John Thomas Sets Track Records
The Impact of African Americans on March 29: Celebrating Black History
March 29th marks a significant day in Black history, with notable events and accomplishments that have helped shape our world. In this article, we delve into the most pivotal moments on this date, honoring the contributions of African Americans in civil rights, the arts, and sports.
Pearl Bailey: A Legendary Performer’s Birthday
On March 29, 1918, a legend was born in Newport News, Virginia. Pearl Mae Bailey was an African American actress and singer who became a prominent American entertainment figure. Best known for her Broadway performances and her unique singing voice, Bailey earned a Tony Award for her role in the 1968 musical “Hello, Dolly!” She also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1988 for her contributions to American culture.
John Thomas: Setting Records in Track and Field
John Curtis Thomas was an African American high jumper who broke multiple records and barriers in his field. On March 29, 1959, at the age of 17, Thomas set a world indoor record in high jump, leaping 7 feet, 2 inches. He went on to become the first man to clear 7 feet in high jump both indoors and outdoors. Thomas earned two Olympic bronze medals in 1960 and 1964 and was inducted into the National Track and Field Hall of Fame in 1985.
Civil Rights Movement: The Selma to Montgomery March
March 29, 1965, marked the successful conclusion of the Selma to Montgomery march, a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement. The march was organized by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., John Lewis, and other civil rights activists to protest African Americans’ systematic denial of voting rights. The 54-mile march began in Selma, Alabama, on March 21st and ended in Montgomery on March 25th. On March 29th, President Lyndon B. Johnson addressed a joint session of Congress, urging the passage of the Voting Rights Act. This act, passed later that year, helped dismantle legal barriers preventing African Americans from voting.
Conclusion:
As we reflect on these pivotal moments in Black history on March 29, let us remember the incredible achievements and sacrifices made by African Americans throughout history. The impact of these individuals and events has helped shape our world and promote equality, justice, and progress for all.
Bibliography:
- Johnson Publishing Company. (1968). Jet. Johnson Publishing Company.
- Jet. (1961). Johnson Publishing Company.
- Lupton, M. J. (2005). Pearl Bailey: A Bio-Bibliography. Greenwood Publishing Group.
- Schwartz, R. F. (2008). John Thomas: New England’s High-flying Pioneer. New England Track & Field Journal.
- Williams, J. (2015). This Day in Civil Rights History: March 29, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson Addresses Joint Session of Congress on Voting Rights. The Root. Retrieved from https://www.theroot.com/this-day-in-civil-rights-history-march-29-1965-presid-1790859271
