Civil Rights Act of 1964 - #BlackHistoryFact

In this short video from the History Channel, the significance of this legislation is discussed. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin.

America the Story of Us: Frederick Douglass

Frederick Douglass, a former slave and eminent human rights leader in the abolition movement, was the first black citizen to hold a high U.S. government rank. He became one of the most famous intellectuals of his time. Douglass writings include several autobiographies where he details his experiences in slavery and life after the Civil War. Douglass served as a recruiter for African American troops during the war. He also advised President Lincoln on at least two occasions. For 16 years he edited an influential black newspaper and achieved international fame as an inspiring and persuasive speaker and writer.

Below is a short documentary on Frederick Douglass entitled "America the Story of Us: Frederick Douglass".
 
After the Civil War, Frederick Douglass fought for the rights of women and African Americans alike.

Shirley Chisholm - 1st African American woman elected to the House of Representatives

Shirley Chisholm...have you heard of her?  If not let's provide some great facts about this visionary.  In 1968 Shirley Chisholm was the first African American woman elected to the House of Representatives.  Shirley represented the state of New York.  During Shirley's 2nd term in the House, she decided to run for the US Presidency.  She became the 1st black woman to run for president!  Although she did not win Shirley was determined to make a change.

Shirley served 14 years in Congress and she will always be an inspiration to many.  She retired in 1982 but her work was not done.  Chisolm continued to teach and educate the masses.  She co-founded the National Political Congress of Black Women.  Unbossed and Unbought was a well know quote and she lived her life just that way.  Thank you Shirley Chisolm. 

Check out her book Unbought and Unbossed. 

Click here to read more about Shirley Chisolm check out this site 

picture source