For an abolitionist of the 1820s, David Walker's ideas were considered revolutionary. Therefore when his anti-slavery Appeal was published, it sparked fear in slave owners and he became a targeted enemy.

David Walker's Appeal

Image courtesy of the Library of Congress.

He was not the inventor of blues music, but W.C. Handy was dubbed the "Father of the Blues.” Handy was not only instrumental in the development of blues improvisation, but he was an important part of introducing this genre into mainstream music.

Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, Carl Van Vechten Collection.

Not even threats and other scare tactics could stop the desegregation of Central High. With the court and the federal government on their side, the Little Rock Nine bravely became the first black students to attend the Arkansas high school.

• School Desegregation Photos

Photo courtesy of Library of Congress, U.S. News & World Report Magazine Photograph Collection.

Josh Gibson, often called the black Babe Ruth, could hit a homer with amazing ease. He was one of the most powerful hitters in the Negro Leagues and stories of his homers were legendary. According to his Hall of Fame plaque, he hit almost 800 home runs in his 17-year baseball career. With such remarkable ability, he would have been a prime candidate to play in the major leagues. Just three months before baseball was integrated, Josh Gibson died.