Following the Civil War, Illinois was still not a welcoming place for African Americans. Although the Illinois Black Codes were repealed when the 13th Amendment ending slavery passed, the legislation does not immediately change hearts. Generations of prejudice keeping African … Continued
Why was Stephen Hopkins important? Account of a self made man.
Who was the first black Congresswoman from Texas?
Who served in the Senate for three different states?
Blanche Bruce (March 1, 1841 – March 17, 1898) In every job, there has to be someone who is the first to do it. Trailblazing is not always easy or comfortable. Blanche Bruce was the first African American to serve a … Continued
One of the lesser known founding fathers, Samuel Huntington was early proof of the fact that in America, a man with ambition willing to work hard can achieve almost anything. Samuel was not born rich or privileged, like so many … Continued
Sam Watkins and the Footrace of Murfreesboro Sam Watkins was a Confederate soldier with the First Tennessee regiment. He’s one of many that left colorful accounts of his time during the war. Sometime near the Battle of Shelbysville, June 27, … Continued
“I walked up to the guard who had let the white students in. He didn’t move. When I tried to squeeze past him, he raised his bayonet and then the other guards moved in and they raised their bayonets. They glared at me with a mean look and I was very frightened and didn’t know what to do. I turned around and the crowd came toward me. They moved closer and closer. Somebody started yelling, “Drag her over this tree! Let’s take care of that nigger!”
Civil War Day – How did nurses saving lives view the opposition? Kate Cumming, Confederate nurse writes: May 30, 1864 —We have had a great deal of excitement lately. Word was brought in by someone that five thousand Federal cavalry … Continued
Signers of the Declaration of Independence Jefferson is so well known and recognized, it is difficult to tell anything of him that is unusual. Of the many signers, he and Benjamin Franklin probably wrote the most and left the most … Continued