August 28
Alex Trebek Features Black History on Jeopardy
On August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to more than 250,000 people. The speech is widely considered one of the greatest in American history and helped build support for the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Emmett Till Murdered
On August 28, 1955, Emmett Till, a 14-year-old from Chicago visiting relatives in Mississippi, was brutally murdered after being accused of whistling at a white woman. His mother's decision to hold an open-casket funeral shocked the nation and helped catalyze the civil rights movement.
March on Washington
The March on Washington on August 28, 1963, was one of the largest political rallies for human rights in United States history. Organized by A. Philip Randolph and Bayard Rustin, the march demanded civil and economic rights for African Americans. Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech became one of the most iconic addresses in American history.
Chadwick Boseman Dies
On August 28, 2020, Chadwick Boseman died after a private four-year battle with colon cancer. His portrayal of T'Challa in "Black Panther" (2018) was a cultural landmark — the first major Black superhero film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, grossing over $1.3 billion worldwide. He also portrayed Jackie Robinson, James Brown, and Thurgood Marshall.
Canada Abolishes Slavery
On August 28, 1833, the Slavery Abolition Act received Royal Assent, freeing approximately 800,000 enslaved people across the British Empire. Canada became a refuge for thousands of African Americans who escaped slavery via the Underground Railroad.
March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom
A significant march advocating for civil rights and economic justice took place.
The March on Washington
A large rally for civil and economic rights for African Americans.