This Week in History, September 26 - October 2:
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.

September 26
On this day in 1929, biochemist Ida Stephens Owens was born. Her pioneering research on the genetics of detoxification enzymes helped scientists understand how the body defends itself against poisons.

September 27
On this day in 2003, a group of 116 Nigerian boys were rescued from a slave labor camp in Nigeria, where they were being forced to work in the granite quarries. The boys, some of whom were as young as four, had been sold to the traffickers for as little as $35 each by their parents.

September 28
On this day in 1785, abolitionist and publisher David Walker was born. Owner of a secondhand clothing store on the Boston waterfront, he concealed copies of his Appeal in the large pockets of the clothing he shipped, reasoning that they would reach Southern ports and pass through the hands of other used-clothes dealers who would know what to do with them.

September 29
On this day in 1863, African-American attorney Cornelius Fitzgerald was born. He practiced law in Baltimore for forty-two years, with a practice that focused on estate law and real estate law, and was a major contributor to various charitable and humanitarian foundations.

September 30
On this day in 1887, Florida A&M University was founded. It is one of more than 100 historical Black colleges and universities in America.

October 1
On this day in 1939, African-American astrophysicist and inventor George Carruthers was born. A member of a variety of professional associations and winner of numerous awards, he is editor of the Journal of the National Technical Association.

October 2
On this day in 1967, Thurgood Marshall was sworn in and became the first African-American justice on the United States Supreme Court.