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September 17, 2021
Mary Peake
Today in 1861 was the first day of class for free Africans in a school founded in Fortress Monroe, VA. Mary Peake was the first teacher for these students, who were protracted by the Union Army. Ms. Peake’s ‘classroom’ later became the beginnings of Hampton University in 1868.
Also on this day
The United States Constitution
The United States Constitution was approved and signed by 39 delegates on this day in 1787. The ratification process began on this day.
Diahann Carroll
On this day in 1968, Diahann Carroll starred in the television show, Julia, which premiered on NBC.
Martin Luther King, Jr.
On this day in 1973, Illinois honored Martin Luther King, Jr, by proclaiming a holiday on his birthday. In 1980, the United States Congress eventually declared that day a federal holiday.
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