Today In Black History
Jean Baptiste DuSable: The Founder of Chicago
Issue #443 Black History Wednesday, December 20, 2023
Welcome to this Today in Black History post. Black History IS American History, no matter how hard some people try to erase our history and contributions.
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Today’s Black WOW!
The founder of Chicago, Jean Baptiste DuSable, was born in Haiti in 1745. There, he received a quality education and learned various trade skills, such as carpentry and blacksmithing.
The name "Chicago" comes from the indigenous Miami-Illinois language. It derives from the word "shikaakwa," which means "wild leek" or "onion."
In the late 1770s, DuSable traveled to the Great Lakes region and built a trading post, establishing connections with local Native Americans. DuSable's settlement became a vital hub for fur trading, attracting traders from around the region and Europe.
His fair treatment of the Indigenous people and his commitment to mutual respect made him highly regarded among the Natives and the Europeans.
DuSable's settlement welcomed traders, explorers, and settlers from all walks of life. People from different backgrounds came together to share their skills, culture, and knowledge.
However, it was not until the 20th century that DuSable’s contributions were truly recognized and celebrated. In 1968, Chicago established the DuSable Museum of African American History in his honor. The museum not only preserves his legacy but also highlights African Americans' rich history and achievements throughout the United States.
Today In Black History
- In 1860, South Carolina became the first state to secede from the Union.
- In 1870, Robert H. Wood was elected mayor of Natchez, Mississippi.
- In 1870, Jefferson F. Long of Macon, Georgia, was elected to an unexpired term.
- In 1893, Georgia approved the first state anti-lynching statute.
- In 1956, African Americans in Montgomery, Alabama, voted unanimously to end the 365-day bus boycott.
- In 1974, Ethiopia became a socialist one-party state.
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