Re: African American History Month Thread
Yea it was a mistake. . . Didn't see it was up already. I'm gonna take it down.
Yea it was a mistake. . . Didn't see it was up already. I'm gonna take it down.
Black History Month Thread
- Thread starter Chicutie
- Start date
Re: African American History Month Thread
Well the title of the thread is African American HistoryBTW I can't post alot of the people i want to post like Paul Bogle and Toussaint L'Overture
and Robert Athyli Rogers because they are not "African American"
Re: African American History Month Thread
Should be BLACK history and should be year round.Well the title of the thread is African American History
Re: African American History Month Thread
Care to explain why? Not that i disagree, but i wanna see where you stand on this.
Care to explain why? Not that i disagree, but i wanna see where you stand on this.
Re: African American History Month Thread
I notice in this country every february there is all this hoopla. Then people forget all about it for the rest of the year. All Black people went thru the same struggles and to limit it to just African americans is self defeating and excludes ALOT. Marcus Garvey is just as relevant to you americans as Malcolm X.
I notice in this country every february there is all this hoopla. Then people forget all about it for the rest of the year. All Black people went thru the same struggles and to limit it to just African americans is self defeating and excludes ALOT. Marcus Garvey is just as relevant to you americans as Malcolm X.
Re: African American History Month Thread
I don't mind if you post things that are not necessarily "African American" history. I think it would be a good addition and something that I could personally learn from. I don't think anyone else will mind either so you do your thing.
BTW I can't post alot of the people i want to post like Paul Bogle and Toussaint L'Overture
and Robert Athyli Rogers because they are not "African American"
I don't mind if you post things that are not necessarily "African American" history. I think it would be a good addition and something that I could personally learn from. I don't think anyone else will mind either so you do your thing.
Re: African American History Month Thread
I understand where you're coming from, but you can't lump everyones history together. African Americans are as unique to this country as Jamaicans are to Jamaica ect... We all had the same struggle, but with different stories. I'm with you on Black history all year round featuring ALL Black cultures, but to label the accomplishments of this country's native black people as "self defeating" is wrong on all levels.
Re: African American History Month Thread
I am not saying the accomplishments are self defeating I am saying disregarding everyone else is. The actual name of the month is "Black History Month" not "African american history month".
Also Chi I will get to posting later when my hangover is better. I am a mess right now.
I am not saying the accomplishments are self defeating I am saying disregarding everyone else is. The actual name of the month is "Black History Month" not "African american history month".
Also Chi I will get to posting later when my hangover is better. I am a mess right now.
Re: African American History Month Thread
Aye, look let's kill this Island born american and continental born american shit now. Africa is a continent and so is america. Both have various countries within them. The success of one Black person on Mars has a tremendous effect on us all....
Aye, look let's kill this Island born american and continental born american shit now. Africa is a continent and so is america. Both have various countries within them. The success of one Black person on Mars has a tremendous effect on us all....
Re: African American History Month Thread
At one point in time, the island of Haiti was jointly owned by Spain and France, each claiming one half of the island as its colony. The climate there proved ideal for the growing of sugar cane, and soon the white people established large plantations. Originally, they utilized the forced labor of the natives. But these native peoples were soon wiped out by the strange and new diseases brought by the French and Spanish. Thus, Africans were imported to do the labor instead. But little was the world aware that this pattern of life in Haiti was soon to change. With the birth of a child named Toussaint L’Ouverture, Haiti’s future was forever altered.
Francois-Dominique Toussaint L’Ouverture was likely born on November 1, 1743, though this date has been disputed. He was born into slavery on a plantation under the ownership of Count de Breda. Toussaint’s father, an African named Gaou-Guinou and probably a member of the Arrada tribe, had been deported from his native country and brought to the island of Haiti to labor as a slave on the lucrative sugar plantations of the white men. Toussaint was the oldest the eight children—five of which were boys and three of which were girls. However, in his formative years, Toussaint was allowed by the plantation overseer the rare privilege of learning to read and write. He soon began reading everything available to him. Authors of these books included Plutarch, Epictetus, Caesar, Saxe, and, especially influential in Toussaint’s life, Abbé Raynal. In addition, Toussaint was raised in the beliefs of Roman Catholicism, the official religion of the island. Throughout the rest of his life, his faith played an important roll in shaping both his actions and his personality. Toussaint possessed an innate skill for leadership, and this talent combined with his calm, but persistent, nature to create one of the greatest leaders of all time. Compared to most other slaves in the region, Toussaint was well off, serving as a coachman and house servant instead of toiling in the fields. Yet, good conditions or poor, he was still a slave, another man’s property.
But later on, Toussaint’s life changed drastically. By the age of approximately 33 Toussaint had gained his freedom, and just in time. For shortly thereafter, on October 30 in the year of 1971, the slaves of Haiti staged a massive revolt against the whites of the island. Believing that God wished slavery to be abolished and had called him to lead Haiti out of enslavement, Toussaint did engage in the revolt. But he acted as the doctor for the black army instead of joining the others in their ruthless massacre of the whites. In addition, before the insurrection, he helped his master’s family to escape the country safely. However, the revolt was eventually subdued and the slaves were once again subjugated to their former status. After the uprising was defeated, Toussaint remained in the French portion of the island, even though most of the other black leaders of the revolt fled to the Spanish side of Haiti and were given high-ranking posts. It was not until France turned from a monarchy into a republic that Toussaint is reported to have averted to the Spanish to help them in their conquest against the French. Toussaint experienced incredible success as a general, and soon, France desired him to return. And due to the February 4, 1794 abolishment of slavery by the National Assembly, Toussaint did return to the French’s aide. Having done so, Napoleon designated him Commander-in-Chief of the colony.
Upon his return to the French, he found several tasks awaiting him. First, the Spaniards were still attempting to gain control over the French portion of Haiti. So Toussaint, gathering an army supplied by the French Governor Polvenel, defeated the Spanish. The Treaty of Basel forced Spain to relinquish its holdings in Haiti, but promised peace between the two countries. Toussaint next set out to work against the internal discord of the country that divided the French peoples of different races and colors. In addition, Toussaint mustered another army and advanced against the British who had been encroaching upon French’s territory in Haiti. Leaving the British general Sir Thomas Brisbane safely trapped in Fort St. Nicholas, Toussaint began implementing a plan to replace the French white men who held political offices in Haiti with blacks by creating subtle excuses to send the white officials on assignments to France. Finally, even the governor had left, and Toussaint replaced him with a black man by the name of Raymond.
With peace now established and the entire island now under control, though only for a brief time, Toussaint began implementing social reforms and improving the country’s infrastructure. Racial discrimination was non-existent in Toussaint’s choices of advisors and governmental personal. He based his decisions solely upon a person’s ability to perform a needed task. Toussaint constructed roads, repaired forts, enhanced agriculture, restructured the country’s armed forces, built schools for the black children, and declared free trade throughout the country. However, in an effort to keep Haiti economically stable and prosperous, Toussaint invited the former plantation owners to return to the country and ensured them that the blacks would again work for them, but only for payment. Yet this was not satisfactory to the Africans and soon his people rose up against him, led by his own nephew. After he finished subduing this outburst, the island’s mulatto population (those of mixed blood) revolted under General Rigaud. Toussaint then turned to the United Sates for assistance, promising President John Adams that if the US would support him against the mulattoes, he would deny France the use of Haiti as a platform for maneuvers in North America. With the aid of American forces, the insurrection was soon defeated, and in 1800, Rigaud and his remaining men fled the country.
These social upheavals were again followed by a short time of peace, in which Toussaint undertook the writing and establishment of the country’s constitution. This constitution ensured liberty and equality for all peoples regardless of race or color. It also named Toussaint as governor of the country for life and provided him the right to choose his successor. However, this did not settle well with the now jealous French commander Napoleon. Enraged, in January of 1802 Napoleon sent an army of approximately 20,000 men under the command of general Leclerc against Toussaint, but did so under a pretext of peace. Toussaint, however, saw through these deceptions and gathered an army from among the Haitians. War ensued, and the death toll climbed high. But in the French camp this was more often due to the deadly smallpox disease which many of the soldiers contracted. Yet, eventually, Toussaint’s forces were utterly exhausted and on May 5, 1802 he accepted a peace treaty with Leclerc which ensured Haiti’s independence and allowed Toussaint to retire to his estates in peace, provided that the fighting ceased. But treachery was afoot. Leclerc, under Napoleons orders, later invited Toussaint to a meeting where, despite Leclerc’s promise of safe conduct, the general had him captured, bound hand and foot, and put aboard a waiting ship. Toussaint was then transported to France and thrown into the dungeon of Fort de Joux in the Jura Mountains. And on April 7, 1803, Toussaint L’Ouverture died of apoplexy, pneumonia, and starvation.
After Toussaint’s death, Haiti was restored to French domination and slavery was re-implemented. Toussaint’s life seemed a failure—ineffective and useless. But as history now reveals, this was far from the case. The taste of freedom that Toussaint had enabled the Haitians to feel was not in vain. Just six months later, Napoleon, preoccupied with wars in Europe, relinquished his holdings in the New World. Having already lost thousands of soldiers in Haiti alone, the colonies proved too much work to be worth their keeping. So Napoleon allowed Haiti its independence and sold his possession of the western North American continent to the United States in the Louisiana Purchase. Haiti’s independence is owed to Toussaint’s workings for freedom of both slaves and the country. Toussaint obviously had his own faults, and his life was not without mistakes and questionable regulations. Yet despite this, Toussaint’s life clearly was not lived in vain. His accomplishments remain visible even today. On the day of Toussaint’s birth, the world had no idea what kind of a man had been brought into being; but now this man will never be forgotten.
L’Ouverture, Toussaint
1743(?)-1803
Liberator of Haiti
1743(?)-1803
Liberator of Haiti
At one point in time, the island of Haiti was jointly owned by Spain and France, each claiming one half of the island as its colony. The climate there proved ideal for the growing of sugar cane, and soon the white people established large plantations. Originally, they utilized the forced labor of the natives. But these native peoples were soon wiped out by the strange and new diseases brought by the French and Spanish. Thus, Africans were imported to do the labor instead. But little was the world aware that this pattern of life in Haiti was soon to change. With the birth of a child named Toussaint L’Ouverture, Haiti’s future was forever altered.
Francois-Dominique Toussaint L’Ouverture was likely born on November 1, 1743, though this date has been disputed. He was born into slavery on a plantation under the ownership of Count de Breda. Toussaint’s father, an African named Gaou-Guinou and probably a member of the Arrada tribe, had been deported from his native country and brought to the island of Haiti to labor as a slave on the lucrative sugar plantations of the white men. Toussaint was the oldest the eight children—five of which were boys and three of which were girls. However, in his formative years, Toussaint was allowed by the plantation overseer the rare privilege of learning to read and write. He soon began reading everything available to him. Authors of these books included Plutarch, Epictetus, Caesar, Saxe, and, especially influential in Toussaint’s life, Abbé Raynal. In addition, Toussaint was raised in the beliefs of Roman Catholicism, the official religion of the island. Throughout the rest of his life, his faith played an important roll in shaping both his actions and his personality. Toussaint possessed an innate skill for leadership, and this talent combined with his calm, but persistent, nature to create one of the greatest leaders of all time. Compared to most other slaves in the region, Toussaint was well off, serving as a coachman and house servant instead of toiling in the fields. Yet, good conditions or poor, he was still a slave, another man’s property.
But later on, Toussaint’s life changed drastically. By the age of approximately 33 Toussaint had gained his freedom, and just in time. For shortly thereafter, on October 30 in the year of 1971, the slaves of Haiti staged a massive revolt against the whites of the island. Believing that God wished slavery to be abolished and had called him to lead Haiti out of enslavement, Toussaint did engage in the revolt. But he acted as the doctor for the black army instead of joining the others in their ruthless massacre of the whites. In addition, before the insurrection, he helped his master’s family to escape the country safely. However, the revolt was eventually subdued and the slaves were once again subjugated to their former status. After the uprising was defeated, Toussaint remained in the French portion of the island, even though most of the other black leaders of the revolt fled to the Spanish side of Haiti and were given high-ranking posts. It was not until France turned from a monarchy into a republic that Toussaint is reported to have averted to the Spanish to help them in their conquest against the French. Toussaint experienced incredible success as a general, and soon, France desired him to return. And due to the February 4, 1794 abolishment of slavery by the National Assembly, Toussaint did return to the French’s aide. Having done so, Napoleon designated him Commander-in-Chief of the colony.
Upon his return to the French, he found several tasks awaiting him. First, the Spaniards were still attempting to gain control over the French portion of Haiti. So Toussaint, gathering an army supplied by the French Governor Polvenel, defeated the Spanish. The Treaty of Basel forced Spain to relinquish its holdings in Haiti, but promised peace between the two countries. Toussaint next set out to work against the internal discord of the country that divided the French peoples of different races and colors. In addition, Toussaint mustered another army and advanced against the British who had been encroaching upon French’s territory in Haiti. Leaving the British general Sir Thomas Brisbane safely trapped in Fort St. Nicholas, Toussaint began implementing a plan to replace the French white men who held political offices in Haiti with blacks by creating subtle excuses to send the white officials on assignments to France. Finally, even the governor had left, and Toussaint replaced him with a black man by the name of Raymond.
With peace now established and the entire island now under control, though only for a brief time, Toussaint began implementing social reforms and improving the country’s infrastructure. Racial discrimination was non-existent in Toussaint’s choices of advisors and governmental personal. He based his decisions solely upon a person’s ability to perform a needed task. Toussaint constructed roads, repaired forts, enhanced agriculture, restructured the country’s armed forces, built schools for the black children, and declared free trade throughout the country. However, in an effort to keep Haiti economically stable and prosperous, Toussaint invited the former plantation owners to return to the country and ensured them that the blacks would again work for them, but only for payment. Yet this was not satisfactory to the Africans and soon his people rose up against him, led by his own nephew. After he finished subduing this outburst, the island’s mulatto population (those of mixed blood) revolted under General Rigaud. Toussaint then turned to the United Sates for assistance, promising President John Adams that if the US would support him against the mulattoes, he would deny France the use of Haiti as a platform for maneuvers in North America. With the aid of American forces, the insurrection was soon defeated, and in 1800, Rigaud and his remaining men fled the country.
These social upheavals were again followed by a short time of peace, in which Toussaint undertook the writing and establishment of the country’s constitution. This constitution ensured liberty and equality for all peoples regardless of race or color. It also named Toussaint as governor of the country for life and provided him the right to choose his successor. However, this did not settle well with the now jealous French commander Napoleon. Enraged, in January of 1802 Napoleon sent an army of approximately 20,000 men under the command of general Leclerc against Toussaint, but did so under a pretext of peace. Toussaint, however, saw through these deceptions and gathered an army from among the Haitians. War ensued, and the death toll climbed high. But in the French camp this was more often due to the deadly smallpox disease which many of the soldiers contracted. Yet, eventually, Toussaint’s forces were utterly exhausted and on May 5, 1802 he accepted a peace treaty with Leclerc which ensured Haiti’s independence and allowed Toussaint to retire to his estates in peace, provided that the fighting ceased. But treachery was afoot. Leclerc, under Napoleons orders, later invited Toussaint to a meeting where, despite Leclerc’s promise of safe conduct, the general had him captured, bound hand and foot, and put aboard a waiting ship. Toussaint was then transported to France and thrown into the dungeon of Fort de Joux in the Jura Mountains. And on April 7, 1803, Toussaint L’Ouverture died of apoplexy, pneumonia, and starvation.
After Toussaint’s death, Haiti was restored to French domination and slavery was re-implemented. Toussaint’s life seemed a failure—ineffective and useless. But as history now reveals, this was far from the case. The taste of freedom that Toussaint had enabled the Haitians to feel was not in vain. Just six months later, Napoleon, preoccupied with wars in Europe, relinquished his holdings in the New World. Having already lost thousands of soldiers in Haiti alone, the colonies proved too much work to be worth their keeping. So Napoleon allowed Haiti its independence and sold his possession of the western North American continent to the United States in the Louisiana Purchase. Haiti’s independence is owed to Toussaint’s workings for freedom of both slaves and the country. Toussaint obviously had his own faults, and his life was not without mistakes and questionable regulations. Yet despite this, Toussaint’s life clearly was not lived in vain. His accomplishments remain visible even today. On the day of Toussaint’s birth, the world had no idea what kind of a man had been brought into being; but now this man will never be forgotten.
Re: African American History Month Thread
I got you, but you cant forget what country you're in. If i moved to the Caribbean & they held a history celebration based on the people of that area I wouldnt expect to hear about African Americans.
All that said, when you recover from your hangover i'd like to read some of your post about Caribbean Black history.100
I got you, but you cant forget what country you're in. If i moved to the Caribbean & they held a history celebration based on the people of that area I wouldnt expect to hear about African Americans.
All that said, when you recover from your hangover i'd like to read some of your post about Caribbean Black history.100
Re: African American History Month Thread
In 1911 Garvey moved to England and briefly studied at Birbeck College where he met other blacks who were involved in the struggle to obtain independence from the British Empire. Inspired by what he heard he returned to Jamaica and established the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) and published the pamphlet, The Negro Race and Its Problems. Garvey was influenced by the ideas of Booker T. Washington and made plans to develop a trade school for the poor similar to the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama.
Garvey arrived in the United States on 23rd March 1916 and immediately launched a year-long tour of the country. He organized the first branch of UNIA in June 1917 and began published the Negro World, a journal that promoted his African nationalist ideas. Garvey's organization was extremely popular and by 1919 UNIA had 30 branches and over 2 million members.
Like the National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People (NAACP) Garvey campaigned against lynching, Jim Crow laws, denial of black voting rights and racial discrimination. Where UNIA differed from other civil rights organizations was on how the problem could be solved. Garvey doubted whether whites in the United States would ever agree to African Americans being treated as equals and argued for segregation rather than integration. Garvey suggested that African Americans should go and live in Africa. He wrote that he believed "in the principle of Europe for the Europeans, and Asia for the Asiatics" and "Africa for the Africans at home and abroad".
Garvey began to sign up recruits who were willing to travel to Africa and "clear out the white invaders". He formed an army, equipping them with uniforms and weapons. Garvey appealed to the new militant feelings of black that followed the end of the First World War and asked those African Americans who had been willing to fight for democracy in Europe to now join his army to fight for equal rights.
In 1919 Garvey formed the Black Cross Navigation and Trading Company. With $10,000,000 invested by his supporters Garvey purchased two steamships, Shadyside and Kanawha, to take African Americans to Africa. At a UNIA conference in August, 1920, Garvey was elected provisional president of Africa. He also had talks with the Ku Klux Klan about his plans to repatriate African Americans and published the first volume of Philosophy and Opinions of Marcus Garvey.
After making a couple of journeys to Africa the Black Cross Navigation and Trading Company ran out of money. Garvey was a poor businessman and although he was probably honest himself, several people in his company had been involved in corruption. Garvey was arrested and charged with fraud and in 1925 was sentenced to five years imprisonment. He had served half of his sentence when President Calvin Coolidge commuted the rest of his prison term and had him deported to Jamaica.
In 1928 Garvey went on a lecture tour of Britain, France, Belgium, Switzerland and Canada. On Garvey's return to Jamaica he established the People's Political Party and a new daily newspaper, The Blackman. The following year Garvey was defeated in the general election for a seat in Jamaica's colonial legislature.
In July, 1932, Garvey began publishing the evening newspaper, The New Jamaican. The venture was unsuccessful and the printing presses were seized for debts in 1933. He followed this with a monthly magazine, Black Man. He also launched an organization that he hoped would raise money to help create job opportunities for the rural poor in Jamaica.
The project was not a success and in March, 1935, Garvey moved to England where he published The Tragedy of White Injustice. Marcus Garvey continued to hold UNIA conventions and to tour the world making speeches on civil rights until his death in London on 10th June, 1940.
Marcus Mosiah Garvey
Marcus Garvey was born in St. Ann's Bay, Jamaica, on 17th August, 1887. After seven years of schooling he worked as a printer. He became an active trade unionist and in 1907 was elected vice president of compositors' branch of the printers' union. He helped lead a printer's strike (1908-09) and after it collapsed the union disintegrated. In 1911 Garvey moved to England and briefly studied at Birbeck College where he met other blacks who were involved in the struggle to obtain independence from the British Empire. Inspired by what he heard he returned to Jamaica and established the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) and published the pamphlet, The Negro Race and Its Problems. Garvey was influenced by the ideas of Booker T. Washington and made plans to develop a trade school for the poor similar to the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama.
Garvey arrived in the United States on 23rd March 1916 and immediately launched a year-long tour of the country. He organized the first branch of UNIA in June 1917 and began published the Negro World, a journal that promoted his African nationalist ideas. Garvey's organization was extremely popular and by 1919 UNIA had 30 branches and over 2 million members.
Like the National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People (NAACP) Garvey campaigned against lynching, Jim Crow laws, denial of black voting rights and racial discrimination. Where UNIA differed from other civil rights organizations was on how the problem could be solved. Garvey doubted whether whites in the United States would ever agree to African Americans being treated as equals and argued for segregation rather than integration. Garvey suggested that African Americans should go and live in Africa. He wrote that he believed "in the principle of Europe for the Europeans, and Asia for the Asiatics" and "Africa for the Africans at home and abroad".
Garvey began to sign up recruits who were willing to travel to Africa and "clear out the white invaders". He formed an army, equipping them with uniforms and weapons. Garvey appealed to the new militant feelings of black that followed the end of the First World War and asked those African Americans who had been willing to fight for democracy in Europe to now join his army to fight for equal rights.
In 1919 Garvey formed the Black Cross Navigation and Trading Company. With $10,000,000 invested by his supporters Garvey purchased two steamships, Shadyside and Kanawha, to take African Americans to Africa. At a UNIA conference in August, 1920, Garvey was elected provisional president of Africa. He also had talks with the Ku Klux Klan about his plans to repatriate African Americans and published the first volume of Philosophy and Opinions of Marcus Garvey.
After making a couple of journeys to Africa the Black Cross Navigation and Trading Company ran out of money. Garvey was a poor businessman and although he was probably honest himself, several people in his company had been involved in corruption. Garvey was arrested and charged with fraud and in 1925 was sentenced to five years imprisonment. He had served half of his sentence when President Calvin Coolidge commuted the rest of his prison term and had him deported to Jamaica.
In 1928 Garvey went on a lecture tour of Britain, France, Belgium, Switzerland and Canada. On Garvey's return to Jamaica he established the People's Political Party and a new daily newspaper, The Blackman. The following year Garvey was defeated in the general election for a seat in Jamaica's colonial legislature.
In July, 1932, Garvey began publishing the evening newspaper, The New Jamaican. The venture was unsuccessful and the printing presses were seized for debts in 1933. He followed this with a monthly magazine, Black Man. He also launched an organization that he hoped would raise money to help create job opportunities for the rural poor in Jamaica.
The project was not a success and in March, 1935, Garvey moved to England where he published The Tragedy of White Injustice. Marcus Garvey continued to hold UNIA conventions and to tour the world making speeches on civil rights until his death in London on 10th June, 1940.
Re: African American History Month Thread
Homer Plessy
Homer Plessy, activist on the Bayou!
Plessy
*Homer Plessy, a Black businessman and civil rights activist, was born on this date in 1863.
From Louisiana, Plessy was the second child of Adolphe Plessy and Rosa Debergue Plessy. His father died when he was five, and his mother Rosa remarried shortly thereafter. Plessy was apprenticed as a shoemaker, the profession of his stepfather and maternal relatives. In 1887, he married Louise Bordenave at St. Augustine Church. In 1890, then state legislator Murphy Foster, (grandfather of Louisiana Governor Mike Foster), wrote the Separate Car law, which called for the segregation of passenger trains traveling within the state of Louisiana.
In 1892, Homer Plessy challenged a two-year-old streetcar law that separated passengers traveling on trains in Louisiana. His action made him a plaintiff and defendant in the landmark U.S. Supreme Court Case of Plessy vs. Ferguson in 1896. The year he challenged segregation, the Citizens’ Committee, a group of influential African American civic and business leaders, chose Homer Plessy to board the white car of the East Louisiana Railway leaving from New Orleans and traveling to Covington. The Citizens’ Committee’s strategy was to purposely break the Separate Car law in order for a case to go before the state supreme court.
The case eventually made its way to the United States Supreme Court and ruled against Plessy. The Supreme Court upheld the statute of "Separate but Equal" and unfortunately this landmark decision eventually was used to justify segregation in education, public accommodations, and transportation. After the case, Plessy drifted into anonymity, later becoming a life insurance collector with People’s Life Insurance Company. Plessy died on March 1, 1925 and is buried in his mother’s family tomb in St. Louis Cemetery.
Reference:
The African American Desk Reference
Schomburg Center for research in Black Culture
Copyright 1999 The Stonesong Press Inc. and
The New York Public Library, John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Pub.
ISBN 0-471-23924-0
Supreme Court upholds Plessy v Ferguson
http://www.aaregistry.com/african_american_history/1443/Homer_Plessy_activist_on_the_Bayou
Homer Plessy
Homer Plessy, activist on the Bayou!
Plessy
*Homer Plessy, a Black businessman and civil rights activist, was born on this date in 1863.
From Louisiana, Plessy was the second child of Adolphe Plessy and Rosa Debergue Plessy. His father died when he was five, and his mother Rosa remarried shortly thereafter. Plessy was apprenticed as a shoemaker, the profession of his stepfather and maternal relatives. In 1887, he married Louise Bordenave at St. Augustine Church. In 1890, then state legislator Murphy Foster, (grandfather of Louisiana Governor Mike Foster), wrote the Separate Car law, which called for the segregation of passenger trains traveling within the state of Louisiana.
In 1892, Homer Plessy challenged a two-year-old streetcar law that separated passengers traveling on trains in Louisiana. His action made him a plaintiff and defendant in the landmark U.S. Supreme Court Case of Plessy vs. Ferguson in 1896. The year he challenged segregation, the Citizens’ Committee, a group of influential African American civic and business leaders, chose Homer Plessy to board the white car of the East Louisiana Railway leaving from New Orleans and traveling to Covington. The Citizens’ Committee’s strategy was to purposely break the Separate Car law in order for a case to go before the state supreme court.
The case eventually made its way to the United States Supreme Court and ruled against Plessy. The Supreme Court upheld the statute of "Separate but Equal" and unfortunately this landmark decision eventually was used to justify segregation in education, public accommodations, and transportation. After the case, Plessy drifted into anonymity, later becoming a life insurance collector with People’s Life Insurance Company. Plessy died on March 1, 1925 and is buried in his mother’s family tomb in St. Louis Cemetery.
Reference:
The African American Desk Reference
Schomburg Center for research in Black Culture
Copyright 1999 The Stonesong Press Inc. and
The New York Public Library, John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Pub.
ISBN 0-471-23924-0
Supreme Court upholds Plessy v Ferguson
http://www.aaregistry.com/african_american_history/1443/Homer_Plessy_activist_on_the_Bayou
Re: African American History Month Thread
You just wanna argue...EVERY PART of what was referred to as the new world was called AMERICA, the sovereignty of the United States breeds its citizens in such away that everyone refers to us as though there are no other countries. That is why it will be easy to create Oceania, whoops, I mean the American Union...
You just wanna argue...EVERY PART of what was referred to as the new world was called AMERICA, the sovereignty of the United States breeds its citizens in such away that everyone refers to us as though there are no other countries. That is why it will be easy to create Oceania, whoops, I mean the American Union...
Re: African American History Month Thread
October 17 marks the anniversary of the death of nation founder, Dessalines. On that date, almost 200 years ago in 1806, Jean Jacques Dessalines, emperor, father of the Independence would be savagely assassinated. A scant two years before, glorified by the illustrious victories of the Independence, the man was revered as a semi-god, sworn complete obedience, and named governor-for-life. But on that date, he was so hated by all, so despised, so detested that it was seen fit that he died the most horrible and humiliating of deaths. Fearless soldier, formidable general, great strategist, master tactician, visionary, yet ruthless leader, and unforgiving commander, Dessalines remains one of the most revered yet enigmatic characters in Haiti's history.
Even his actual birthplace is a source of controversy. Some sources claimed that he was born in Guinea, West Africa and came to the colony as a young man. However, those sources are so tainted of spite and aversion that their trustworthiness suffer greatly(1). Most trustworthy sources, including Thomas Madiou (2) and Beaubrun Ardouin affirm that he saw light in the North of nowadays-Haiti on a plantation in an area called Cormiers, (today, Cormier), in the hills near the town of Grande Rivière du Nord 25The town of Grande Riviere du Nord, birthplace of Dessalines - Click to enlarge kms from Cap-Haitien. That plantation belonged to a french man named Duclos. The young born was given the first name of Jacques. Hence, he will be called Jacques Duclos, as the practice was that slaves took their master's last name. Of Dessalines' mother or father, no one knows for sure, as slaves did not get birth certificates. The only known parent of his is a certain aunt named Victoria Montou, that he called affectionately Toya. During the war, old Victoria Montou fought against the French in the Cahos mountains of the Artibonite region . She would remain in the house of the emperor until her death, June 12, 1805.
Duclos was an especially cruel master. Slaves on his plantation were treated with the utmost severity. Dessalines was strong, courageous, hard working, but very rebellious. He was severely punished for his frequent lapses and his rebellious nature. Dessalines would bear many physical scars reminding him of those days. But foremost, he would keep a vivid memory of those days.The horrors of servitude will sow in him the seeds of a great hatred and distrust towards his masters and later on an implacable resolve to fight servitude and colonialism.
When Jacques attained the age of 30 or so, he would be sold off on the market. He would be bought by a free black man named Dessalines. That man himself had gotten that name from a french engineer named Des Salines with whom he was attached in the past. Hence Jacques Duclos would become Jean Jacques Dessalines. Dessalines's new master was a carpenter and roof maker. He taught his new pupil that trade and treated him with care. For about three years, Dessalines would stay in the service of that master. He would be well treated and repaid his master with courageous work. He was nevertheless at times "antisocial". Of his character his master said: "Il était bon ouvrier, mais mauvais chien" (He was a good worker but was not docile as a dog). After the Independence, the governor-for-life would take his old master in his house and made the highest rank employee at his personal service.
In 1791, though, he would join the slave revolt that would ultimately lead to independence. He followed the example given by the Boukman, Jean François and Biassou, early band leaders. He became a lieutenant in the Army of Jean François. He followed Jean François when he lent his services to the Royal majesty of Spain (3). There, he met Toussaint Bréda later called Louverture (contraction of L'Ouverture: The Opening) who was climbing the ranks and gaining notoriety for his successive brilliant victories against forces far superior to his. When the French Republic proclaimed freedom for all slaves, Dessalines followed Toussaint who rallied to the French flag in order to fight the armies of the Spanish and British crowns.
Toussaint Louverture- Click for larger imageIn a span of five years, Toussaint would utilize brilliant political savvy to play all forces in the colony against each other and eliminate one by one the enemies of Liberty. He had managed to protect freedom for all in the colony, improved the condition of the masses while restoring prosperity ot the colony. By 1801, Toussaint would become the most powerful man of any color in the colony of St-Domingue. As Toussaint's vigorous right arm, Dessalines gained prominence in earning many victories for him. He distinguished himself by his blind obedience and his efficiency: Troops led by Dessalines were the best organized, had the highest morale and were the bravest in combat. They respected and feared their thundering commander whose orders were blindly excuted. These armies were no longer a band of marroons, not a band of disorganized men with machetes, pitchforks and sticks. Toussaint, Dessalines and many others became quite versed in western military strategy and tactics that they supplemented with cunning, originality breaking the mold of conventional combat and knowledge of the terrain. The troops were about as organized as any of the European armies of the time, with infantries, cavalry, and artillery. What they lacked in flashy uniforms, weaponry and standard warfare methodology, they made up for with courage, ingenuity, and bravery.
At the onset of the Civil War (1799-1800) that would oppose Toussaint, and Andre Rigaud, leader of the mostly mulatto faction calling from the South, Dessalines had risen to the ranks of brigadier general. Dessalines won victory after hard fought victory for Toussaint. He solidified the defenses of the Western Department while at the same taking a heavily fortified Jacmel, Petit Goave, Miragoane and Anse a Veau. For his bravery and distinction, Toussaint made him général de division (Army Corps general), and bestowed upon him the greatest distinctions. In 1801, he was chosen to terminate the insurrection of general Moyse, Toussaint's own nephew (4), in the North. He put down his popular uprising in a matter of a few weeks.
By 1801, Toussaint Louverture's power became ultimate. He named himself governor-for-life, and promulgated a constitution without the approval of France. He elevated his black lieutenents to the highest echelons of the colonial army. He made Dessalines commandant of the western department that included the city of Port-Republicain (now, Port-au-Prince). Toussaint had acccumulated so much power and acted with such despotism that in the end he alienated the sympathies of the colonial population. He had lost the support of the masses since the Moyse Affair, and yet never managed to reassure the French Government of his loyalty. First Consul and future emperor Bonaparte estimated that French control on St.Domingue was slipping away and that Citizen Toussaint had gone too far. He decided to send a formidable expeditionary force to bring Toussaint in line and, as a secret mission, to restore slavery in the colony. The expedition commanded by capitaine-general Victor Emmanuel Leclerc, Bonaparte's own brother-in-law, was 21,000 men strong. Those men were veterans of the greatest victories of the French Republic and were commanded by some of the best generals and admirals in service at the moment. Among those we shall note generals Rochambeau, Boudet, Duga, Hardy, Kerveseau, Desfourneaux, Pamphile de Lacroix, admiral Villaret-Joyeuse, and rear admiral Latouche-Treville. By 1803, total french troops sent at St.Domingue would amount to 55,132 (Thomas Madiou: Histoire D'Haiti Tome III, page 136). Of those troops, less than 1,200 would ever see France again!
The expeditionary force arrived at the colony in late January of the year 1802. At seeing the french troops, many rejoiced that Toussaint would finallly be chastised. Very few understood that in the end, those forces were sent to re-enslave black men and bring color distinction. THe Bulk of the population turned their backs on Toussaint, while most of the colonial army joined the ranks of Leclerc without hardly firing a shot (remember that this was still a French colony, and therefore that the colonial army was before all a French army). Among the ones who fought for Toussaint, Dessalines, as well as Henri Christophe, Maurepas and Lamartiniere. A month after the campaign began, the forces of Toussaint were losing on all fronts even though they were inflicting heavy casualties on Leclerc's Army. Dessalines, having lost Port-au-Prince, was being beaten into retreat northward towards Toussaint in the Artibonite, while Christophe beaten in the North was now back to back with Toussaint near Gonaives. Meanwhile the brave Maurepas was cut off from Toussaint. Toussaint's army in the Artibonite amounted to less than 6,000 men while french forces marching towards Toussaint, Dessalines and Christophe totaled almost 20,000 with far more munitions, and more, better cannons.
The landmark battle of this campaign took place near the town of Petite-Riviere De L'Artibonite, around a fort called La Crete-a-Pierrot. La Crete a Pierrot, today - Click to enlargeThat was one of the fiercest battles ever fought by forces anywhere on Earth in this early part of the 19th Century. Barricaded inside the small fort, 1,300 men commanded by Dessalines, Lamartiniere and Magny resisted assault after assault from 16,000 of the best of Europe aided by 2,000 of the colonial army. Dessalines was as revered by his soldiers as he was feared. One morning, he noticed some men nonchalantly grouped around a cannon. He asked Magny: "what are those men doing over there?" Magny responded "That's a cannon, general sir, that we are moving to this opening overlooking the town". "Such slowness! It will be noon and those men would not be finished" With that, he started showing some impatience and reached for his cane. In no time, as if by magic, the piece had reached its destination.
He had earned those men's respect not just because he was a hard commander, but because he fought with more bravery and fearlessness than any. Just as much, he always found ways to infuse dynamism and enthusiasm in his troops. The morning of the first assault, Dessalines was seated pensively on a stack of cannon balls, looking at column after endless column of french bluejackets being deployed in the plain down below. All of a sudden, he awoke from his meditation and took hold of a lit torch. He pointed it towards an open powder keg and said in Creole: "I only want to keep with me the bravest; all those willing to return to slavery can leave the fort now, while those who want to die as free men gather around me" In Unison, all acclaim "We would all die for Liberty" At those words he said "I will blow you all up if the french enter this compound". In such manner, Dessalines would get beyond the maximum out of his troops. Every assault was sent back with huge losses. In one ferocious assault, the fierce French soldiers would finally make it into the fortification and attacked with the dreaded bayonets. In the bloody exchange, Dessalines, very recognizable in the thick of it all was the target of many blows of the french grenadiers. But as a fearless tiger, he hacked left and right with his sword, oblivious to his wounds while the attack was reppelled one last time. The french had lost almost 2,000 in that battle, Dessalines 400.
Leclerc, tired of seeing the best of his troops being wasted in futile assaults resorted to bombarding the emplacement. Days of bombardment would silence the cannons of the fort which ran out of munitions and food. Bravely, they returned fire loading their rifles with small stones, and whatever else they could find. Before long the fortification no longer provided cover, and the cannon shots were harvesting the bravest of them. The garrison, now only 600 strong ultimately was ordered to abandon the fort (5). Lamartiniere observed the French army positions and resolved to try to force an opening in an area 3,000 troops occupied. Armed with their bayonets they carved themselves a hole out of the siege. The maneuver cost them half their companions, however, they managed the feat of making it through and what is more, they even turned back to repell their pursuants with heavy losses.
La Crête a Pierrot made legends out of many men. However, it just about sealed the fate of Toussaint. With the rest of his army, he was flying to the rescue of the besieged. Alas, he arrived too late. It is now three months into the campaign. That was one of the most savage wars. Since the beginning Toussaint's orders were to execute prisoners. In order to terrrorize his adversaries and show their determination, Dessalines also massacred many whites in the cities he was going through, while houses, whole cities were burnt to the ground. His famous motto was "Koupe Têt, Boule Kay" (kill and burn everything). Leclerc in the early part of the campaign found it more productive in trying to convince elements of the colonial army to join him against Toussaint. But as the losses mounted on his side and especially after La Crete a Pierrot, he too ordered for prisoners and wounded to be executed.
Time was running out for the governor-for-life though. Now, his only hope is to drag the fight long enough and make it to the rainy season. He was hoping that by then, the tropical climate would have taken a toll on the Europeans and that the flood waters would help even out the field. Also, by then, he was hoping to turn the conflict into a national war by convincing all sectors that Leclerc was there to bring back slavery and restore cast distinctions. Leclerc too wanted to stop the fight. Each victory cost him too much of his forces, and he did not want to fight troops who in their desperation were ready to everything. His losses were approaching 5,000 men, while hundreds of millions of francs of colonial wealth were lost. Leclerc had already sent messengers to him to negotiate a cease-fire. Toussaint at first refused. However when Chistophe surprisingly surrendered, it left his northern flank exposed and precipitated the end. Toussaint decided to end the war. Dessalines energically and at length pleaded with him to keep the fight going, but in the end, the governor's decision would win. His plan was to take a break and then wait til the rains to re-open hostilities. Dessalines on the other was convinced that peace with the whites was no longer possible.
Leclerc offered Toussaint an honorable cease-fire. Toussaint would simply retire to his plantations in the region of Ennery in the Artibonite, while the rest of his army would be integrated into the expeditionary army to form one. Before agreeing Toussaint managed to win a diplomatic victory. He obtained from Leclerc that all the ranks he had given to his officers would be preserved, including Dessalines as General de Division (Army Corps General). Leclerc was reluctant, especially since Dessalines was the one the population considered as the most implacable enemy of whites. He resisted, but finally accepted. Before reporting to St-Marc, Dessalines and Toussaint spoke one last time, and saluted each other with much emotion. That was the last time they would see each other. It was May 1st, 1802.
Toussaint was finished though. But many feared his presence in the colony. All the former officers who had surrendered feared that if he returned to power, he would punish them. The men of color saw in him the ruthless governor of the Civil War. The masses saw in him a tyrant. The whites, Leclerc saw in him, the constant danger of his influence, and the constant threat that he would try to rekindle the conflict. He was constantly watched, his correspondance, opened and examined, his views tested. Dessalines knew that Toussaint was finished. He had always been loyal to Toussaint, but now, he felt that the road to Independence would not run through Toussaint. His loyalty will be tested and his ambition would grow. He was the highest ranked of his peers. Leclerc would resolve to have Toussaint deported, but he also wanted to test Dessalines allegiances.
Jean-Jacques Dessalines: 1758-1806
October 17 marks the anniversary of the death of nation founder, Dessalines. On that date, almost 200 years ago in 1806, Jean Jacques Dessalines, emperor, father of the Independence would be savagely assassinated. A scant two years before, glorified by the illustrious victories of the Independence, the man was revered as a semi-god, sworn complete obedience, and named governor-for-life. But on that date, he was so hated by all, so despised, so detested that it was seen fit that he died the most horrible and humiliating of deaths. Fearless soldier, formidable general, great strategist, master tactician, visionary, yet ruthless leader, and unforgiving commander, Dessalines remains one of the most revered yet enigmatic characters in Haiti's history.
Even his actual birthplace is a source of controversy. Some sources claimed that he was born in Guinea, West Africa and came to the colony as a young man. However, those sources are so tainted of spite and aversion that their trustworthiness suffer greatly(1). Most trustworthy sources, including Thomas Madiou (2) and Beaubrun Ardouin affirm that he saw light in the North of nowadays-Haiti on a plantation in an area called Cormiers, (today, Cormier), in the hills near the town of Grande Rivière du Nord 25The town of Grande Riviere du Nord, birthplace of Dessalines - Click to enlarge kms from Cap-Haitien. That plantation belonged to a french man named Duclos. The young born was given the first name of Jacques. Hence, he will be called Jacques Duclos, as the practice was that slaves took their master's last name. Of Dessalines' mother or father, no one knows for sure, as slaves did not get birth certificates. The only known parent of his is a certain aunt named Victoria Montou, that he called affectionately Toya. During the war, old Victoria Montou fought against the French in the Cahos mountains of the Artibonite region . She would remain in the house of the emperor until her death, June 12, 1805.
Duclos was an especially cruel master. Slaves on his plantation were treated with the utmost severity. Dessalines was strong, courageous, hard working, but very rebellious. He was severely punished for his frequent lapses and his rebellious nature. Dessalines would bear many physical scars reminding him of those days. But foremost, he would keep a vivid memory of those days.The horrors of servitude will sow in him the seeds of a great hatred and distrust towards his masters and later on an implacable resolve to fight servitude and colonialism.
When Jacques attained the age of 30 or so, he would be sold off on the market. He would be bought by a free black man named Dessalines. That man himself had gotten that name from a french engineer named Des Salines with whom he was attached in the past. Hence Jacques Duclos would become Jean Jacques Dessalines. Dessalines's new master was a carpenter and roof maker. He taught his new pupil that trade and treated him with care. For about three years, Dessalines would stay in the service of that master. He would be well treated and repaid his master with courageous work. He was nevertheless at times "antisocial". Of his character his master said: "Il était bon ouvrier, mais mauvais chien" (He was a good worker but was not docile as a dog). After the Independence, the governor-for-life would take his old master in his house and made the highest rank employee at his personal service.
In 1791, though, he would join the slave revolt that would ultimately lead to independence. He followed the example given by the Boukman, Jean François and Biassou, early band leaders. He became a lieutenant in the Army of Jean François. He followed Jean François when he lent his services to the Royal majesty of Spain (3). There, he met Toussaint Bréda later called Louverture (contraction of L'Ouverture: The Opening) who was climbing the ranks and gaining notoriety for his successive brilliant victories against forces far superior to his. When the French Republic proclaimed freedom for all slaves, Dessalines followed Toussaint who rallied to the French flag in order to fight the armies of the Spanish and British crowns.
Toussaint Louverture- Click for larger imageIn a span of five years, Toussaint would utilize brilliant political savvy to play all forces in the colony against each other and eliminate one by one the enemies of Liberty. He had managed to protect freedom for all in the colony, improved the condition of the masses while restoring prosperity ot the colony. By 1801, Toussaint would become the most powerful man of any color in the colony of St-Domingue. As Toussaint's vigorous right arm, Dessalines gained prominence in earning many victories for him. He distinguished himself by his blind obedience and his efficiency: Troops led by Dessalines were the best organized, had the highest morale and were the bravest in combat. They respected and feared their thundering commander whose orders were blindly excuted. These armies were no longer a band of marroons, not a band of disorganized men with machetes, pitchforks and sticks. Toussaint, Dessalines and many others became quite versed in western military strategy and tactics that they supplemented with cunning, originality breaking the mold of conventional combat and knowledge of the terrain. The troops were about as organized as any of the European armies of the time, with infantries, cavalry, and artillery. What they lacked in flashy uniforms, weaponry and standard warfare methodology, they made up for with courage, ingenuity, and bravery.
At the onset of the Civil War (1799-1800) that would oppose Toussaint, and Andre Rigaud, leader of the mostly mulatto faction calling from the South, Dessalines had risen to the ranks of brigadier general. Dessalines won victory after hard fought victory for Toussaint. He solidified the defenses of the Western Department while at the same taking a heavily fortified Jacmel, Petit Goave, Miragoane and Anse a Veau. For his bravery and distinction, Toussaint made him général de division (Army Corps general), and bestowed upon him the greatest distinctions. In 1801, he was chosen to terminate the insurrection of general Moyse, Toussaint's own nephew (4), in the North. He put down his popular uprising in a matter of a few weeks.
By 1801, Toussaint Louverture's power became ultimate. He named himself governor-for-life, and promulgated a constitution without the approval of France. He elevated his black lieutenents to the highest echelons of the colonial army. He made Dessalines commandant of the western department that included the city of Port-Republicain (now, Port-au-Prince). Toussaint had acccumulated so much power and acted with such despotism that in the end he alienated the sympathies of the colonial population. He had lost the support of the masses since the Moyse Affair, and yet never managed to reassure the French Government of his loyalty. First Consul and future emperor Bonaparte estimated that French control on St.Domingue was slipping away and that Citizen Toussaint had gone too far. He decided to send a formidable expeditionary force to bring Toussaint in line and, as a secret mission, to restore slavery in the colony. The expedition commanded by capitaine-general Victor Emmanuel Leclerc, Bonaparte's own brother-in-law, was 21,000 men strong. Those men were veterans of the greatest victories of the French Republic and were commanded by some of the best generals and admirals in service at the moment. Among those we shall note generals Rochambeau, Boudet, Duga, Hardy, Kerveseau, Desfourneaux, Pamphile de Lacroix, admiral Villaret-Joyeuse, and rear admiral Latouche-Treville. By 1803, total french troops sent at St.Domingue would amount to 55,132 (Thomas Madiou: Histoire D'Haiti Tome III, page 136). Of those troops, less than 1,200 would ever see France again!
The expeditionary force arrived at the colony in late January of the year 1802. At seeing the french troops, many rejoiced that Toussaint would finallly be chastised. Very few understood that in the end, those forces were sent to re-enslave black men and bring color distinction. THe Bulk of the population turned their backs on Toussaint, while most of the colonial army joined the ranks of Leclerc without hardly firing a shot (remember that this was still a French colony, and therefore that the colonial army was before all a French army). Among the ones who fought for Toussaint, Dessalines, as well as Henri Christophe, Maurepas and Lamartiniere. A month after the campaign began, the forces of Toussaint were losing on all fronts even though they were inflicting heavy casualties on Leclerc's Army. Dessalines, having lost Port-au-Prince, was being beaten into retreat northward towards Toussaint in the Artibonite, while Christophe beaten in the North was now back to back with Toussaint near Gonaives. Meanwhile the brave Maurepas was cut off from Toussaint. Toussaint's army in the Artibonite amounted to less than 6,000 men while french forces marching towards Toussaint, Dessalines and Christophe totaled almost 20,000 with far more munitions, and more, better cannons.
The landmark battle of this campaign took place near the town of Petite-Riviere De L'Artibonite, around a fort called La Crete-a-Pierrot. La Crete a Pierrot, today - Click to enlargeThat was one of the fiercest battles ever fought by forces anywhere on Earth in this early part of the 19th Century. Barricaded inside the small fort, 1,300 men commanded by Dessalines, Lamartiniere and Magny resisted assault after assault from 16,000 of the best of Europe aided by 2,000 of the colonial army. Dessalines was as revered by his soldiers as he was feared. One morning, he noticed some men nonchalantly grouped around a cannon. He asked Magny: "what are those men doing over there?" Magny responded "That's a cannon, general sir, that we are moving to this opening overlooking the town". "Such slowness! It will be noon and those men would not be finished" With that, he started showing some impatience and reached for his cane. In no time, as if by magic, the piece had reached its destination.
He had earned those men's respect not just because he was a hard commander, but because he fought with more bravery and fearlessness than any. Just as much, he always found ways to infuse dynamism and enthusiasm in his troops. The morning of the first assault, Dessalines was seated pensively on a stack of cannon balls, looking at column after endless column of french bluejackets being deployed in the plain down below. All of a sudden, he awoke from his meditation and took hold of a lit torch. He pointed it towards an open powder keg and said in Creole: "I only want to keep with me the bravest; all those willing to return to slavery can leave the fort now, while those who want to die as free men gather around me" In Unison, all acclaim "We would all die for Liberty" At those words he said "I will blow you all up if the french enter this compound". In such manner, Dessalines would get beyond the maximum out of his troops. Every assault was sent back with huge losses. In one ferocious assault, the fierce French soldiers would finally make it into the fortification and attacked with the dreaded bayonets. In the bloody exchange, Dessalines, very recognizable in the thick of it all was the target of many blows of the french grenadiers. But as a fearless tiger, he hacked left and right with his sword, oblivious to his wounds while the attack was reppelled one last time. The french had lost almost 2,000 in that battle, Dessalines 400.
Leclerc, tired of seeing the best of his troops being wasted in futile assaults resorted to bombarding the emplacement. Days of bombardment would silence the cannons of the fort which ran out of munitions and food. Bravely, they returned fire loading their rifles with small stones, and whatever else they could find. Before long the fortification no longer provided cover, and the cannon shots were harvesting the bravest of them. The garrison, now only 600 strong ultimately was ordered to abandon the fort (5). Lamartiniere observed the French army positions and resolved to try to force an opening in an area 3,000 troops occupied. Armed with their bayonets they carved themselves a hole out of the siege. The maneuver cost them half their companions, however, they managed the feat of making it through and what is more, they even turned back to repell their pursuants with heavy losses.
La Crête a Pierrot made legends out of many men. However, it just about sealed the fate of Toussaint. With the rest of his army, he was flying to the rescue of the besieged. Alas, he arrived too late. It is now three months into the campaign. That was one of the most savage wars. Since the beginning Toussaint's orders were to execute prisoners. In order to terrrorize his adversaries and show their determination, Dessalines also massacred many whites in the cities he was going through, while houses, whole cities were burnt to the ground. His famous motto was "Koupe Têt, Boule Kay" (kill and burn everything). Leclerc in the early part of the campaign found it more productive in trying to convince elements of the colonial army to join him against Toussaint. But as the losses mounted on his side and especially after La Crete a Pierrot, he too ordered for prisoners and wounded to be executed.
Time was running out for the governor-for-life though. Now, his only hope is to drag the fight long enough and make it to the rainy season. He was hoping that by then, the tropical climate would have taken a toll on the Europeans and that the flood waters would help even out the field. Also, by then, he was hoping to turn the conflict into a national war by convincing all sectors that Leclerc was there to bring back slavery and restore cast distinctions. Leclerc too wanted to stop the fight. Each victory cost him too much of his forces, and he did not want to fight troops who in their desperation were ready to everything. His losses were approaching 5,000 men, while hundreds of millions of francs of colonial wealth were lost. Leclerc had already sent messengers to him to negotiate a cease-fire. Toussaint at first refused. However when Chistophe surprisingly surrendered, it left his northern flank exposed and precipitated the end. Toussaint decided to end the war. Dessalines energically and at length pleaded with him to keep the fight going, but in the end, the governor's decision would win. His plan was to take a break and then wait til the rains to re-open hostilities. Dessalines on the other was convinced that peace with the whites was no longer possible.
Leclerc offered Toussaint an honorable cease-fire. Toussaint would simply retire to his plantations in the region of Ennery in the Artibonite, while the rest of his army would be integrated into the expeditionary army to form one. Before agreeing Toussaint managed to win a diplomatic victory. He obtained from Leclerc that all the ranks he had given to his officers would be preserved, including Dessalines as General de Division (Army Corps General). Leclerc was reluctant, especially since Dessalines was the one the population considered as the most implacable enemy of whites. He resisted, but finally accepted. Before reporting to St-Marc, Dessalines and Toussaint spoke one last time, and saluted each other with much emotion. That was the last time they would see each other. It was May 1st, 1802.
Toussaint was finished though. But many feared his presence in the colony. All the former officers who had surrendered feared that if he returned to power, he would punish them. The men of color saw in him the ruthless governor of the Civil War. The masses saw in him a tyrant. The whites, Leclerc saw in him, the constant danger of his influence, and the constant threat that he would try to rekindle the conflict. He was constantly watched, his correspondance, opened and examined, his views tested. Dessalines knew that Toussaint was finished. He had always been loyal to Toussaint, but now, he felt that the road to Independence would not run through Toussaint. His loyalty will be tested and his ambition would grow. He was the highest ranked of his peers. Leclerc would resolve to have Toussaint deported, but he also wanted to test Dessalines allegiances.
Re: African American History Month Thread
A lil something for the Bajan massive :
Bussa, (also recorded as Bussa, or Busso or Bussoe) was born in Africa but captured and brought to Barbados to work as a slave on Bayleys Plantation in the southern parish of St Philip. (Today, the plantation's 'Great House' is still standing and become the residence and recording studio of international musician Eddy Grant) His birth date remains unknown, however it is thought that he arrived in Barbados as an adult.
On the plantation Bussa worked as a domestic slave, a head-ranger at Bayleys and did not experience the intense hardships that the field slaves endured. Domestic slaves generally considered themselves above the field slaves and some even exposed plans of slave rebellions to their ‘masters’ in order to gain favour. Bussa however, despite his ‘privileged’ position, helped to plan for months in advance.
The slaves rebellions were born out of a strong desire to overthrow the oppressive white plantocracy and claim their freedom. It is said that plans for the rebellion began after the House of Assembly's rejection of the Imperial Registry Bill in November 1815.
On the night of Good Friday, April 12, 1816, the final preparations were made for the rebellion. At this meeting, it was decided that a mulatto slave Washington Francklyn was intended to become the Governor of the island. On the night of Good Friday, April 12, 1816, the final preparations were made for the rebellion. At this special meeting, it was decided that a mulatto slave Washington Francklyn was supposed to become the Governor of the island.
On the morning of Sunday April 14, 1816 Bussa led around 400 slaves Several cane fields were set afire and from Bayley's Plantation in St Philip the insurrection quickly spread to Christ Church, St George, St Thomas, St Lucy and St Thomas.
The white plantation owners were totally caught off guard. The slaves fought valiantly against the troops of the First West India regiment and it was reported The rebellion spread from plantation to plantation until about half of the island was caught up in the insurrection. It took four days for the authorities to regain control. Bussa was killed in battle, and the ringleaders were executed.
Although the rebellion ultimately failed, it was never forgotten. In 1985 more than a century later, the Emancipation Statue was erected at the roundabout in Haggatt Hall, St Michael. In 1999, Bussa was named as one of the national heroes of Barbados. and there is also a national holiday “Emancipation Day”, which celebrates the emancipation of the slaves.
A lil something for the Bajan massive :
Bussa, (also recorded as Bussa, or Busso or Bussoe) was born in Africa but captured and brought to Barbados to work as a slave on Bayleys Plantation in the southern parish of St Philip. (Today, the plantation's 'Great House' is still standing and become the residence and recording studio of international musician Eddy Grant) His birth date remains unknown, however it is thought that he arrived in Barbados as an adult.
On the plantation Bussa worked as a domestic slave, a head-ranger at Bayleys and did not experience the intense hardships that the field slaves endured. Domestic slaves generally considered themselves above the field slaves and some even exposed plans of slave rebellions to their ‘masters’ in order to gain favour. Bussa however, despite his ‘privileged’ position, helped to plan for months in advance.
The slaves rebellions were born out of a strong desire to overthrow the oppressive white plantocracy and claim their freedom. It is said that plans for the rebellion began after the House of Assembly's rejection of the Imperial Registry Bill in November 1815.
On the night of Good Friday, April 12, 1816, the final preparations were made for the rebellion. At this meeting, it was decided that a mulatto slave Washington Francklyn was intended to become the Governor of the island. On the night of Good Friday, April 12, 1816, the final preparations were made for the rebellion. At this special meeting, it was decided that a mulatto slave Washington Francklyn was supposed to become the Governor of the island.
On the morning of Sunday April 14, 1816 Bussa led around 400 slaves Several cane fields were set afire and from Bayley's Plantation in St Philip the insurrection quickly spread to Christ Church, St George, St Thomas, St Lucy and St Thomas.
The white plantation owners were totally caught off guard. The slaves fought valiantly against the troops of the First West India regiment and it was reported The rebellion spread from plantation to plantation until about half of the island was caught up in the insurrection. It took four days for the authorities to regain control. Bussa was killed in battle, and the ringleaders were executed.
Although the rebellion ultimately failed, it was never forgotten. In 1985 more than a century later, the Emancipation Statue was erected at the roundabout in Haggatt Hall, St Michael. In 1999, Bussa was named as one of the national heroes of Barbados. and there is also a national holiday “Emancipation Day”, which celebrates the emancipation of the slaves.
Re: African American History Month Thread
Sold to slave-traders, Equiano was transported to Barbados. After a two-week stay in the West Indies Equiano was taken to the English colony of Virginia. He was later purchased by Captain Henry Pascal, a British naval officer, and served in the seven-year war with France.
He was renamed Gustavus Vassa, and was beaten until he answered to his new name. Pascal took him to London, and he stayed with two relatives of his master, two women who helped him to read and write. He was sold at Deptford without warning to a Captain James Doran, who took him to the island of Montserrat, and sold him to a merchant called Robert King. Equiano saved whatever money he could, and in 1766 purchased his freedom for £40. £40 was a more than the average labourer’s yearly pay at the time. In 1767 he return to London, and found work as a hairdresser in Coventry Court, Haymarket. The following year Dr. Charles Irving, who was well known for his successful experiments in making fresh water from seawater, employed him at Pall-Mall.
Equiano reported the Zong disaster to Granville Sharp, asking Sharp to seek justice for the 133 slaves who were thrown overboard by Slave traders. The traders later claimed insurance for the dead Slaves. Sharp took the trader to court, but was unable to gain justice for the Slaves. It was this case that raised Equiano awareness that he ought to work for the abolition of the Slave Trade. But, there were many obstacles. The trade laws had to be abolished. It was in the 1780s that brought matters to a head. Other individuals also dedicated their time and energies to abolition. Among them were Ottobah Cugoano, Granville Sharp, William Wilberforce, Thomas Clarkson, and many. Equiano formed a group called The Sons of Africa, and they lobbied Members of Parliament: MPs and Lords.
In 1787, Equiano was appointed Commissary for a project to settle former black slaves in Sierra Leone. He was later sacked because he was outspoken against corruption among some of the white people who were involved. During that year Equiano helped one of the Sons of Africa, Ottobah Cugoano to edit and publish a book published a book, Thoughts and Sentiments on the Evil of Slavery. Cugoano was the first African to put in writing a formal and bold attack on the Slavery, and Equiano was the co-laborator.
The following year Equiano (1789) published his autobiography The Interesting Narrative, the most important single literary contribution to the campaign for the abolition of Slavery. It was highly effective in arousing public opinion, assisting William Wilberforce’s campaign within the House of Commons. In 1791 the Reverend John Wesley, after reading the book, urged Wilberforce to do his best to bring about abolition. Equiano travelled throughout Britain promoting the book and lobbying for abolition. It became a bestseller and was also published in Germany (1790), New York (1791) and Holland (1791). He also visited Ireland where he made several speeches on the evils of the Slave Trade. In Equiano's lifetime, his Narrative went through nine British editions; many other editions followed after his death in 1797.
A part of the book's great popularity can be attributed to the timing of its initial publication at the height of the movement in Britain to abolish the Slave Trade. Equiano's was the only account by a former Slave, of slavery in Africa, on the Middle Passage, as well as in the West Indies, North America, the Mediterranean, Holland, Russia, Germany, Italy, Portugal and Britain. His first reviewers quickly acknowledged the significance of the Narrative, which also greatly influenced the development of the nineteenth-century African-American slave narrative.
Equiano married Susannah Cullen on 7 April 1792 at St Andrews Church, Soham, Cambridgeshire, and they had two children. Anne Marie, aged four, died in July 1797, and Joanna at aged 21 was left property and £950 cash (about £100,000 in today currency) in his Will. In spite of the popularity and power of The Inrteresting Narrative, and the cause it promoted, Equiano did not live to see the abolition of the transatlantic Slave Trade, which was not legislated until 1807, ten years after his death in March 1797.
Olaudah Equiano
In his book, The Interesting narrative, Equiano said he was born in an Igbo village in the kingdom of Benin around 1745. When he was about eleven, he was kidnapped along with his sister, and after six months of captivity he was brought to the West African coast. Sold to slave-traders, Equiano was transported to Barbados. After a two-week stay in the West Indies Equiano was taken to the English colony of Virginia. He was later purchased by Captain Henry Pascal, a British naval officer, and served in the seven-year war with France.
He was renamed Gustavus Vassa, and was beaten until he answered to his new name. Pascal took him to London, and he stayed with two relatives of his master, two women who helped him to read and write. He was sold at Deptford without warning to a Captain James Doran, who took him to the island of Montserrat, and sold him to a merchant called Robert King. Equiano saved whatever money he could, and in 1766 purchased his freedom for £40. £40 was a more than the average labourer’s yearly pay at the time. In 1767 he return to London, and found work as a hairdresser in Coventry Court, Haymarket. The following year Dr. Charles Irving, who was well known for his successful experiments in making fresh water from seawater, employed him at Pall-Mall.
Equiano reported the Zong disaster to Granville Sharp, asking Sharp to seek justice for the 133 slaves who were thrown overboard by Slave traders. The traders later claimed insurance for the dead Slaves. Sharp took the trader to court, but was unable to gain justice for the Slaves. It was this case that raised Equiano awareness that he ought to work for the abolition of the Slave Trade. But, there were many obstacles. The trade laws had to be abolished. It was in the 1780s that brought matters to a head. Other individuals also dedicated their time and energies to abolition. Among them were Ottobah Cugoano, Granville Sharp, William Wilberforce, Thomas Clarkson, and many. Equiano formed a group called The Sons of Africa, and they lobbied Members of Parliament: MPs and Lords.
In 1787, Equiano was appointed Commissary for a project to settle former black slaves in Sierra Leone. He was later sacked because he was outspoken against corruption among some of the white people who were involved. During that year Equiano helped one of the Sons of Africa, Ottobah Cugoano to edit and publish a book published a book, Thoughts and Sentiments on the Evil of Slavery. Cugoano was the first African to put in writing a formal and bold attack on the Slavery, and Equiano was the co-laborator.
The following year Equiano (1789) published his autobiography The Interesting Narrative, the most important single literary contribution to the campaign for the abolition of Slavery. It was highly effective in arousing public opinion, assisting William Wilberforce’s campaign within the House of Commons. In 1791 the Reverend John Wesley, after reading the book, urged Wilberforce to do his best to bring about abolition. Equiano travelled throughout Britain promoting the book and lobbying for abolition. It became a bestseller and was also published in Germany (1790), New York (1791) and Holland (1791). He also visited Ireland where he made several speeches on the evils of the Slave Trade. In Equiano's lifetime, his Narrative went through nine British editions; many other editions followed after his death in 1797.
A part of the book's great popularity can be attributed to the timing of its initial publication at the height of the movement in Britain to abolish the Slave Trade. Equiano's was the only account by a former Slave, of slavery in Africa, on the Middle Passage, as well as in the West Indies, North America, the Mediterranean, Holland, Russia, Germany, Italy, Portugal and Britain. His first reviewers quickly acknowledged the significance of the Narrative, which also greatly influenced the development of the nineteenth-century African-American slave narrative.
Equiano married Susannah Cullen on 7 April 1792 at St Andrews Church, Soham, Cambridgeshire, and they had two children. Anne Marie, aged four, died in July 1797, and Joanna at aged 21 was left property and £950 cash (about £100,000 in today currency) in his Will. In spite of the popularity and power of The Inrteresting Narrative, and the cause it promoted, Equiano did not live to see the abolition of the transatlantic Slave Trade, which was not legislated until 1807, ten years after his death in March 1797.
Re: African American History Month Thread
Queen Nanny born in Africa to the Ashanti tribe, was brought to Jamaica as a slave. ( there are references to her coming as a free African dignitary). There were already slave rebellions taking place in Jamaica, rebellion and Maroon villages were growing. Soon after arriving in Jamaica, Nanny and her five brothers escaped from slavery. Her brothers Cudjoe, (also a famous Maroon leader) Accompong, Johnny, Cuffy and Quao, became leaders of the Maroons, which included free Africans, escaped slaves.
By 1720 Nanny had taken full control of the Blue Mountain Rebel Town. It was renamed Nanny Town. There Nanny, and her people had cleared land for food cultivation. She was said to have had an excellent knowledge of herbs, as well as being a nurse and a spiritual leader.
From 1728 to 1734, Nanny Town was defended against British attack. The Maroons were better equipped and more knowledgeable of the mountainous terrain than the British. In 1734 a party of Nanny’s Maroons were sent to join those in the west of the island. Three hundred men, women and children set out on one of the longest marches in Jamaican history. This march, known as the “great trek” from Portland to St. James, and it is believed that they were to join Cudjoe’s warriors. Some say it is because Cudjoes wanted peace with the British, whilst Nanny wanted to unite the Maroons.
The slave rebellions that followed were inspired by Nanny and other freedom fighters. These rebellions made the British Government abolish slavery. Queen Nanny is known to the Maroons of today as “Granny Nanny”. Today the Maroons of Moore Town have kept their history through songs and word of mouth. Nanny is regarded as a Priestess and Queen Mother by the Maroons.
After Queen Nanny's death the Windward Maroons were led by her successor 'Quao' who had experience in resisting the British. It was in 1739 that Quao signed a treaty with the British, whereby land was ceded to the Windward Maroons, and they were allowed independence.
The government of Jamaica declared Queen Nanny a National Heroine in 1975 and a Memorial was erected. Her portrait is on the 500 Jamaican dollar bill.
Queen Nanny
Queen Mother Nanny, the great 18th century leader of the Windward or Eastern Jamaican Maroons. She is famous for her heroic struggle against the British colonial empire and its institution of slavery in Jamaica. There are numerous legends and superstitions attributed to this great rebel leader.Queen Nanny born in Africa to the Ashanti tribe, was brought to Jamaica as a slave. ( there are references to her coming as a free African dignitary). There were already slave rebellions taking place in Jamaica, rebellion and Maroon villages were growing. Soon after arriving in Jamaica, Nanny and her five brothers escaped from slavery. Her brothers Cudjoe, (also a famous Maroon leader) Accompong, Johnny, Cuffy and Quao, became leaders of the Maroons, which included free Africans, escaped slaves.
By 1720 Nanny had taken full control of the Blue Mountain Rebel Town. It was renamed Nanny Town. There Nanny, and her people had cleared land for food cultivation. She was said to have had an excellent knowledge of herbs, as well as being a nurse and a spiritual leader.
From 1728 to 1734, Nanny Town was defended against British attack. The Maroons were better equipped and more knowledgeable of the mountainous terrain than the British. In 1734 a party of Nanny’s Maroons were sent to join those in the west of the island. Three hundred men, women and children set out on one of the longest marches in Jamaican history. This march, known as the “great trek” from Portland to St. James, and it is believed that they were to join Cudjoe’s warriors. Some say it is because Cudjoes wanted peace with the British, whilst Nanny wanted to unite the Maroons.
The slave rebellions that followed were inspired by Nanny and other freedom fighters. These rebellions made the British Government abolish slavery. Queen Nanny is known to the Maroons of today as “Granny Nanny”. Today the Maroons of Moore Town have kept their history through songs and word of mouth. Nanny is regarded as a Priestess and Queen Mother by the Maroons.
After Queen Nanny's death the Windward Maroons were led by her successor 'Quao' who had experience in resisting the British. It was in 1739 that Quao signed a treaty with the British, whereby land was ceded to the Windward Maroons, and they were allowed independence.
The government of Jamaica declared Queen Nanny a National Heroine in 1975 and a Memorial was erected. Her portrait is on the 500 Jamaican dollar bill.
Re: African American History Month Thread
See, you want me shoot nut on your ass...
Carter G. Woodson didn't start our history off as a month, but it got expanded, it was established for educational purposes. I don't limit myself, but if the tool is there then manipulate it. I'm not going to continue to argue geography and semantics when you know damn well what I am talking about. If I go to Philadelphia, I'm not going to just listen to the rich history of their subculture, I will also introduce the heroes of my city as well...
First of all "America" comes from an evil racist crackas name. Amerigo Vespucci. The Americas is different from America. We do NOT associate ourselves with America nor the Americas. You want to argue not me
See, you want me shoot nut on your ass...
Carter G. Woodson didn't start our history off as a month, but it got expanded, it was established for educational purposes. I don't limit myself, but if the tool is there then manipulate it. I'm not going to continue to argue geography and semantics when you know damn well what I am talking about. If I go to Philadelphia, I'm not going to just listen to the rich history of their subculture, I will also introduce the heroes of my city as well...
Re: African American History Month Thread
Sylvester Williams, was born in Arouca, Trinidad, in 1869. He lived with his father was a wheelwright who had come from Barbados, mother and four brothers and sisters. He excelled in his studies and went on to qualify as a school teacher in 1886, whilst still a teenager. His interest in politics had started, and in January 1890 was involved in the formation of the Trinidad Elementary Teachers Union.
He moved to New York in 1891, where he undertook several menial jobs including a shoe shiner. He went onto study law at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia, however he left before graduating. By 1896 he was on his way to England where it is thought he studied at King's College.
During 1897 he enrolled as a student of Gray's Inn to read for the bar, passing a preliminary examination in Latin, English and History.(check) To earn a living Williams started lecturing and travelling the country for the Church of England Temperance Society, and the National Thrift Society.
That same year Williams established the African Association. He was establishing himself as a leading figure in the black movement, having meetings with academics, politicians, and other figures including Booker T. Washington. He corresponded with editors of newspapers and journals regarding Pan-African issues. It was these activities which led to him forming the Pan-African Conference a few years later.
During his time in London Williams fell in love with a white Englishwoman, Agnes Powell. She was a member of the Temperance Society, and her father was Captain Francis Powell, who strongly objected to their union and refused to give his consent to marry. She ignored her father’s objections, and went on to marry Williams in 1898, they went on to have five children.
By 1900, he had successfully organised the first Pan-African Conference held at the Westminster Town Hall. It was a three-day conference, with 37 delegates including Samuel Coleridge Taylor, John Alcindor, Dadabhai Naoroji, John Archer and W.E.B Du Bois.
After the initial success of the conference, Williams left England in 1901, to set up new branches of the Pan-African Congress. He travelled to the United States, Jamaica and Trinidad. Pan-African Congress were still small in number, with an estimated 50 working members, in addition to around 150 white supporters.
Back in London he finished his exams and was called to the bar in June 1902, making him the first barrister of African descent to practise in Britain. The following year he travelled to South Africa where he practised law from 1903 to 1905, defending black cases. He also spent time in Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone.
Back in London again in 1906, Williams joined the Fabian Society, and became involved in local politics and was elected to public office with a seat on the Marylebone Borough Council. He remained in England for a further two years, before returning to Trinidad in 1908.
He returned to Trinidad in 1908 where he set up a successful legal practice in Port of Spain, where he worked until he died on 26th March, 1911.
Henry Sylvester Williams
Sylvester Williams, Trinidadian Pan-Africanist and lawyer was the first to organise an association and conferences looking at pan African issues. He inspired W.E.B De Bois who is now considered the founding father of the Pan African movement. His vision to bring people of African descent closer together, and establish a movement for rights and privileges is a legacy that lasts today.Sylvester Williams, was born in Arouca, Trinidad, in 1869. He lived with his father was a wheelwright who had come from Barbados, mother and four brothers and sisters. He excelled in his studies and went on to qualify as a school teacher in 1886, whilst still a teenager. His interest in politics had started, and in January 1890 was involved in the formation of the Trinidad Elementary Teachers Union.
He moved to New York in 1891, where he undertook several menial jobs including a shoe shiner. He went onto study law at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia, however he left before graduating. By 1896 he was on his way to England where it is thought he studied at King's College.
During 1897 he enrolled as a student of Gray's Inn to read for the bar, passing a preliminary examination in Latin, English and History.(check) To earn a living Williams started lecturing and travelling the country for the Church of England Temperance Society, and the National Thrift Society.
That same year Williams established the African Association. He was establishing himself as a leading figure in the black movement, having meetings with academics, politicians, and other figures including Booker T. Washington. He corresponded with editors of newspapers and journals regarding Pan-African issues. It was these activities which led to him forming the Pan-African Conference a few years later.
During his time in London Williams fell in love with a white Englishwoman, Agnes Powell. She was a member of the Temperance Society, and her father was Captain Francis Powell, who strongly objected to their union and refused to give his consent to marry. She ignored her father’s objections, and went on to marry Williams in 1898, they went on to have five children.
By 1900, he had successfully organised the first Pan-African Conference held at the Westminster Town Hall. It was a three-day conference, with 37 delegates including Samuel Coleridge Taylor, John Alcindor, Dadabhai Naoroji, John Archer and W.E.B Du Bois.
After the initial success of the conference, Williams left England in 1901, to set up new branches of the Pan-African Congress. He travelled to the United States, Jamaica and Trinidad. Pan-African Congress were still small in number, with an estimated 50 working members, in addition to around 150 white supporters.
Back in London he finished his exams and was called to the bar in June 1902, making him the first barrister of African descent to practise in Britain. The following year he travelled to South Africa where he practised law from 1903 to 1905, defending black cases. He also spent time in Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone.
Back in London again in 1906, Williams joined the Fabian Society, and became involved in local politics and was elected to public office with a seat on the Marylebone Borough Council. He remained in England for a further two years, before returning to Trinidad in 1908.
He returned to Trinidad in 1908 where he set up a successful legal practice in Port of Spain, where he worked until he died on 26th March, 1911.
Re: African American History Month Thread
Come on yall this is a history thread!
Come on yall this is a history thread!
Re: African American History Month Thread
Respect is due. The pioneers of the London Carnival were many and diverse. Some were organisers, some community leaders. Others were musicians – panists who brought their home grown skills to the streets of Britain in the days of ‘Pan-round-the-neck’. For three successive decades the spectacle grew in magnitude, attracting a plethora of mas bands, sound systems, vendors, and revellers from all corners of the earth. By the ‘90’s despite its many critics, Carnival had peaked, establishing an explosive, exuberant presence on the same streets that had witnessed race riots in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s.
Perhaps this is the clue to Claudia Jones’s role in the evolution of Carnival. Deported from America in the mid 1950’s Claudia was sent to Britain, rather than to her native Trinidad where she had lived the first 8 years of her life. As Marcus Garvey before her, she had become a thorn in the side of the American Establishment. Her non stop advocacy for Human rights, her prominence in a range of organisations that challenged inequality in the status quo (and particularly her membership of the Communist Party) made her ‘a live and present danger’ to the American state. They had to get rid of her. She was threatened, harassed, spied upon. The FBI kept her in their sights. They had an active file throughout the ‘50’s. In 1954 she was charged and found guilty of ‘un American activities’. After a year’s imprisonment she was deported to England, the Mother Country of the colonized West Indian people.
Claudia arrived here ill, dejected and penniless. Yet within a few years she had rallied around her a range of activists and talents who supported her career as a freedom fighter in England – the likes of Amy Ashwood Garvey, Pearl Prescod, Nadia Katouse, Beryl Macburnie, Trevor Carter, and her life long friend and mentor Paul Robeson.
Her experience in America had taught her that a people without a voice were as lambs to the slaughter. Her brainchild, the West Indian Gazette (1958-65) was a key contributor to the rise in Consciousness within the Black community. She lobbied tirelessly against an Immigration Act that effectively relegated Britain’s colonial populace to second class citizenship. An uncompromising agitator, she campaigned against racism in housing, education and employment. She addressed peace rallies and Trade Union congresses with equal fluency. She visited Russia, Japan, and China where she met with MaoTse Tung – all this, will suffering the pangs of ill health. Compounded by exile – both from the land of her birth and from her adopted country, America where she had lived for most of her life.
The first indoor Carnival, held at the St Pancreas Town Hall in January 1959, was a masterstroke of Claudia’s genius. Always aware of the power of Art and Culture to influence change, Claudia sought to reverse the disesteem, loneliness and alienation of Black people in Britain, people like herself who time and circumstance had washed up on foreign shores, far from their roots and origins.
In her childhood in Trinidad she had seen the power of Carnival to knit the many strands of a hugely diverse society in mass celebration. Here in England Carnival could become a double edged sword, redeeming the pride of Black immigrants, while extending the hand of friendship to a 'stiff necked people', uneducated and misinformed about the culture of the darker races. As in its Caribbean roots, Carnival would embrace protest within Celebration, and replace conflict with understanding. It would express liberty and equality through its rituals of masquerade. Hers was a deeply humanising mission.
The debate as to who initiated Carnival goes on. But claim and counter claim can never be resolved. The birth of all Carnival is organic – a natural evolution of people’s culture, responding to place, time, history and circumstance. The carnival belongs to the people. It reflects our common creativity, skills, tradition, and culture. It is a rich and free heritage that is now shared with Britain and internationally.
What is certain is that Claudia Jones was a pivotal mover of Carnival in Britain. She linked politics to art and culture in a strategy that embraced and involved the widest majority. Her greatest asset was her selflessness and unstinting devotion to the cause of the underdog. She was a humanitarian with a great heart. She deserves the place she has found in the hearts of the community.
Claudia Jones
Claudia Jones is at last claiming her place in history. In 2004 the Notting Hill Carnival celebrated 40 years on the streets of London. The annual spectacle now draws hundreds of thousands of locals, visitors and tourists to the streets of West London. In the 21st Century London’s Carnival has emerged as one of the world’s largest and most popular street festivals. Respect is due. The pioneers of the London Carnival were many and diverse. Some were organisers, some community leaders. Others were musicians – panists who brought their home grown skills to the streets of Britain in the days of ‘Pan-round-the-neck’. For three successive decades the spectacle grew in magnitude, attracting a plethora of mas bands, sound systems, vendors, and revellers from all corners of the earth. By the ‘90’s despite its many critics, Carnival had peaked, establishing an explosive, exuberant presence on the same streets that had witnessed race riots in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s.
Perhaps this is the clue to Claudia Jones’s role in the evolution of Carnival. Deported from America in the mid 1950’s Claudia was sent to Britain, rather than to her native Trinidad where she had lived the first 8 years of her life. As Marcus Garvey before her, she had become a thorn in the side of the American Establishment. Her non stop advocacy for Human rights, her prominence in a range of organisations that challenged inequality in the status quo (and particularly her membership of the Communist Party) made her ‘a live and present danger’ to the American state. They had to get rid of her. She was threatened, harassed, spied upon. The FBI kept her in their sights. They had an active file throughout the ‘50’s. In 1954 she was charged and found guilty of ‘un American activities’. After a year’s imprisonment she was deported to England, the Mother Country of the colonized West Indian people.
Claudia arrived here ill, dejected and penniless. Yet within a few years she had rallied around her a range of activists and talents who supported her career as a freedom fighter in England – the likes of Amy Ashwood Garvey, Pearl Prescod, Nadia Katouse, Beryl Macburnie, Trevor Carter, and her life long friend and mentor Paul Robeson.
Her experience in America had taught her that a people without a voice were as lambs to the slaughter. Her brainchild, the West Indian Gazette (1958-65) was a key contributor to the rise in Consciousness within the Black community. She lobbied tirelessly against an Immigration Act that effectively relegated Britain’s colonial populace to second class citizenship. An uncompromising agitator, she campaigned against racism in housing, education and employment. She addressed peace rallies and Trade Union congresses with equal fluency. She visited Russia, Japan, and China where she met with MaoTse Tung – all this, will suffering the pangs of ill health. Compounded by exile – both from the land of her birth and from her adopted country, America where she had lived for most of her life.
The first indoor Carnival, held at the St Pancreas Town Hall in January 1959, was a masterstroke of Claudia’s genius. Always aware of the power of Art and Culture to influence change, Claudia sought to reverse the disesteem, loneliness and alienation of Black people in Britain, people like herself who time and circumstance had washed up on foreign shores, far from their roots and origins.
In her childhood in Trinidad she had seen the power of Carnival to knit the many strands of a hugely diverse society in mass celebration. Here in England Carnival could become a double edged sword, redeeming the pride of Black immigrants, while extending the hand of friendship to a 'stiff necked people', uneducated and misinformed about the culture of the darker races. As in its Caribbean roots, Carnival would embrace protest within Celebration, and replace conflict with understanding. It would express liberty and equality through its rituals of masquerade. Hers was a deeply humanising mission.
The debate as to who initiated Carnival goes on. But claim and counter claim can never be resolved. The birth of all Carnival is organic – a natural evolution of people’s culture, responding to place, time, history and circumstance. The carnival belongs to the people. It reflects our common creativity, skills, tradition, and culture. It is a rich and free heritage that is now shared with Britain and internationally.
What is certain is that Claudia Jones was a pivotal mover of Carnival in Britain. She linked politics to art and culture in a strategy that embraced and involved the widest majority. Her greatest asset was her selflessness and unstinting devotion to the cause of the underdog. She was a humanitarian with a great heart. She deserves the place she has found in the hearts of the community.
Re: African American History Month Thread
Amy Jacques Garvey, like her husband, became a life-long toiler for Universal African Liberation and advancement. She was a very special person, pursuing a brilliant meaningful lifetime work of which every moment was dedicated to dissemination of the philosophy and principles of her beloved husband of race first, self-reliance and nationhood. Amy Jacques Garvey was an international organizer and race leader in her own right. In the cause for African Emancipation, her message was the same as her husband's -- "The hour of Black resurrection is at hand. Black man, Black woman, be up and doing for self and kind -- for you can achieve what you will." She was genuinely concerned with the plight of her fellow Africans and for this reason she toiled unceasingly from youth to old age to spread the teachings of African solidarity and independence. Mrs. Garvey was an exemplary politician and wife. She was best known as a publicist of Garveyism. In 1923, she edited and published Volume One of The Philosophy and Opinions of Marcus Garvey (sub-titled Africa for the Africans), and in 1925, she compiled and published Volume Two. During that time, she was one of the editors of the Negro World Newspaper.
From 1919, when she became the Secretary General of the UNIA until her death, 54 years of her life was intricately bound up with the national liberation struggles of African people. She was a relentless enemy of colonialism and neo-colonialism. In her letters, essays, books and speeches, she always stressed the point that the imperialist must not be allowed to creep in at the back fence in disguise in independent African countries.
She aided and contributed financial assistance to the workers' movement in Nigeria. She was instrumental in organizing the fifth Pan African Congress held in 1945. Twenty-five years later, she visited West Africa at the invitation of Kwame Nkrumah. During the 1940s she labored for the Peoples National Party of Jamaica. She also was a sponsor of the 6th Pan African Congress which convened in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania in 1974. In her final years between 1968-73, she had written and published Garvey and Garveyism (1963) and her collection of essays on Black Power in America and The Impact of Garvey in Africa and Jamaica.
Her activities in Jamaica and the United States from 1919 to 1940 prefaced the defeat of fascism and the irreversible disintegration of the colonial system which led to the upsurge and triumphs of the National Liberation Movement. Amy Jacques Garvey, who was in the forefront of this movement, wrote her seminal "A Memorandum Correlative of Africa, West Indies and the Americas" in 1944 which was sent to the representatives of the United Nations urging them to declare an "African Freedom Charter". She spent thousands of dollars in purchasing and mailing many pamphlets, leaflets and newspapers to Africa, the United States and Europe. She spent hours writing letters, articles and doing interviews and making speeches on Black Liberation. She refused to rest or accept payment for her work.
Amy Jacques Garvey died a fighter on July 25, 1973. Her work and memory serve the cause for which she stood. As a Pan African Patriot, Pioneering Nationalist, Political Scientist, Organizer, Journalist, Editor, Publisher, Philosopher, Mother, Wife and an immortal African Giant, she will live on forever for Black people the world over in memory of love and self-determination.
Amy Jacques Garvey
Amy Jacques Garvey was a pioneer Pan-African emancipator born in Kingston, Jamaica on December 31, 1885. She became the first lady of the Interim-Provisional Government of Africa - the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) and African Communities League (ACL) in August 1920. She was the wife of the Right Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey - The Universal African Redeemer, and mother of two sons -- Marcus Garvey, Jr. and Julius Garvey.Amy Jacques Garvey, like her husband, became a life-long toiler for Universal African Liberation and advancement. She was a very special person, pursuing a brilliant meaningful lifetime work of which every moment was dedicated to dissemination of the philosophy and principles of her beloved husband of race first, self-reliance and nationhood. Amy Jacques Garvey was an international organizer and race leader in her own right. In the cause for African Emancipation, her message was the same as her husband's -- "The hour of Black resurrection is at hand. Black man, Black woman, be up and doing for self and kind -- for you can achieve what you will." She was genuinely concerned with the plight of her fellow Africans and for this reason she toiled unceasingly from youth to old age to spread the teachings of African solidarity and independence. Mrs. Garvey was an exemplary politician and wife. She was best known as a publicist of Garveyism. In 1923, she edited and published Volume One of The Philosophy and Opinions of Marcus Garvey (sub-titled Africa for the Africans), and in 1925, she compiled and published Volume Two. During that time, she was one of the editors of the Negro World Newspaper.
From 1919, when she became the Secretary General of the UNIA until her death, 54 years of her life was intricately bound up with the national liberation struggles of African people. She was a relentless enemy of colonialism and neo-colonialism. In her letters, essays, books and speeches, she always stressed the point that the imperialist must not be allowed to creep in at the back fence in disguise in independent African countries.
She aided and contributed financial assistance to the workers' movement in Nigeria. She was instrumental in organizing the fifth Pan African Congress held in 1945. Twenty-five years later, she visited West Africa at the invitation of Kwame Nkrumah. During the 1940s she labored for the Peoples National Party of Jamaica. She also was a sponsor of the 6th Pan African Congress which convened in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania in 1974. In her final years between 1968-73, she had written and published Garvey and Garveyism (1963) and her collection of essays on Black Power in America and The Impact of Garvey in Africa and Jamaica.
Her activities in Jamaica and the United States from 1919 to 1940 prefaced the defeat of fascism and the irreversible disintegration of the colonial system which led to the upsurge and triumphs of the National Liberation Movement. Amy Jacques Garvey, who was in the forefront of this movement, wrote her seminal "A Memorandum Correlative of Africa, West Indies and the Americas" in 1944 which was sent to the representatives of the United Nations urging them to declare an "African Freedom Charter". She spent thousands of dollars in purchasing and mailing many pamphlets, leaflets and newspapers to Africa, the United States and Europe. She spent hours writing letters, articles and doing interviews and making speeches on Black Liberation. She refused to rest or accept payment for her work.
Amy Jacques Garvey died a fighter on July 25, 1973. Her work and memory serve the cause for which she stood. As a Pan African Patriot, Pioneering Nationalist, Political Scientist, Organizer, Journalist, Editor, Publisher, Philosopher, Mother, Wife and an immortal African Giant, she will live on forever for Black people the world over in memory of love and self-determination.
Re: African American History Month Thread
Slave revolutionary Denmark Vesey wanted freedom!
*This date celebrates the life of Denmark Vesey in 1767. He was self-educated black abolitionist who planned the most extensive slave revolt in U. S. history, Charleston, South Carolina, 1822.
Born in St. Thomas, Danish West Indies, he was sold in 1781 to a Bermuda slave captain named Joseph Vesey. Young Denmark, who assumed his master's surname, accompanied him on numerous voyages and in 1783 settled with his owner in Charleston.
In 1799 Vesey was allowed to purchase his freedom with $600 he had won in a street lottery. He was already familiar with the great Haitian slave revolt of the 1790s, and while working as a carpenter he read anti-slavery literature. Dissatisfied with his second-class status as a freedman and determined to help relieve the far more oppressive conditions of others he knew, Vesey planned and organized an uprising of city and plantation blacks.
The plan reportedly called for the rebels to attack guardhouses and arsenals, seize their arms, kill all Whites, burn and destroy the city, and free the slaves. As many as 9,000 Blacks may have been involved, though some scholars dispute this figure. Warned by a house servant
, White authorities on the eve of the scheduled outbreak made massive military preparations, which forestalled the rebellion. During the ensuing two months, some 130 Blacks were arrested.
In the trials that followed, 67 were convicted of trying to raise an insurrection; of these, 35, including Vesey, were hanged, July 2, 1822 in Charleston, South Carolina and 32 were condemned to exile. In addition, four White men were fined and imprisoned for encouraging the plot.
Reference:
African Americans and South Carolina:
History, Politics and Culture
Dr. Phebe Davidson
University of South Carolina-Aiken
http://www.aaregistry.com/african_a..._revolutionary_Denmark_Vesey__wanted__freedom
Slave revolutionary Denmark Vesey wanted freedom!
*This date celebrates the life of Denmark Vesey in 1767. He was self-educated black abolitionist who planned the most extensive slave revolt in U. S. history, Charleston, South Carolina, 1822.
Born in St. Thomas, Danish West Indies, he was sold in 1781 to a Bermuda slave captain named Joseph Vesey. Young Denmark, who assumed his master's surname, accompanied him on numerous voyages and in 1783 settled with his owner in Charleston.
In 1799 Vesey was allowed to purchase his freedom with $600 he had won in a street lottery. He was already familiar with the great Haitian slave revolt of the 1790s, and while working as a carpenter he read anti-slavery literature. Dissatisfied with his second-class status as a freedman and determined to help relieve the far more oppressive conditions of others he knew, Vesey planned and organized an uprising of city and plantation blacks.
The plan reportedly called for the rebels to attack guardhouses and arsenals, seize their arms, kill all Whites, burn and destroy the city, and free the slaves. As many as 9,000 Blacks may have been involved, though some scholars dispute this figure. Warned by a house servant
, White authorities on the eve of the scheduled outbreak made massive military preparations, which forestalled the rebellion. During the ensuing two months, some 130 Blacks were arrested.In the trials that followed, 67 were convicted of trying to raise an insurrection; of these, 35, including Vesey, were hanged, July 2, 1822 in Charleston, South Carolina and 32 were condemned to exile. In addition, four White men were fined and imprisoned for encouraging the plot.
Reference:
African Americans and South Carolina:
History, Politics and Culture
Dr. Phebe Davidson
University of South Carolina-Aiken
http://www.aaregistry.com/african_a..._revolutionary_Denmark_Vesey__wanted__freedom
Re: African American History Month Thread
Oh man...
I remember we had to read his book "Gifted Hands" in advanced English in 7th grade.
Nice thread, CC.
Ben Carson
Oh man...
I remember we had to read his book "Gifted Hands" in advanced English in 7th grade.
Nice thread, CC.
Re: African American History Month Thread
Well, the last time she did that was back in '77 and she's black so technically it is relevant to the topic
Well, the last time she did that was back in '77 and she's black so technically it is relevant to the topic
Re: African American History Month Thread
he started it
Well, the last time she did that was back in '77 and she's black so technically it is relevant to the topic
he started it
Re: African American History Month Thread
Thanks X. Props to everybody who is posting!
Oh man...
I remember we had to read his book "Gifted Hands" in advanced English in 7th grade.
Nice thread, CC.
Thanks X. Props to everybody who is posting!
Re: African American History Month Thread
We don't tolerate those petty jabs over at the Unsung Heroes thread on the Politics and Topics board. Some of your posts are redundant. We recognize all “Black” peoples of the African Diaspora, not just “Black” Americans.
We don't tolerate those petty jabs over at the Unsung Heroes thread on the Politics and Topics board. Some of your posts are redundant. We recognize all “Black” peoples of the African Diaspora, not just “Black” Americans.
Re: African American History Month Thread
I'm not sure exactly what you referring in what you said but I'll address one thing. When I titled the thread it wasn't meant to exclude those not "American". If a mod can change to say "Black" instead that's fine with me. Posters are free to post whomever they like.
Edit to add: I guess you were referring to the Stokely Carmichael post. . .. but I deleted that a long time before your comment.
I'm not sure exactly what you referring in what you said but I'll address one thing. When I titled the thread it wasn't meant to exclude those not "American". If a mod can change to say "Black" instead that's fine with me. Posters are free to post whomever they like.
Edit to add: I guess you were referring to the Stokely Carmichael post. . .. but I deleted that a long time before your comment.
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