Black - African American History Facts

Congress declared foreign slave trade an act of piracy, punishable by death on this date in 1820.

The first black Greek-letter organization, Sigma Pi Phi, was formed in Philadelphia, PA, at the home of Henry McKee Minton on this date in 1904. The group's purpose was to meet the needs of black professionals and business leaders, and to address social issues.

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, originally founded at Indiana University, was incorporated on this date in 1911.

In what has been called the "Waco Horror," over 15,000 people attended a public lynching of a black man on this date in 1916. Jesse Washington was burned alive in a public square in Waco, TX.

The 93rd Infantry, the first black division to be assembled during World War II, was activated on this date in 1942. The division was located at Fort Huachuca, AZ.

Camilla Williams, famed opera singer, performed as "Madame Butterfly" in New York City on this date in 1946. Williams was the first black opera singer contracted with a major U.S. opera organization.

James Van Der Zee, photographer, famous for his works in the "Harlem Renaissance," died on this date in 1983.