April is International Black Women’s History Month: Honoring the Legacy of Black Women Around the World

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April is International Black Women’s History Month: Honoring the Legacy of Black Women Around the World

International Black Women’s History Month is important to me because I am a Black woman and feel we don’t get the recognition we deserve. I had no idea that we even had a month! This is a moment for us to reflect on the struggles we have faced throughout history and to honor the contributions and accomplishments of Black women throughout. We must recognize the significant contributions that Black women have made to society globally as we commemorate International Black Women’s History Month throughout April. Black women have significantly contributed to moulding our world as scientists, artists, educators, and civil rights activists. The history of International Black Women’s History Month, the nations that commemorate it, influential Black women from around the world, and ways to celebrate will all be covered on this page. Let’s not just celebrate those that contributed to our history but celebrate all the women out there. We take on a lot!

The History of International Black Women’s History Month

The United States first recognized National Black Women’s History Month, commonly called International Black Women’s History Month, in 1987. The National Women’s History Project was founded to draw attention to the accomplishments made by African women throughout history. In the early 2000s, other nations, including Canada, the UK, and Australia, began participating in the event.

Many nations worldwide, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, commemorate International Black Women’s History Month. 

Several Black women have made significant contributions to their respective disciplines worldwide.

Just a few are shown below:

The first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize was Wangari Maathai, who promoted women’s rights and environmental protection in Kenya.

  • Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a Nigerian author whose books, such as “Americanah” and “Half of a Yellow Sun,” have won praise from critics and shone attention on issues affecting immigrants and women.
  • Dr. Mae Jemison: A supporter of science education and the first African woman to travel to space.
  • The first Black woman and woman of color to hold the office of president in Africa, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, is the leader of Liberia. During her office, she strove to develop the nation’s economy, infrastructure, and healthcare system.
  • Brazilian politician and activist Marielle Franco worked for the rights of LGBTQ+ and Black women. Despite being murdered in 2018, her memory still motivates social justice movements worldwide.
  • Zulaikha Patel, a South African teenager, became a representation of opposition to discriminatory school regulations when she organized a demonstration against them. Young people all across the world have been motivated to fight for their rights through her advocacy.
  • A feminist activist from Nigeria named Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti battled for women’s rights and against colonialism. She played a significant role in Nigeria’s fight for independence and was the country’s first female driver.
  • Shirley Chisolm, an African-American politician, was the first Black woman elected to the US Congress. Moreover, she was the first Black woman and woman of color to run for president of the United States in a major political party.
  • Environmental and political activist Wangari Maathai was the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. She is from Kenya. She established the Green Belt Movement, a group dedicated to preserving the environment and fostering community growth by planting trees.
  • Stacy Abrams is an American novelist, lawyer, politician, and advocate for voting rights who served as the Georgia House of Representatives Minority Leader from 2011 to 2017. She was the driving force behind voter turnout in the 2020 US presidential election and created the voting rights group Fair Fight Action.
  • Yamiche Alcindor- A journalist of Haitian descent who covers the White House for PBS NewsHour. She is a reputable journalist who has covered some of the most important topics of our time, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Black Lives Matter demonstrations.

Conclusion

In the United States, Black History Month was first observed in February 1970, where this month’s history can be found. International Black Women’s History Month was established after the focus widened to include the accomplishments and experiences of Black women. Even though Black History Month is not yet a recognized national holiday, continuing to celebrate and acknowledge it is a crucial step toward realizing the contributions and accomplishments of Black women globally.

Lyda D. Newman: The Inventor Who Revolutionized the Hairbrush

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Lyda D. Newman: The Inventor Who Revolutionized the Hairbrush

 

Lyda D. Newman, a ground-breaking innovator and champion for women’s rights, made an imprint on American history. Being a black woman in the early 20th century, Newman overcame many challenges to make ground-breaking advancements in engineering and design. One of her most famous contributions was the development of a novel hairbrush that became wildly popular and completely altered the cosmetics industry. This article will examine some exciting trivia regarding Lyda D. Newman’s astonishing inventions and her fascinating life and legacy.

Early Life and Education

Lyda D. Newman was raised in a household that valued education and hard work. She was born in Ohio in 1885. Her parents came from the South to Ohio as emigrants pursuing better possibilities. Despite racial prejudice and discrimination, Newman excelled in school and showed a strong passion for learning and problem-solving from an early age. Newman attended Howard University after graduating from high school, where she majored in math and physics and discovered a profound love for engineering.

Inventor of the hairbrush designed for black hair

Newman created and copyrighted a revolutionary type of hairbrush when she was just 13 years old, which would revolutionize the cosmetics industry. She incorporated rows of synthetic bristles into a rubber base that allowed the bristles to bend and conform to the contours of the user’s scalp. It used synthetic bristles, which are more durable and robust than the animal hair that was typically used.

The brush was designed specifically for the hair of Black Americans. Faster cleaning was made possible by the ability of synthetic bristles to comb through thicker hair more efficiently and to be separated and reattached. Moreover, there was an air chamber so the brush could dry fast and a section to catch any debris or fallen dandruff.

History of the Hair Brush

In Great Britain, William Kent established the first company that produced hair brushes, Kent Brushes, in 1777—one hair brush required as many as 12 persons to complete. Bristles were hand-stitched together and continue to be one of the country’s oldest businesses. In 1885, a second Englishman created the automatic brush boring machine. In this method, the production of brushes might increase. The same year, Mason Pearson also developed a pneumatic rubber cushioned brush, and this fashion is still widely used.

Lyda D. Newman wasn’t the first to invent the hairbrush in the US. The states had their fair share of inventors in the hair brush industry. The first person to patent a hair brush invention was Hugh Rock. He was renowned for producing exquisite gift sets, including matching metal-handled brushes, combs, and mirrors. They frequently have scalloped edges to enhance their brilliance further. In 1870, Samuel Firey filed for a patent on his elastic wire teeth. To obtain the best of both worlds, he mixed them with natural bristles. Then Lyda Newman submitted a patent for synthetic bristles in 1898.

Advocacy for Women’s Suffrage

With her revolutionary work as an inventor, Newman was a vocal supporter of women’s rights, including the right to vote. She diligently strove to advance the notion that women should have equal opportunity and representation in all spheres of society. Newman participated in several women’s organizations, including the Equal Suffrage League and the National Organization of Colored Women, and she frequently spoke and lectured on the value of women’s rights.

Newman’s Legacy

Lyda D. Newman made significant contributions to engineering, design, and women’s rights that will live on in American history. The creation of the hairbrush transformed the cosmetics industry and made it possible for other women to pursue careers in engineering and design. The feminist movement of the 20th century had its roots in Newman’s support for women’s suffrage, and her legacy still motivates women and girls to follow their dreams and break down obstacles.

Lyda D. Newman

Lyda D. Newman. (2023, March 3). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lyda_D._Newman

Fun Facts about Lyda D. Newman

  1. Newman was a talented designer, tailor, innovator, and supporter of women’s rights. She helped other women in her town and made her garments using her sewing abilities.

2. Sarah E. Goode and Judy W. Reed preceded Newman as the first black woman ever to be granted patents.

3. The design of Newman’s hairbrush was so popular that it endured for many years and was even used in commercials for well-known products like Coca-Cola and Palmolive.

4. Newman  was an active member of the NAACP in her NYC,

5. Newman was a prominent opponent of racism and segregation and supported women’s rights. Along with other activists, she fought for gender and racial equality for all people.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lyda D. Newman significantly contributed to American history as a great inventor and champion of women’s rights. She made ground-breaking contributions to engineering and design disciplines and tirelessly fought for civil rights and women’s suffrage, which profoundly affected society. In addition to challenging gender stereotypes of the day, Newman’s invention of the hairbrush transformed the beauty industry, and her support of women’s rights paved the path for later generations of women. Newman persevered in her ambitions despite encountering many challenges, and her legacy has inspired and empowered women and girls worldwide.

 

12 Facts About Clarice Phelps, First Black Woman to Help Discover a New Element

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12 Facts About Clarice Phelps, First Black Woman to Help Discover a New Element

“I often find myself the only black woman or the only woman in a room all the time. I mean, all the time,” she says. “For some people that is not their reality, they’re not able to understand what it feels like to always walk into the room and get certain kind of looks or certain types of questions because you’re different.”

Clarice Phelps

Introduction

Clarice Phelps made history when she became the first African woman to contribute to discovering a new element on the periodic table, tennessine, with the atomic number 117. She is a gifted and committed researcher who has achieved essential advancements in nuclear chemistry.

What is Tennessine?

Tennessine is a man-made chemical element with the atomic number 117 and the letter Ts. It is a very radioactive substance. Tennessine belongs to the halogen family and is predicted to have properties resembling those of astatine, iodine, and chlorine. Tennessine has no known biological function and is not utilized in any commercial applications due to its brief half-life.

Clarice Phelps
Tennessine, Element 117, was discovered by scientists at Vanderbilt, the University of Tennessee and Oak Ridge National Laboratory. (Vanderbilt University Creative Services)

Here are 12 fun facts about Clarice Phelps:

  1. Phelps was born and raised in the Virginia town of Lynchburg. Even though she was raised in a low-income family, her parents instilled a love of study and a strong work ethic in her.
  2. Phelps graduated with a degree in chemistry from Lynchburg College in 2003. She later graduated from the University of Florida with a Master’s in nuclear engineering.
  3. Phelps worked at Cole-Parmer, a manufacturer of chemical instruments, after serving in the US Navy. A year later, though, she left Chicago because she didn’t like the city’s chilly weather and returned to Tennessee.
  4. Phelps started working as a research worker at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) in 2006. She advanced to join the radio chemistry team as a scientist.
  5. While employed at ORNL, Phelps was instrumental in discovering tennessine, a brand-new element on the periodic table. The element’s isotopes were created in a particle accelerator, and she was in charge of processing and purifying them.
  6. Phelps was listed as a co-discoverer of tennessine by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) for its discovery. Only two women were on the list, including her.
  7. She worked on the nuclear reactor, steam generator chemical controls, and the reactor’s water for four and a half years while stationed on the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan. Twice she deployed
  8. Phelps has held a position as an adjunct professor at the University of Tennessee and her employed at ORNL. She is dedicated to encouraging underrepresented groups to seek careers in science and has mentored numerous young scientists.
  9. Phelps has received accolades for her work in science from several organizations, including the Black Engineer of the Year Award. She is a member of the National Society of Black Engineers.
  10. Phelps met her husband, a nuclear chemist while working at ORNL. Together, they are parents to two kids.
  11. Phelps is a proponent of clean energy and is interested in environmental issues, in addition to her work in nuclear chemistry.
  12. Many young scientists, especially women and people of color, look up to Phelps as a role model and source of inspiration. She is committed to making science more open and available to everyone, and she has overcome numerous challenges to get where she is now.

Conclusion

Clarice Phelps is a distinguished scientist and a leader in her area, to sum up. Her role in discovering a new element is a noteworthy accomplishment and evidence of her talent, commitment, and tenacity. Young scientists who want to change the world of science, especially those from underrepresented groups, find inspiration in their life and work. Clarice Phelps has demonstrated that anything is achievable with effort, tenacity, and a positive outlook by smashing barriers and preconceptions.

Shymane Robinson, the Youngest Black Lawyer to Open an Office on the Southside of Chicago

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Shymane Robinson, the Youngest Black Lawyer to Open an Office on the Southside of Chicago

Introduction

The youngest black attorney to establish a practice on Chicago’s Southside is Shymane Robinson, 31. She founded True Lawyer, providing general counsel to Cyprus Investments, LLC, a Chicago-based, privately held investment firm. Although Robinson’s road has yet to be straightforward, her success story deserves to be known to as many people as possible. Robinson’s resilience and tenacity have helped her get where she is now, despite growing up in a challenging neighborhood and facing challenges in both her academic and professional lives.

Being Raised in a Difficult Neighborhood

Shymane Robinson had a complex background. She was raised in a dangerous South Side Chicago neighborhood where crime and violence were prevalent. Robinson was motivated to succeed despite the challenges she encountered. She concentrated on academics and did well in school since she understood that knowledge was the key to a better life.

Facing Challenges in Academic Life

When Robinson got accepted into a prominent university, the University of Illinois Law School, her perseverance paid off. She attended law school after receiving high honors for her graduation. Robinson’s journey through law school was complex, too. She had to overcome several challenges, including discrimination and financial hardship. She persisted, nevertheless and eventually earned a law degree.

Shymane Robinson
Photo credit: Black New.com

Breaking Barriers in the Legal Field

After graduating from law school, Robinson faced another obstacle – finding a job as a black lawyer. She faced discrimination and bias but refused to give up. Instead, she decided to open her own law office on the Southside of Chicago, an area dire need of legal representation.

Robinson has been a role model for many thanks to her accomplishments as a young black lawyer. She is dismantling obstacles in the legal profession and encouraging others to follow their aspirations despite how challenging they may seem.

Determining the Value of Representation

Shaymane Robinson’s accomplishments are motivating and significant for the legal community. For all people to have access to justice, there must be diversity and inclusion in the legal profession. A historically underrepresented and underserved population now receives legal counsel because of Robinson’s presence on Chicago’s South Side.

Impact on the Community

The Southside of Chicago has significantly benefited from Robinson’s efforts there. Those who would not otherwise have had legal representation received it from her law firm. Robinson is an effective spokesperson for those who have been disenfranchised and mistreated because of her focus on social justice problems like housing discrimination and police brutality. Her clients, coworkers, and peers appreciate and admire her for her commitment to serving the community.

The Importance of Mentorship and Support

Robinson’s accomplishments serve as a reminder of the value of guidance and assistance. Young and black, Robinson encountered many challenges on her path to achievement. She was lucky enough to have mentors and supporters along the way who believed in her and gave her encouragement. Today, Robinson mentors and acts as an example for young attorneys, particularly those from disadvantaged groups. Her tale serves as a monument to the value of mentoring and encouragement and a call to action for people in privileged positions to uplift and support those breaking down barriers and improving their communities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world should be aware of Shymane Robinson’s success. Her path from a rough area to becoming the youngest black attorney to open an office on Chicago’s Southside proves her strength of tenacity and willpower. Robinson’s representation on Chicago’s South Side is a step toward a more inclusive and diverse legal profession, and her narrative motivates those who encounter challenges on the road to achievement.

Sylvia Robinson: The Mother of Hip Hop

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Sylvia Robinson: The Mother of Hip Hop

Introduction

Hip-hop has become among the most well-known and significant musical genres worldwide, but it wasn’t always that way. Hip-hop was largely an underground movement in its early years, with few mainstream venues for the music. This changed with the release of the Sugarhill Gang’s “Rapper’s Delight,” the first commercially successful hip-hop single, in 1979. And one woman—Sylvia Robinson, the Mother of Hip Hop—was responsible for that momentous occasion.

Sylvia Robinson has profoundly influenced hip-hop and popular culture. She was a songwriter, performer, and community activist, in addition to being a record executive. Her risk-taking attitude and entrepreneurial spirit paved the way for the commercial success of the hip-hop genre and helped launch the careers of several hip-hop acts. The life and contributions of Sylvia Robinson, known as the Mother of Hip Hop, will be discussed in this blog post.

 

Facts

  1. In 1935, Sylvia Robinson was born in New York City’s Harlem. Despite growing up in poverty, she began singing in church choirs at a young age.
  2. The Mixtures, a vocal group Sylvia founded in the 1950s, had a minor hit with the song “The Push and Kick.”
  3. When Sylvia and her husband, Joe Robinson, co-founded All Platinum Records in the 1960s, Sylvia’s musical career took off.
  4. In the R&B and soul genres, All Platinum Records had several hits, including “Pillow Talk” by Sylvia and the Moments.
  1. In 1979, Sylvia formed Sugar Hill Records, one of the most influential hip-hop labels ever.
  2. Sugar Hill Records released the first commercially successful hip hop single, “Rapper’s Delight,” by the Sugarhill Gang in 1979. The song reached #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and introduced hip-hop to a broader audience.
  3. Besides running a record company, Sylvia Robinson was a musician and songwriter. Many of the tracks she released were co-written and produced by Sugar Hill Records.
  1. Sylvia Robinson launched other hip-hop acts’ careers besides “Rapper’s Delight.” Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five’s 1982 single “The Message,” which became a staple of hip-hop music, resulted from her signing them to Sugar Hill Records.
  2. Sylvia Robinson was renowned for her risk-taking and entrepreneurial tendencies. She invested substantially in the music and the musicians since she was among the first to see hip-hop’s potential as a lucrative genre.
  3. Sylvia Robinson encountered several obstacles despite her fame in the music business. Being a woman and a person of color in a predominately male field presented numerous difficulties for Sylvia Robinson, and she frequently had to fight for respect and respect.
  4. Sylvia Robinson was active in the music industry and her community. She participated in several philanthropic groups and sought to improve the community.
  5. Sylvia Robinson was known for her business acumen and her ability to spot talent. She signed several successful hip-hop acts to Sugar Hill Records, including Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five.
  6. At 76, Sylvia Robinson passed away in 2011. Her influence on the music industry and popular culture is still felt today, and she is remembered as the Mother of Hip Hop.

Women in Hip-Hop


Although they have contributed significantly to the development of hip-hop, women have frequently been ignored or sidelined. Female MCs like Roxanne Shante, MC Lyte, and Queen Latifah became influential voices in hip-hop’s early years and used their lyrics to speak out against racism and misogyny. Women were frequently cast as backup dancers or sexualized objects in music videos as the genre became more commercialized in the 1980s and 1990s. Hip-hop women have persisted in pushing boundaries and dismantling stereotypes despite these obstacles. Female hip-hop artists like Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, and Nicki Minaj are currently challenged by the music industry, dominating the charts.

Conclusion

It is impossible to overestimate Sylvia Robinson’s influence on hip-hop and popular culture. Dubbed the “Mother of Hip Hop,” she laid the path for the genre’s commercial success by launching the careers of numerous hip-hop musicians. She stands out among her peers in the music industry thanks to her business sense, willingness to take chances, and talent for talent spotting. Sylvia Robinson succeeded and left a lasting legacy despite overcoming numerous obstacles as a woman and a person of color in a predominately male field. Future generations will continue to benefit from her contributions to hip-hop and popular culture.

Valerie Thomas: The Inventor of the illusion transmitter 3D Movies

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Valerie Thomas: The Inventor of the illusion transmitter 3D Movies

Valerie Thomas, an African American scientist and innovator, transformed the 3D film industry. She was born in Maryland in 1943 and became interested in science and technology at a young age. She worked for the National Aeronautics and Space Agency after earning a physics degree from Morgan State University (NASA).

The biography of Valerie Thomas and her contributions to the 3D film industry will be discussed in this blog.

Early Life and Education

Her parents were farmers, and Valerie Thomas grew up in a household of eight siblings. She read science and technology-related books at the neighborhood library a lot as a child since she was so interested in them. Her passion for science persisted throughout high school, and she finally received a scholarship to attend Morgan State University.

Thomas, one of only two women in her class at Morgan State, majored in physics, and she achieved academic excellence and graduated with honors in 1964.

Career at NASA

Valerie Thomas started working at NASA as a data analyst soon after graduating. She was in charge of interpreting data from satellites and other spacecraft to aid researchers in understanding the Earth’s atmosphere and climate. Her work at NASA ultimately led to her revolutionary 3D film production.

The invention of the Illusion Transmitter

Valerie Thomas was engaged in a project in the 1970s that involved investigating the behavior of light. She was intrigued by how light moved and how it could be manipulated to produce various effects. She discovered that concave mirrors might be used to create a 3D image one day while experimenting with them.

Thomas concluded that she could use this method to develop a tool enabling real-time 3D image transmission. She began further perfecting her creation, which she named the “illusion transmitter.”

Patent for the Illusion Transmitter

Impact on 3D Movies

The creation of Valerie Thomas had a significant influence on the 3D film industry. Before her discovery, 3D movies were produced by simultaneously projecting two films onto a screen. Although it made a 3D appearance, it was frequently hazy and unsettling.

A single film could make 3D movies with the illusion transmitter. The system produced the illusion of depth using concave mirrors, making sight clearer and more pleasant.

Additional Fun Facts:

  1. Valerie Thomas has a background in science and technology, but she has also led a Girl Scout troop for many years. She developed engaging and instructive activities for her troop using her scientific knowledge.

2. African American art and antiquities were something Valerie Thomas loved to acquire. She collected everything, from quilts and pottery to sculptures and paintings.

3. “Girls Think of Everything: Stories of Amazing Inventions by Women,” a children’s book by Catherine Thimmesh, refers to Thomas. Among the accomplishments of female innovators throughout history emphasized in the book is Thomas’ work on the illusion transmitter.

4. Valerie Thomas fought for the participation of women and underrepresented groups in the sciences. She frequently delivered talks and presentations to inspire young people from underrepresented groups to pursue jobs in science and technology.

Valerie Thomas also had several other patents for innovations in image processing and color television, in addition to her work on the illusion transmitter. She created a lot of inventions during her time at NASA.

Legacy and Awards

While Valerie Thomas left NASA in 1995, she kept developing her ideas. In 1980, she got a patent for the illusion transmitter, and during her career, she won various accolades.

Valerie Thomas was honored by being admitted to the National Inventors Hall of Fame for her work on the illusion transmitter in 2018. She also received the NASA Equal Opportunity Medal in 1992 and the Goddard Honor Award for Outstanding Outreach Achievement in 1990.

Conclusion

Movies made to give the impression of depth and dimension are referred to as 3D movies or stereoscopic cinema. They provide a sense of depth, and complete items on the screen appear closer or farther away by using unique technology to project two slightly different images onto the screen, one for each eye. With the use of special glasses, a three-dimensional viewing experience is produced by the blending of the pictures. The film’s visual effects are improved by this technology, which can also increase the immersion and excitement of the viewing experience.

The illusion transmitter, created by Valerie Thomas, completely changed how 3D movies were made and significantly impacted the entertainment business. Several scientists and inventors have been motivated by her curiosity, perseverance, and commitment to her job, and her legacy will have a long-lasting impact on the technology industry.

Muriel Tramis: The First Black Woman Video Game Designer

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Muriel Tramis: The First Black Woman Video Game Designer

Men controlled the video gaming industry in the 1980s. The first black woman to design a video game was Muriel Tramis, a French-Caribbean woman who defied convention. Future generations of women and minorities in the game business can thank her for paving the way. This blog post will examine Muriel Tramis and her video game industry accomplishments in more detail.

Early Life and Career

In 1958, Muriel Tramis was born in the Caribbean French colony of Martinique. Early on, she became interested in computers and programming, and she later attended the University of Paris to study computer science. She worked as a software engineer for a while after graduation before switching to video game production.

In 1958, Muriel Tramis was born in the Caribbean French colony of Martinique. Early on, she became interested in computers and programming, and she later attended the University of Paris to study computer science. She worked as a software engineer for a while after graduation before switching to video game production.

Fun Fact #1: Muriel Tramis was inspired by the potential of video games to tell meaningful stories. She wanted to use video games to learn more about her cultural background and to provide voices to those frequently left out of the narratives of video games.

Fun Fact #2: She was also a founding member of the Zouk Machine, a group supporting Caribbean music and culture.

Fun Fact #3: Muriel Tramis left the video game industry after several years to pursue other passions, such as instructing computer science and creating educational software.

Video game creation

Tramis joined the French video game business Coktel Vision as a game designer in 1987. Although she worked on several games, Freedom: Rebels in the Darkness, released in 1989, is her most well-known creation. The game was hailed for its historical realism and engaging gameplay as it chronicles a slave uprising in the Caribbean in the late 18th century.

 “Freedom: Rebels in the Darkness”! Released in 1988 on DOS

About the game Rebels in the Darkness

Rebels in the Darkness was created by Muriel Tramis and published in 1989. The game is set in the Caribbean in the late 18th century when slavery was still widely practiced. The player assumes the position of Esteban, an African woman being held as a slave and is determined to launch a revolt against her captors.

Instead of being played on consoles, the game was played on personal computers such as the Atari ST, Amiga, and DOS.

The gameplay entails navigating various areas, solving puzzles, and conversing with non-playable characters to get resources and knowledge. Toussaint L’Ouverture, the leader of the Haitian revolution, is one of the historical personalities and events the player encounters as they advance through the game. 

The dialogue in Freedom: Rebels in the Darkness uses Creole, a French-Caribbean language, which is unique. The gaming business, which had hitherto concentrated on English and other popular languages, was revolutionized by this action.

Fourth fun fact: The game Freedom: Rebels in the Darkness was one of the earliest video games to deal with a significant historical event. 

Fun Fact #5: Tramis used Creole, a French-Caribbean language, in her games. Characters spoke that language.

Fun Fact #6: The game’s heroine, Esteban, an enslaved lady, was based on Tramis’ grandmother.

Influence and Legacy

After several years, Tramis continued to work in the video game industry but finally quit to pursue other interests. Yet, it is impossible to overstate her influence on the sector. She paved the way for women and underrepresented groups in a male-dominated industry, and her games defied preconceived preconceptions about what video games could be.

Interesting fact #7: In 2021, Tramis was admitted to the Hall of Fame of the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences.

Fun Fact #8: Tramis’ games have been updated for contemporary platforms, bringing her creations to the attention of a brand-new generation of players.

Fun fact #9: In 2012, “The Art of Video Games” at the Smithsonian American Art Museum included Freedom: Rebels in the Darkness.

https://americanart.si.edu/exhibitions/games

Tenth fun fact: Her most popular video games she created were:

  1. Freedom: Rebels in the Darkness (1990)
  2. Méwilo (1992)
  3. Lost in Time (1993)
  4. Gobliiins (1993)
  5. Geisha (1990)

Conclusion

It is impossible to overestimate Muriel Tramis’ contributions to the video gaming industry. She dismantled barriers and opened the way for later generations as the first black woman to design video games. Her legacy continues to encourage diversity and inclusiveness in the gaming industry. Her games set the bar for cultural relevance and historical authenticity.

Wilma Rudolph: 25 Facts of a Trailblazing Black History Track Athlete

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Wilma Rudolph: 25 Facts of a Trailblazing Black History Track Athlete

Introduction to Wilma Rudolph

Wilma Rudolph became the first American woman to win three track and field gold medals at the same Olympic competition. She was dubbed “the fastest lady in the world” due to her accomplishments. Track and field pioneer Wilma Rudolph also played a significant role in the civil rights movement. She was told she would never walk again because she was born prematurely and contracted polio as a young child. Nevertheless, she became one of history’s finest athletes and the first American woman to win three gold medals in a single Olympic competition. We’ll look at 15 fascinating facts about Wilma Rudolph’s life and legacy in this blog, starting with her early challenges and ending with her ground-breaking successes on and off the track. Commemorate this outstanding athlete and civil rights leader with us throughout Women’s History Month, Black History Month and all year round.

25 Fun Facts about Rudolph

1 . Wilma Rudolph was born on June 23, 1940, in St. Bethlehem, Tennessee.

  1. She was the 20th of her parents’ 22 children to be born.
  2. Rudolph was born 4.5 pounds underweight and early.
  3. At age 5, she developed polio, which caused her left leg and foot to twist.
  4. Despite being warned by physicians that she would never be able to walk again, Rudolph persisted.
  5. When she was nine years old, she began jogging as a form of physical treatment.
  6. At 13, Rudolph defeated all the guys in her school to win her first race.
  7. Eventually, she was awarded a scholarship at Tennessee State University.
  1. At 16, Rudolph ran in her first Olympics in 1956 in Melbourne, Australia.
  2. She was the first American woman to accomplish this when she won three gold medals at the 1960 Olympics in Rome.
  3. Rudolph resigned from athletics at the age of 22, having won a total of four Olympic medals.
  4. She transitioned from competing in sports to coaching and teaching.
  5. Rudolph collaborated with Martin Luther King Jr., a devoted civil rights campaigner, to advance equality.
  6. In 1983, she was admitted into the American Olympic Hall of Fame.
  7. On November 12, 1994, at 54, Rudolph died from brain cancer.
  8. In Rudolph’s Tennessee hometown of Clarksville, there is an annual track and field competition called the Wilma Rudolph Invitational.
  9. She was given the nickname “Tennessee Tornado” for her remarkable speed on the track.
  10. Rudolph made history by being the first American female gold medalist in the 100-meter sprint.
  11. She set a world record for the 200-meter sprint at the 1960 Olympics by completing it in 24 seconds.
Wilma Rudolph
Wilma Rudolph. (2023, March 21). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wilma_Rudolph
  1. Initially a sorority member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Rudolph eventually became an honorary member.
  2. In 1993, President Bill Clinton gave her the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
  3. In 1977, Cicely Tyson portrayed Rudolph’s mother in the made-for-TV film “Wilma,” which told Rudolph’s life.
  4. In 2002, she inspired the naming of a middle school in her community.
  5. Rudolph was renowned for her high knee lift and beautiful running gait.
  6. She was the first Black American woman featured on a U.S. postage stamp.

These details give us a glimpse into Wilma Rudolph’s extraordinary life, from her modest upbringing to her outstanding accomplishments as a sportswoman and a civil rights fighter. Her determination and resilience in the face of hardship inspire people worldwide today.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Wilma Rudolph inspires people worldwide via her life and legacy. She persevered in pursuing her goals despite enormous challenges like poverty, illness, and discrimination and found incredible success as an athlete and civil rights activist. She sets a beautiful example for all of us with her strength, tenacity, and grit, showing us that we can overcome obstacles to accomplish great things. Rudolph has significantly impacted sports and society, as evidenced by her ground-breaking Olympic victories and support for racial and gender equality. She will continue to inspire and be a great figure in African history for upcoming generations. Remember her life and legacy as we fight for justice and equality for all.

Althea Gibson: The First Black Woman to Win a Grand Slam Tennis Tournament

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Althea Gibson: The First Black Woman to Win a Grand Slam Tennis Tournament

Introduction


Althea Gibson was a trailblazing athlete who broke down barriers in tennis. As the first Black woman to compete in and win a Grand Slam tournament, she inspired a generation of athletes and changed the face of tennis forever. In this blog post, we’ll look closely at Althea Gibson’s life and legacy, including her early years, rise to tennis stardom, and lasting impact on the sport.

Early Life and Tennis Career

Born in South Carolina in 1927, Althea Gibson was raised in New York’s Harlem neighborhood. Early on, she picked up tennis and rapidly demonstrated her athletic potential. She was, however, denied entry to numerous tennis competitions and clubs in the 1940s and 1950s because she was a Black woman, a group that experienced substantial discrimination.

Althea developed her tennis abilities on the Harlem courts despite these obstacles as she followed her love for the game. She won her first competition, the American Tennis Association (ATA) New York State Championship, in 1946. She then went on to capture ten straight ATA national championships. She also started competing in Grand Slam competitions like Wimbledon and the US Nationals. (now the U.S. Open).

Grand Slam Victories and Legacy

Althea Gibson made history in 1956, becoming the first Black woman to triumph in a Grand Slam competition. She defeated British competitor Angela Buxton in the championship match to win the French Open. She cemented her reputation as one of tennis’s all-time greats by winning Wimbledon and the U.S. Nationals the following year.

Althea’s accomplishments on the court represented a significant breakthrough for Black competitors and was an example for many other athletes. She played tennis competitively until 1971, at which point she retired. She then started mentoring young athletes and fighting for equality in sports.

Althea Gibson’s impact is still felt today thanks to the Althea Gibson Foundation, which aids underprivileged young athletes. She was also given an honorary induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1971, and her influence on tennis continues today.

Here are some more facts about Althea Gibson:

  1. Althea Gibson experienced prejudice and discrimination throughout her tennis career. She frequently encountered tournament admission denials, bigotry, and racial discrimination on and off the court. Despite these obstacles, she persisted and paved the way for upcoming Black athletic generations.
  2. Althea Gibson was a skilled tennis player, gifted musician, and singer. She performed in places like the Apollo Theater and even issued the record “Althea Gibson Sings.”
  3. Althea Gibson made significant contributions to both tennis and golf. She gave up tennis and switched to golf, becoming the first Black woman to play on the LPGA tour. She also wrote a book titled “I Always Wanted to Be Somebody” about her experiences in both sports.
  4. Althea Gibson paved the way for women in athletics and for Black athletes. Women faced significant obstacles to participation and recognition when she was participating because women’s tennis was still predominantly an amateur sport. Billie Jean King and Serena Williams were among the next female tennis stars who benefited from Althea’s success.
  5. Numerous honors have been given to Althea Gibson for her contributions to tennis, including the USTA’s naming of the Althea Gibson Leadership Award and the Althea Gibson Cup, which is given to the champion of the HBCU National Tennis Championships each year.

Review

  1. Althea Gibson was raised in New York City’s Harlem after being born in Silver, South Carolina, in 1927. She was the eldest of her family’s five kids.
  2. Althea Gibson played table tennis and paddle tennis before switching to tennis. She began playing tennis at 14 on open courts in New York City, which was her introduction to the sport.
  3. Althea Gibson was not just a trailblazer in athletics but also education. She was the first Black woman to enroll and earn a degree at London’s esteemed Wimbledon School of Art.
  4. In 1956, Althea Gibson won her first significant international tennis match at the French Open. She became the first male Black tennis player to win the women’s singles and doubles titles.
  5. The International Tennis Hall of Fame inducted Althea Gibson in 1971, and the National Women’s Hall of Fame inducted her in 1983. Her legacy as a tennis pioneer continues to inspire and motivate athletes worldwide. She passed away in 2003 at the age of 76.

Conclusion

Althea Gibson was a trailblazing athlete who dismantled stereotypes and paved the way for succeeding tennis generations. She made history on the court, and her legacy as a trailblazer and a champion for equality will continue to motivate athletes for years to come.

Tyler Perry Wants to Buy BET TV Network: What This Means for Black Entertainment

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Tyler Perry Wants to Buy BET TV Network: What This Means for Black Entertainment

I was a huge BET fan when I was a kid, and I remember spending hours in front of the TV, mesmerized by the music videos and eagerly waiting for my favorite shows to come on. Today, I don’t even know what channel it’s on, and I don’t know anyone watching the network. That’s not true. I actually used to record “The Have and Have Nots” and now “The Oval.” They are my guilty-pressure TV shows I don’t talk about that much.

Tyler Perry, an American actor, writer, producer, and director, recently indicated his interest in buying the BET TV network, a cable network which stands for Black Entertainment Television. The network is committed to airing content that explores African-American culture. The news of Perry’s potential acquisition has generated a lot of attention and speculative discussion inside the entertainment business, especially among those concerned about the future of black entertainment.

History of B.E.T

Robert L. Johnson, one of America’s most well-known black business leaders, launched BET in 1980. Johnson founded the network with a $15,000 loan from his mother and intended to develop a venue highlighting black talent and culture. BET immediately became popular with viewers all around the country since, at the time, there weren’t many possibilities for black voices on television.

Robert L. Johnson. (2023, March 7). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_L._Johnson

Viacom acquired BET for $3 billion in 2001, making it one of the most expensive media purchases ever made. While Viacom owned it, BET continued to create well-known programs and occasions, such as the BET Awards and the BET Hip Hop Awards. The network was criticized for deviating too far from its primary goal of uplifting and inspiring black people.

BET has experienced decreased viewership and competition from other networks and streaming services in recent years. Moreover, the company’s leadership has changed, as some well-known executives left in 2017 and 2018. These elements influenced Tyler Perry’s interest in acquiring the network.

Who is Tyler Perry?


Tyler Perry is one of the most prosperous and significant personalities in the entertainment business. He is renowned for developing and embodying the role of Madea, an elderly woman who is sassy and wisecracks and has become a cultural icon. The popular TV series “House of Payne” and “The Haves and the Have Nots,” among others, were both created and directed by Perry. Also, he is the proprietor of Tyler Perry Studios, a sizable film and television production complex in Atlanta.

Why does Tyler Perry want to buy BET?

Perry revealed in an interview with TheGrio that he is interested in BET to give black producers, black actors and innovators greater opportunity. He thinks that having a TV network devoted to black content would enable him to support initiatives that might not otherwise be given a chance. Additionally, he indicated a desire to use his platform to highlight many perspectives and narratives from the black community.

Tyler Perry
BET Networks. (2023, March 4). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BET_Networks

Why does Tyler Perry want to buy BET?

According to Perry, who spoke with TheGrio, his interest in BET is driven by a desire to provide black producers and innovators greater opportunity. He thinks having a TV network devoted to black content would allow him to approve ideas that might not be given a chance elsewhere. He further indicated a desire to use his platform to highlight various perspectives and narratives from the black community.

What would this mean for black entertainment?

The future of black entertainment might be significantly impacted
if Tyler Perry were to acquire BET. For one, there would be one less major media company not owned or operated by a person of color. This might result in more representation and diversity within the sector. Furthermore, Perry has a track record of producing popular series and movies that appeal to black viewers. He could utilize his power to expand the possibilities for black entertainment if he had control over the BET schedule.

What are the potential drawbacks?

Although Tyler Perry may have excellent intentions, there are worries about what can occur if one individual has excessive power over a TV network. There might be concerns about the kinds of stories and who gets to tell them if Perry were to take exclusive ownership of BET. Some critics are also concerned that Perry’s entertainment may be too formulaic or limited to reflect the diversity of experiences within the black community accurately.

What happens next?

There currently needs to be a firm strategy for Tyler Perry to acquire BET. It is merely a notion in which he has shown interest. But he must be even thinking about it. It demonstrates that the black entertainment sector is hungry for more ownership and control. Whether or when Perry buys BET, his drive and vision may encourage others to set similar objectives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tyler Perry’s intention to acquire the BET TV network is risky and may have significant repercussions for the black entertainment industry. While worries about the negative effects are undoubtedly evident, there is also reason to think that Perry’s ownership may increase diversity and representation in the business. Only time will tell if this proposal is implemented, but it is something to watch out for shortly.

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