Black History Month

Sixteenth in a series from AAHAWM honoring Black History Month

The Tuskegee Airmen were the first Black military aviators in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. They made a significant contribution to the war effort and broke down racial barriers in the military. Today, they are celebrated for their bravery, dedication, and perseverance. As we celebrate Black History Month, it is important to honor these heroes and their contributions to American history.

The Tuskegee Airmen were trained at the Tuskegee Army Air Field in Alabama. At the time, the military was segregated, and African Americans were not allowed to fly in combat. Despite these obstacles, the Tuskegee Airmen persevered, excelling in their training and proving themselves as capable and skilled pilots. They went on to fly missions in North Africa and Europe, earning numerous awards and distinctions for their service.

During the war, the Tuskegee Airmen flew over 15,000 sorties and shot down 409 German aircraft. Their success in combat was a testament to their skill and determination, and it helped to break down racial barriers in the military. After the war, President Harry Truman signed Executive Order 9981, desegregating the armed forces and laying the foundation for greater equality in America.

Today, the Tuskegee Airmen are remembered as trailblazers and heroes. Their legacy continues to inspire new generations, and their story serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance, dedication, and breaking down barriers. As we celebrate Black History Month, we should honor their contributions to American history. Their story is an important reminder of the progress we have made, as well as the work that still needs to be done to achieve true equality and justice for all. [1][2][3]

Fifteenth in a series from AAHAWM honoring Black History Month

Captain Robert Smalls is a true American hero and a pioneer of his time. Born on April 5, 1839 in Beaufort, South Carolina, Robert Smalls was enslaved by a local planter. However, despite the odds against him, Smalls did something truly remarkable – in the midst of the American Civil War, he commandeered a Confederate ship, the CSS Planter, and delivered its 16 black passengers, including women and children, to freedom [1].

Smalls’ bravery and quick thinking made him a war hero, and he became a famous figure in the black community. After the Civil War, he continued to make waves as a prominent leader in the Reconstruction era, including serving in both the state and national governments [3].

Smalls’ daring escape from slavery using a Confederate ship that he commandeered captivated the nation and inspired many in the Union to push for Emancipation. Smalls’ ability to pilot a Confederate naval vessel through the harbor defenses of Charleston, SC in May 1862 helped to convince President Lincoln and others that African Americans should be given the opportunity to fight with Union forces. Smalls would go on to command Union naval vessels during the Civil War and become an influential U.S. Congressman.

Captain Robert Smalls is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit, and serves as an inspiration to all who hear his story. He went from being a slave to a war hero, and then to a respected political leader, making a lasting impact on the course of American history. Let us celebrate this Black History Month by remembering the legacy of Captain Robert Smalls and honoring his contributions to our nation.

Fourteenth in a series from AAHAWM honoring Black History Month.

Frederick Douglass is a revered figure in African American history, and February 14th marks his birthday and is celebrated as Frederick Douglass Day. [1].

Born into slavery in Maryland in or around 1818, Douglass rose to prominence as a leader in the abolitionist movement and an advocate for the rights of Black people. Despite being born into enslavement, Douglass was able to educate himself and eventually escape to freedom. He then went on to become a renowned orator, newspaper publisher, and author, with his first autobiography, “Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, Written by Himself” being one of his most famous works. [2, 3].

Frederick Douglass’ life and legacy continue to inspire and provide hope for millions of people to this day. His brilliant words and courageous actions shaped the way we think about race, democracy, and the meaning of freedom. [2].

Douglass never knew his exact birthdate, but he chose to celebrate it annually on February 14th. On Frederick Douglass Day, we celebrate the life and achievements of this important historical figure and recognize the contributions of African Americans to our country’s history. In honor of Black History Month, let us reflect on the legacy of Frederick Douglass and continue to work towards a more just and equal society for all.

Lean more at https://douglassday.org/

 

Thirteenth in a series from AAHAWM honoring Black History Month

Maj. Martin Robison Delany was an influential figure in African American history, known for his contributions as an abolitionist and advocate for black nationalism. Born in Charles Town, Virginia in 1812 to a slave father and a free mother, Delany grew up to be a prominent voice in the fight against slavery. He was the first African American Field Officer in the U.S Army and was one of the earliest individuals to promote a return to Africa for black Americans. [2].

In addition to his activism, Delany was a physician and editor, and his views on black nationalism and racial pride set the stage for similar expressions in the years to come. Delany was a radical pre-Civil War abolitionist and served in the American Civil War, earning a reputation as a determined and uncompromising advocate for black rights and equality. [1].

Overall, Martin Robinson Delany was a complex and multifaceted individual, who left an indelible mark on African American history. His legacy as a pioneering black nationalist, abolitionist, and veteran of the Civil War continues to inspire people to this day. As we celebrate Black History Month, it is important to recognize and honor individuals like Delany, who dedicated their lives to the fight for justice and equality. [3].

Twelfth in a series from AAHAWM honoring Black History Month

Born into slavery in Maryland in the early 1820s, Harriet Tubman is an icon in American history, known for her tireless work as an abolitionist, conductor on the Underground Railroad, and nurse, spy, and guerrilla soldier during the Civil War  [1, 3].

Despite the hardships and danger she faced, Tubman made over 13 missions to rescue approximately 70 enslaved people, including family and friends, using the Underground Railroad. During the Civil War, she served as a nurse, cook, and spy for the Union army, and was later an advocate for women’s suffrage. [1].

After the Civil War, Tubman settled in Auburn, New York, and opened the Harriet Tubman Home for Indigent Aged Negroes. The home served as a safe haven for the elderly and orphans and was supported by former abolitionist allies and the citizens of Auburn. [2].

Harriet Tubman’s bravery, determination, and selflessness have inspired generations, and she continues to be a symbol of the fight for freedom and equality. On this Black History Month, we honor her legacy and celebrate the impact she has had on our country and the world.