, legendary recording artist and lead singer of the "Miracles," was born on this date in 1940.

John Singleton, film director, became the first black director to receive an "Academy Award" nomination on this date in 1992. Singleton received two nominations for his film Boyz N the Hood.

Kenya Moore, a 22-year-old competing as "Miss Michigan," was crowned "Miss USA," on this date in 1993. Moore was the second black woman to win the title in the pageant's 42-year history.