Milestones in African American History
Celebrate the contributions African Americans have made throughout history and learn how Black and Brown people across America have helped shape, impact, and enrich the world in which we live in, because Black history is history.
Our Editor's Take
Milestones in African American History gives 60-second synopses of remarkable people of color. It's produced by Rider University's student-run radio station, 107.7 The Bronc WRRC-FM. Rider University's Center for Diversity and Inclusion underwrites the podcast. Students narrate the episodes and release them daily during Black History Month. They feature historical and current changemakers.
The accomplished individuals represent many industries. One episode of Milestones in African American History discusses Jack Leroy Cooper. He was the first Black American disc jockey and radio broadcaster. His achievements have particular significance for this podcast.
The Milestones in African American History podcast also reveres Marian Anderson. She was the first Black singer to perform in the White House and the Metropolitan Opera. Yet she wasn't permitted to sing at Constitution Hall. So, the Roosevelts helped her perform at the Lincoln Memorial instead. Her accolades include the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal.
Inventor Richard Bowie Spikes acquired 12 patents beginning in 1907. His inventions changed automobiles, beer kegs, bottle openers, trolley cars, and barber chairs. At age 84, he still had ideas. That's when he patented an automatic brake safety system. Marie Van Brittan Brown patented the first security system. with her husband. Brown's husband was an electrician, and she was a nurse, so they often worked different hours. She felt unsafe alone in Queens, NY. So, they designed a system with cameras, two-way microphones, peepholes, and alarm buttons. Modern-day alarm systems originated from their design.
The narrators honor several athletes, too. Willie Thrower was the first Black NFL quarterback when he joined the Chicago Bears in 1953. Willie O'Ree was the first Black NHL player for the Boston Bruins in 1958. In 1961, O'Ree became the first Black player to score a goal in the NHL.
The podcast also lauds Bryant Gumbel, who was the first Black person to host a network morning show. His achievements continue to remove boundaries for Black people. Milestones in African American History wants to amplify these historic legacies. It's informative, comprehensible, and inspirational. It helps ensure that Black history is part of everyone's education.
Episodes