This Week in History, April 24-30: Contributions of African-Americans

Note: Here, learn about some of the African-Americans who have influenced history and contributed to the culture we now enjoy. To learn more about each individual, click on that person's name. Information for "This Week in History" is taken from the African American Registry. April 24 On this day in 1869, African-American barber and policeman Lafayette Tillman was born. In addition to a number of other vocations, he was among the first Black men to be admitted to the Kansas City police force. April 25 On this day in 1799, African-American abolitionist Dred Scott was born into slavery. He fought in the courts, suing the United States government for his freedom, a lawsuit that resulted in the famous Dred Scott Decision. Also on this day in 1918, African-American jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald was born. Called "the first lady of song," she won 14 Grammy awards—including a Lifetime Achievement Award—and is credited with bringing jazz into mainstream American culture. April 26 on this date in 1886, African-American politician William Levi Dawson was born. Serving in the United States Congress for almost three decades as a representative from Illinois, he was the first Black to be appointed chairman of a Congressional committee. April 27 On this day in 1927, African-American activist and author Coretta Scott King was born. An early activist and prononent of equal rights, she carried on the work of her husband; after many years of giving speeches and heading up fundraising, she was able to open Atlanta's Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Non Violent Social Change. April 28 On this day in 1846, Jeremiah Haralson was born. Born a slave, he taught himself how to read and write, becoming a powerful orator and debator. He was elected to the United States Congress as a representative from Alabama. April 29 On this day in 1870, African-American physician J. Edward Perry was born. Dedicated to patient care, he opened a hospital in Kansas City, where he developed strong medical and pediatric units to serve the minority community. Because of his dedication, many African-American doctors and nurses received quality training, and many patients’ lives were saved. Also on this day in 1881, African-American architect Julian Abele was born. The designer of an impressive roster of buildings, he is considered the first major African-American architect in the United States. April 30 On this day in 1862, L'Union began publication in New Orleans. The first Black newspaper in the South, the paper primarily spoke for the state's established community of free people of color, although it also spoke for slaves and newly-freed Blacks.