November 1
Imhotep Designs the Step Pyramid
Imhotep served as chancellor, physician, and architect to Pharaoh Djoser. He designed the Step Pyramid at Saqqara, the earliest large-scale stone construction in history, revolutionizing architecture. He was also recognized as a pioneer of medicine, and centuries later was deified by both Egyptians and Greeks, who identified him with Asclepius, their god of healing.
John H. Johnson Founded Johnson Publishing
On November 1, 1942, John H. Johnson launched Negro Digest from his mother's kitchen table. He later founded Ebony (1945) and Jet (1951) magazines, which became essential chroniclers of African American life, culture, and achievement. He became the first African American on the Forbes 400 list.
First African Free School Opens
On November 1, 1787, the New York Manumission Society established the African Free School to educate children of enslaved and free Black people. Notable graduates included James McCune Smith, the first African American to earn a medical degree, and Ira Aldridge, a celebrated Shakespearean actor.
Ebony Magazine First Published
On November 1, 1945, John H. Johnson published the first issue of Ebony magazine. Modeled after Life magazine, Ebony showcased Black achievement, culture, and beauty. It reached a peak circulation of over 2 million and became essential reading in African American households.
Niagara Movement Founded
In November 1905, W.E.B. Du Bois and a group of African American intellectuals and activists gathered to form the Niagara Movement, demanding an end to racial discrimination and full civil and political rights for Black Americans. The movement was a forerunner to the NAACP, which was founded in 1909.
Death of Dr. John Henry Thompson
John Henry Thompson, known for his contributions to computer graphics, passed away.
Release of 'The Autobiography of Malcolm X'
The influential book detailing the life of Malcolm X, co-authored by Alex Haley, was published.