October 16
Tommie Smith and John Carlos Raise Fists
On October 16, 1968, American sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their black-gloved fists during the national anthem on the medal stand. Australian silver medalist Peter Norman wore an Olympic Project for Human Rights badge in solidarity. Smith and Carlos were expelled from the Games.
Desmond Tutu Wins Nobel Peace Prize
On October 16, 1984, Desmond Tutu received the Nobel Peace Prize for his role as a unifying leader in the campaign to end apartheid in South Africa. He later chaired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
Million Man March
On October 16, 1995, the Million Man March brought an estimated 400,000 to over 1 million Black men to the National Mall. Organized by Minister Louis Farrakhan and former NAACP executive director Benjamin Chavis, the march called for Black men to take responsibility for their communities and to register to vote.
Wole Soyinka Wins Nobel Prize
On October 16, 1986, the Swedish Academy awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature to Wole Soyinka, making him the first African writer to receive the honor. His plays, novels, and poems explore themes of colonialism, power, and the human condition.
André Leon Talley Born
Born October 16, 1948, André Leon Talley was one of the most important figures in fashion journalism. As editor-at-large of Vogue, he was one of the few prominent African Americans in the fashion industry's highest echelons. He championed Black designers and models throughout his career.
John Brown's Raid on Harpers Ferry
An attempt by abolitionist John Brown to initiate an armed slave revolt.