Black - African American History Facts

Isaac Burns Murphy, jockey who rode a horse named "Kingman," became the first person to win the Kentucky Derby three times on this date in 1891. Murphy also won in 1884 and 1890.

Joe Louis, World Heavyweight Boxing Champion, was born in Lexington, AL, on this date in 1914. Louis defended his title for 12 years during an amazing span of 25 title fights.

Stevie Wonder (born Steveland Judkins Morris), legendary singer and composer, was born in Saginaw, MI, on this date in 1950. "Mon Cherie Amour," "Signed, Sealed, Delivered I'm Yours," and "I Just Called to Say I Love You" are some of his huge hits.

(James) Charles Evers, civil rights activist, became mayor of Fayette, MS, on this date in 1969.

Police and firemen in Philadelphia, PA, firebombed 61 homes on this date in 1985, killing 11 innocent people, five of whom were children. This barbaric act was supposedly an attempt to capture members of a group named MOVE.

George Augustus Stallings was ordained the first Bishop of the African-American Catholic Church on this date in 1990.