Month: October 2023

What Happened On October 17th? The Prohibition Era Begins: A Nation Divided by Booze (1919) October 17th, 1919 marked a significant turning point in American history - the beginning of the Prohibition era. With the ratification of the 18th Amendment to the United States Constitution, the production, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages were banned, dividing the nation on the issue of alcohol consumption. This controversial measure was seen as a way to address the social problems associated with alcohol abuse, such as crime and poverty. However, the Prohibition era gave rise to unintended consequences. Underground speakeasies flourished, organized crime…

What Happened On October 15th? Founding of the Black Panther Party (1966) October 15th, 1966 witnessed the founding of the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense by Huey P. Newton and Bobby Seale in Oakland, California. The party emerged as a response to systemic racism and police brutality faced by African Americans during the civil rights movement. The Black Panthers advocated for social justice, equal rights, and self-defense for Black communities. Their iconic black berets, armed patrols, and community programs aimed at providing education, healthcare, and food made them a symbol of empowerment and resistance. The legacy of the Black Panther…

What Happened On October 12th? Columbus Arrives in the Americas (1492) On October 12th, 1492, the Italian explorer named Christopher Columbus, under the sponsorship of the Catholic Monarchs of Spain, made landfall in the Americas. This historic voyage, known as the "Columbian Exchange," forever changed the course of history by bridging the gap between Europe and the New World. Columbus' arrival marked the beginning of a new era of exploration and colonization, forever altering the history, culture, and demography of both continents. Although Columbus' arrival brought forth immense repercussions, it is crucial to recognize the devastating impact it had on…