Joseph Wiley (“Jefferson Street Joe”) Gilliam Jr. (1950-2000)

Joseph Wiley Gilliam Jr. was a professional football quarterback in the National Football League (NFL). Gilliam was born on December 29, 1950, to Joseph Gilliam Sr. and Ruth Gilliam in Charleston, West Virginia. The family moved to Nashville, Tennessee where he attended Pearl High School … Read MoreJoseph Wiley (“Jefferson Street Joe”) Gilliam Jr. (1950-2000)

Colored Farmers’ National Alliance and Cooperative Union (1886-1891)

The Colored Farmers’ National Alliance and Cooperative Union was established by a small group of Black farmers on December 11, 1886, in Houston County, Texas. The Colored Alliance was established because the Southern Farmers’ Alliance barred Blacks from joining their organization due to their race. … Read MoreColored Farmers’ National Alliance and Cooperative Union (1886-1891)

George F. Bowles (1844-1899)

George F. Bowles, born enslaved in 1844 in Charleston, South Carolina, was one of the most prominent figures in Reconstruction and post-Reconstruction era Mississippi. He was a lawyer, newspaper editor, politician, and businessman. His early life remains somewhat unclear, with conflicting accounts of his parent’s … Read MoreGeorge F. Bowles (1844-1899)