December 5
Nelson Mandela Dies
On December 5, 2013, Nelson Mandela died at his home in Johannesburg, South Africa. World leaders and millions of people worldwide mourned his passing. His memorial service at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg was attended by nearly 100 heads of state.
Little Richard Born
Born December 5, 1932, Richard Wayne Penniman (Little Richard) was one of the architects of rock and roll. His explosive energy, flamboyant style, and hits like "Tutti Frutti" and "Long Tall Sally" influenced the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Prince, and countless others.
Phillis Wheatley Dies
On December 5, 1784, Phillis Wheatley died in poverty in Boston. Despite her extraordinary literary achievement as the first published African American poet, she spent her final years in obscurity after being freed from slavery.
Montgomery Bus Boycott
A political and social protest against racial segregation on public buses.