The wait is over—the new BlackPast.org is officially live! We’ve redesigned our site to bring you a modern, user-friendly experience that makes exploring Black history easier and more engaging than ever.

BlackPast is dedicated to providing reliable information on the history of Black people across the globe, and especially in North America. Our goal is to promote greater understanding of our common human experience through knowledge of the diversity of the Black experience and the ubiquity of the global Black presence. Welcome to the largest online encyclopedia on African American and Global African history on the Internet.

On October 16, 1995, hundreds of thousands of African American men gathered on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., for the Million Man March, organized by Louis Farrakhan of the Nation of Islam, to promote unity, responsibility, and social justice. The event became a landmark moment in modern Black history. Click “Learn More” to explore the full story.

Born in 1874 aboard a Portuguese ship in the Puget Sound region, Julia Jacobs was adopted by Suquamish leaders and became a guardian of the Lushootseed language and traditions during an era of assimilation. Many descendants of the Suquamish today trace their heritage to her. Visit the Julia Jacobs BlackPast entry to explore her story and watch the Urbanist Media video feature highlighting her lasting legacy.

This editorial page is part of an ongoing effort to present the ideas and opinions of individuals both within and beyond BlackPast.org that address the pressing issues and challenges facing African Americans and people of African Ancestry around the world, which are rooted in their historical experiences.

Discover the rich and inspiring stories of Black history through our interactive timeline, highlighting key moments and figures that have shaped our world. Dive in and explore how history connects to the present and inspires the future!

Africa’s capitals are full of life, history, and culture. From the energy of Lagos to the charm of Cairo, each city has its own story to tell. Discover what makes these places special on our African Capitals page.