Once Upon A Time In Black History

In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh highlights the groundbreaking legacy of Marie Clark Taylor—a pioneering scientist who transformed how we understand plant growth. From her early curiosity in Pennsylvania to becoming the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. in botany from Fordham University, and later chairing the Botany Department at Howard University, Taylor broke barriers at every turn. Discover how her innovative teaching methods—and her early use of television in science education—helped bring learning to life for generations of students.   #MarieClarkTaylor #BlackHistory #WomenInSTEM #Botany #ScienceEducation #HiddenFigures #BlackExcellence #STEMEducation #AfricanAmericanHistory #EducationalInnovation #PlantScience #HistoryPodcast #WomenInScience #HowardUniversity #FordhamUniversity

In this episode, discover the story of Alfred L. Cralle, the brilliant mind behind the modern ice cream scoop. At a time when serving ice cream was messy and frustrating, Cralle’s clever invention in 1897 made it आसान, clean, and efficient with a simple one-handed mechanism. Despite facing barriers that prevented him from fully benefiting from his invention, his impact is still felt today in every scoop. Tune in for a sweet and inspiring story of creativity, perseverance, and innovation—and don’t forget to visit MulticulturalBookstore.com for more stories that bring history to life.   #BlackHistory #BlackInventors #AlfredCralle #IceCreamScoop #HiddenFigures #BlackExcellence #HistoryPodcast #STEMHistory #Innovation #DidYouKnow #Inventors #AfricanAmericanHistory #EverydayInventions #PodcastLife #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory      

In this inspiring episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh shares the remarkable story of Dr. Gladys Mae Brown West—a brilliant mathematician whose groundbreaking work helped shape the GPS technology we rely on every day. From her humble beginnings on a farm in rural Virginia to becoming a pioneering computer programmer for the U.S. military, Dr. West’s journey is one of perseverance, precision, and quiet excellence. Listeners will discover how her mathematical models of the Earth’s shape became essential to satellite navigation, even as her contributions went largely unrecognized for decades. This episode highlights not only Dr. West’s scientific achievements, but also her resilience in the face of limited opportunities, her lifelong commitment to education, and the legacy she leaves behind as one of the “hidden figures” of modern technology. Tune in to learn how one woman’s dedication to “getting it right” helped map the world—and continues to guide us today. Visit www.multiculturalbookstore.com for more stories that celebrate history, creativity, and innovation. Once Upon a Time in Black History—where stories of the past inspire the future.

In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh shares the extraordinary true story of Sarah Rector, a young girl whose life changed in ways no one could have imagined. Born in 1902 in what would become Oklahoma, Sarah was given land that many believed was worthless. But at just 11 years old, everything changed when oil was discovered beneath her property—transforming her into one of the wealthiest young people in America almost overnight. Sarah’s story is about more than sudden wealth. It reveals the complexities of race, identity, and opportunity in early 20th-century America, including the shocking moment when the government reclassified her race because of her fortune. Through triumph, challenge, and generosity, Sarah Rector’s life reminds us that value isn’t always visible on the surface—and that history is filled with stories that continue to inspire us today. Tune in for a powerful story of resilience, unexpected opportunity, and a legacy that still fascinates generations. Visit www.multiculturalbookstore.com to explore more inspiring stories celebrating multicultural voices and history. #SarahRector #BlackHistory #BlackHistoryMonth #AfricanAmericanHistory #HiddenFigures #RichestBlackGirl #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #HistoricalStories #InspiringHistory #MulticulturalBooks #BlackExcellence

Before Rosa Parks made history, a brave 15-year-old girl named Claudette Colvin refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama. In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh shares the powerful and often overlooked story of Claudette’s courageous stand in 1955 and how it helped lead to the court case that ended bus segregation. Discover how one young voice helped move the Civil Rights Movement forward. Visit www.multiculturalbookstore.com for books celebrating diverse history and inspiring stories. #ClaudetteColvin #BlackHistory #CivilRightsMovement #HiddenFigures #MontgomeryBusBoycott #BlackHistoryPodcast #WomensHistory #HistoryPodcast #JimCrow #EducationalPodcast

In this inspiring episode of Once Upon A Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh shares the remarkable life story of Andrew Jackson Beard—a formerly enslaved man whose brilliance and determination forever changed railroad safety. Born into slavery in Alabama, Beard taught himself multiple trades and became an inventor who refused to accept the dangers around him as “just the way things were.” After losing a leg in a devastating railroad accident, he transformed his personal tragedy into purpose by creating the revolutionary Jenny Coupler—an automatic railroad car-coupling device that saved countless lives and helped pave the way for the Federal Safety Appliance Act. Beard’s legacy lives on through safer railroads, groundbreaking innovation, and his induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame. This episode explores how perseverance, curiosity, and creativity can turn pain into protection—and how one person’s idea can impact generations.     #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #AndrewJacksonBeard #BlackInventors #BlackHistory #HiddenFigures #UnsungHeroes #AfricanAmericanHistory

In this episode of Once Upon A Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh explores the remarkable life of Granville Woods—a self-taught inventor whose brilliance helped transform railroad safety and modern communication. Born in 1856 during a time of extreme racial barriers, Granville Woods never let limited access to formal education stop him. Through curiosity, hands-on learning, and relentless experimentation, he became a pioneer in electrical and communication technology. His groundbreaking inventions allowed moving trains to communicate with one another and with stations, dramatically reducing accidents and improving efficiency. Often called “The Black Edison,” Woods earned more than 60 patents and fought tirelessly to receive credit for his work in the face of discrimination. From safer rail travel to advances in long-distance communication, his legacy still shapes the connected world we live in today. Tune in to learn how Granville Woods proved that innovation has no limits—and why his story still matters.   #GranvilleWoods #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackInventors #BlackHistory #STEMHistory

Born into slavery, Harriet refused to believe that her life was meant to be lived in chains. After escaping to freedom herself, she made a bold and dangerous choice: she went back. Again and again. As a conductor on the Underground Railroad, Harriet guided enslaved people through darkness, forests, rivers, and fear—using the North Star, secret songs, and unwavering faith to lead them to freedom. You will learn how Harriet carried out daring nighttime rescues, completed around 13 missions, and safely guided nearly 70 people to freedom—without ever losing a single passenger. We also explore her role during the Civil War, where she became the first woman in U.S. history to plan and lead an armed military rescue during the Combahee River Raid. This episode isn’t just about history—it’s about bravery, leadership, and believing in the power of one determined person to change the world. Harriet Tubman shows us that courage doesn’t mean being fearless; it means moving forward even when fear is present.     #HarrietTubman #UndergroundRailroad #FreedomFighter #AmericanHistory #BlackHistoryHeroes #AfricanAmericanHistory #CivilWarHistory #HiddenHistory #TrueHero #HistoryMatters  

In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, we explore the extraordinary life of Thomas Fuller, the enslaved West African man known as “The Virginia Calculator.” Kidnapped at 14 and denied any formal education, Fuller astonished everyone with his ability to perform massive calculations entirely in his mind. Abolitionists later tested him with enormous math problems to disprove racist beliefs about African intelligence. Fuller solved them instantly, even correcting the testers when they forgot to count leap years. His brilliance became undeniable evidence that genius is not limited by race, circumstance, or access to schooling. Join us as we honor Thomas Fuller’s legacy and celebrate his remarkable contribution to history. Find more stories at multiculturalbookstore.com.   #ThomasFuller #VirginiaCalculator #BlackHistory #AfricanGenius #HiddenFigures #MentalMath #AfricanHistory #BlackExcellence #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #HistoryPodcast #STEMHistory #AbolitionistHistory #MathematicalGenius #WestAfricanHistory #UnsungHeroes

In this episode of Once Upon A Time in Black History, Tamara Shiloh uncovers the story of Phillip Bell Downing — the African American inventor who transformed communication with his secure, weather-proof “street letter box.” Discover how a simple idea from a determined postal worker in the 1890s made sending mail safer, more accessible, and more reliable for everyone. Downing’s invention still stands on street corners today, quietly shaping how we connect. Tune in and be inspired by the brilliance behind the everyday blue mailbox.   #BlackHistory #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #PhillipDowning #BlackInventors #AfricanAmericanHistory #STEMHeroes #HiddenFigures #HistoryPodcast #InnovationHistory #PostalServiceHistory #EverydayInventors #19thCenturyHistory #UnsungHeroes #TamaraShiloh #EducationalPodcast  

In this episode of Once Upon A Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh shines a light on Valerie L. Thomas, the brilliant mind behind NASA’s “Illusion Transmitter” — a groundbreaking invention that paved the way for 3D imaging technology. From her childhood curiosity in Baltimore to becoming one of NASA’s most innovative scientists, Valerie’s journey is one of persistence, imagination, and quiet revolution. As one of the few women—and even fewer Black women—in physics during the 1960s, she not only helped translate satellite data into vital Earth imagery but also reimagined how humans could see and share information. Discover how Valerie’s creativity helped shape the world of imaging—on Earth and beyond—and how her legacy continues to inspire future generations of scientists and dreamers alike.   #ValerieThomas #BlackWomenInSTEM #NASA #3DImaging #STEMEducation #BlackHistory #WomenInScience #Innovation #IllusionTransmitter #TamaraShiloh #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory

In this episode, we celebrate the ingenuity of J.W. Smith—also known as Joseph H. Smith—the African-American inventor who transformed home gardening with the creation of the modern lawn sprinkler. In 1897, Smith patented the first rotary head lawn sprinkler, a simple yet revolutionary device that made watering lawns more efficient and accessible for homeowners and gardeners alike. Discover how Smith’s invention not only saved time, effort, and water but also became a staple in homes, parks, and gardens across America. Though much of his personal story remains untold, his innovation stands as a testament to the creativity and perseverance of Black inventors whose contributions continue to shape our everyday lives. 🎧 Tune in to learn how one man’s idea changed the way we care for our lawns—and helped make our communities greener, one invention at a time. #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #TamaraShiloh #BlackInventors #JWSmith #JosephHSmith #LawnSprinkler #Innovation #BlackHistory #STEM #InventionsThatMatter #UnsungHeroes

Before Central Park became the iconic green heart of New York City, a thriving community once stood there — Seneca Village, a settlement founded by free African Americans in the 1820s. In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh uncovers the story of this remarkable neighborhood — a place where Black families, along with Irish and German immigrants, built homes, churches, and schools, and created a safe, self-sustaining community in a time of deep racial inequality. Learn how Seneca Village gave its residents not only a home, but also the right to vote and a sense of dignity — until the city’s plan for Central Park brought it all to an end. Though erased for more than a century, the legacy of Seneca Village endures through the artifacts, stories, and memories that continue to resurface today. Join us as we rediscover this lost piece of history and honor the resilience of those who made Seneca Village a symbol of hope and self-determination. #BlackHistory #SenecaVillage #CentralPark #TamaraShiloh #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #HiddenHistory #NYCHistory

In this episode of Once Upon A Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh takes us back to the 1700s and the remarkable story of Fort Mose—America’s first legally sanctioned free Black settlement. Just north of St. Augustine, Florida, Fort Mose offered freedom, safety, and community to those who escaped slavery in the British colonies and found refuge under Spanish rule. Discover how formerly enslaved Africans built lives as free men and women, defended their settlement with courage during war, and left behind a legacy that challenges the very foundation of slavery in America. From its beginnings in 1738 to its rediscovery centuries later, Fort Mose stands as a testament to resilience, hope, and the enduring fight for freedom.     #FortMose #BlackHistory #AmericanHistory #AfricanAmericanHistory #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #TamaraShiloh #FirstFreeBlackSettlement #FloridaHistory #StAugustineHistory #SpanishFlorida #FreedomFighters #BlackMilitia #FranciscoMenendez #BloodyMose #HistoricFortMose #BlackHeritage #UntoldHistory #ResilienceAndHope #HiddenHistory #NationalHistoricLandmark

In this episode of Once Upon A Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh takes us into the world of space science with Dr. Patricia S. Cowings—the first African American woman trained as a scientist astronaut by NASA. Affectionately nicknamed the “Baroness of Barf,” Dr. Cowings revolutionized astronaut training by developing biofeedback techniques that helped astronauts conquer space motion sickness—one of the most dangerous challenges in orbit. From her upbringing in the Bronx to breaking barriers at NASA, Dr. Cowings’ journey is a story of brilliance, resilience, and determination. Discover how she turned skepticism into respect, opened doors for future scientists, and proved that education and perseverance can take you all the way to the stars. Join us as we celebrate the groundbreaking career of Patricia Cowings—scientist, pioneer, and trailblazer.

In this episode of Once Upon A Time in Black History, we travel to Savannah, Georgia, to uncover the story of the First African Baptist Church — one of the oldest continuously operating Black churches in North America. Founded in 1773 by George Liele and formally organized in 1788 under Andrew Bryan, the church stood as both a sanctuary of worship and a center of resistance. From serving as a stop on the Underground Railroad, to educating freed African Americans after emancipation, to hosting meetings during the Civil Rights Movement, its impact reaches far beyond its walls.

Meet Eugene Bullard — boxer, war hero, spy, and the world’s first African American military pilot. In this episode, we follow his incredible journey from the Jim Crow South to the skies over France during World War I. Nicknamed “The Black Swallow of Death,” Bullard defied racism, dodged bullets, and danced with legends in Jazz Age Paris — only to return to an America that refused to see his worth. Discover the remarkable, untold story of a man whose life embodied resilience, courage, and the unshakable pursuit of freedom.   #OnceUponATimeInBlackHistory #EugeneBullard #BlackSwallowOfDeath #UnsungHeroes #BlackHistoryPodcast #HiddenBlackHistory #HistoryUntold #BlackAviator #WWIHero #AfricanAmericanHistory #MilitaryHistory #WWIHistory #WWIIHistory #FrenchForeignLegion #TuskegeeBeforeTuskegee #JazzAgeParis #FrenchResistance #LearnBlackHistory #MulticulturalVoices #StorytellingPodcast #EducateToLiberate  

In this powerful episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh uncovers the extraordinary story of John Berry Meachum, a formerly enslaved man who defied racist laws to educate Black children in antebellum America. Born into slavery in 1789, Meachum purchased his freedom and became a preacher, carpenter, and educator in St. Louis, Missouri. When the state outlawed teaching Black people to read and write, Meachum refused to surrender. His ingenious solution? A Floating Freedom School—a steamboat classroom anchored in the Mississippi River, beyond the reach of oppressive laws. This is a story of resistance, ingenuity, and unshakable belief in liberation through education. Meachum’s legacy reminds us that freedom isn’t given—it’s fought for, built, and sometimes, it floats. Listen, learn, and be inspired by a man who turned a river into a pathway to freedom. 🔗 Visit Multicultural Bookstore for more stories of courage and resilience. #BlackHistory #FreedomSchool #EducationAsResistance

Born in 1886 in Lenox, Massachusetts, Van Der Zee’s journey began with a simple camera he won at age fourteen. That small gift would launch a lifetime of visual storytelling that documented the rise of Harlem during its cultural renaissance. From weddings and community events to portraits of icons like Marcus Garvey, Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, and Joe Louis, Van Der Zee’s images reflected elegance, dignity, and the vibrant pride of African American life. Though his fame dimmed in the 1950s, a major exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1969 brought him back into the spotlight, introducing his work to new generations. By the time of his passing in 1983 at the age of 96, James Van Der Zee had created a visual archive of Black life that remains essential to understanding 20th-century American culture. Join us as we explore the legacy of a man who turned every photograph into a work of pride, beauty, and resistance. Subscribe and discover more untold stories that shaped Black history. Now imagine that!

In this episode of Once Upon A Time in Black History, we plug into the vibrant, swinging world of Stuff Smith—jazz’s electrifying violinist. Born Hezekiah Leroy Gordon Smith in 1909, Stuff defied expectations and redefined what a violin could do in jazz. From his bluesy, high-energy solos to his pioneering use of electric amplification, Smith pushed boundaries and brought raw soul to a traditionally classical instrument.

In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh spotlights Florence Beatrice Price, the first African American woman to have a symphony performed by a major U.S. orchestra. Born in 1887 in Little Rock, Arkansas, Price overcame racism, sexism, and personal hardships to become a groundbreaking classical composer. Her music—rooted in African-American spirituals and European traditions—brought a fresh voice to the concert stage. Though long overlooked, her legacy is finally being rediscovered and celebrated worldwide. Join us as we uncover the powerful story behind Florence Price’s historic achievements and enduring impact on American music.

In today’s episode, we’re opening the Pantry of the Past to spotlight Hercules Posey, the first known White House chef. Enslaved by George Washington but celebrated for his culinary brilliance, Hercules wasn’t just a cook—he was a man of impeccable skill, style, and quiet resistance. From commanding the president’s kitchen in Philadelphia to making a bold escape for freedom, Hercules’ story is as complex as it is courageous. Join us as we explore the life of a man who helped shape America’s earliest presidential dinners—while living in the shadow of bondage.  

In the pre-dawn quiet of the U.S. Navy’s David Taylor Model Basin, a young Black woman sat behind a computer, quietly rewriting history. This is the story of Raye Montague—engineer, innovator, and a hidden figure whose brilliance transformed naval ship design. Born in Jim Crow-era Little Rock, Arkansas, Montague dreamed of becoming an engineer after glimpsing a World War II submarine at age seven. Denied access to engineering schools because of her race and gender, she taught herself the skills and broke through every barrier placed in her way. In just 18 hours, she produced the Navy’s first computer-generated ship draft—a task that previously took two years—and laid the groundwork for the FFG-7 frigate. Yet, her name remained in the shadows. In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, we honor Raye Montague’s extraordinary legacy, her quiet courage, and the bridges she built for generations to come.

Despite making major strides in tech, Black women remain underrepresented in STEM. Lisa Gelobter defied the odds—helping pioneer internet video, shaping the GIF, launching Hulu, and leading digital innovation in the Obama administration. In this episode, we explore her trailblazing journey and how she’s opening doors for the next generation in tech.

George Washington Williams turned experience into history. Soldier, preacher, politician, and pioneering historian — he was a man determined to tell the truth no matter the cost. Best known for exposing King Leopold II’s brutal reign in the Congo, Williams used his voice and pen to challenge injustice across the globe. But long before that, he was a 14-year-old boy lying about his age to fight in the Civil War. In this episode, we trace the extraordinary life of George Washington Williams — from the battlefields of the Civil War to the pulpits of America, from the halls of government to the heart of Africa. He was the first to write a thoroughly researched history of Black people in America, leaving behind works that shaped how we understand history today. His courage, curiosity, and commitment to truth still inspire us. And remember, you can find great Black history books at TheMulticulturalBookstore.com. Until next time...

Join host Tamara Shiloh as we uncover the remarkable story of James Hemings, a culinary pioneer whose influence on American cuisine has been largely overlooked. Born into slavery in 1765 and owned by Thomas Jefferson, James became a master of French cooking, training in Paris under elite chefs. He introduced iconic dishes like macaroni and cheese, crème brûlée, and French-style whipped potatoes to America. Despite his immense contributions, his name remained in the shadows for centuries. Tune in to discover how one man’s skills helped shape the flavors of a nation.

In this episode, we dive into the history of a small yet impactful invention—the house door letterbox. Before the convenience of secure mail slots, postal carriers had to knock and wait for someone to answer the door. But thanks to George Beckett, that all changed. Tune in to learn how this 19th-century innovation revolutionized mail delivery, reflecting broader societal changes and making communication more accessible for everyone.

In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, we explore the remarkable story of Joseph Richard Winters, the inventor whose fire escape innovations saved countless lives. From his early days in Virginia to his groundbreaking patents in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, Winters' legacy extends beyond firefighting—his work with the Underground Railroad and his ventures in politics paint a picture of a true trailblazer. Tune in as we uncover the man behind the ladder and the lasting impact of his contributions to safety and history.

Discover the inspiring story of Jane Matilda Bolin, the first Black woman judge in the U.S. Born in 1908, Jane overcame racial discrimination and societal barriers to graduate from Yale Law School and serve 40 years as a family court judge. A fierce advocate for children’s rights and racial justice, her legacy reshaped the legal system and paved the way for future generations. Join us as we celebrate her trailblazing life and enduring impact

A selfless pioneer in childcare and community support, Clara opened her Harlem home to infants born into the most challenging circumstances—children of mothers battling addiction and, later, those affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Discover how her love for children and unwavering dedication gave rise to Hale House, a haven that changed the lives of thousands. Clara’s story is a testament to the untapped potential of individuals transforming their communities through compassion and resilience.

Jan Ernst Matzeliger was a biracial Surinamese-American inventor whose automated lasting machine brought significant change to the manufacturing of shoes.

In this episode, discover the fascinating journey of Dr. George Franklin Grant, a trailblazing dentist, Harvard faculty member, and inventor of the first wooden golf tee. Learn how his passion for innovation and golf left a lasting mark on the sport. 

On today's episode of Once upon A Time In Black History we learn about George Crum, the man who invented the potato chip!

Marie Van Brittan Brown was an American nurse and innovator. In 1966, she invented a video home security system along with her husband Albert Brown, an electronics technician.

Elijah McCoy (May 2, 1844–October 10, 1929) was a Black American inventor who received more than 50 patents for his inventions during his lifetime. His most famous invention was a cup that feeds lubricating oil to machine bearings through a small tube. Machinists and engineers who wanted genuine McCoy lubricators might have used the expression "the real McCoy"—a term meaning "the real deal" or "the genuine article."

Join host Tamara Shiloh as she takes you on an inspiring journey into the life and legacy of Joseph Henry Douglass,  a groundbreaking African-American concert violinist and grandson of Frederick Douglass. This episode explores Douglass's rise to prominence,  from his early training at the New England Conservatory to his performances  at major events like the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. Learn about his historic contributions to American music, his trailblazing career as the first Black violinist to tour nationally and internationally, and his dedication to education as a professor at Howard University. Discover the broader context of Black instrumentalists' influence on American culture and hear about other virtuoso violinists of African descent, including George Augustus Polgreen Bridgetower and contemporary artist Tai Murray. Dive into the untold stories of Black excellence in music. Tune in to celebrate this rich legacy and find resources to continue your learning journey at multiculturalbookstore.com.

In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, we delve into the remarkable life and legacy of Carter G. Woodson, the man celebrated as the "Father of Black History." Born to formerly enslaved parents in 1875, Carter overcame incredible odds to become a Harvard-educated historian and a relentless advocate for African-American history and culture. Learn how his dedication gave rise to Negro History Week, which evolved into today's Black History Month, and discover how his work reshaped America's understanding of its past. Join us as we explore Carter's inspiring journey of perseverance, education, and justice—a story that continues to inspire and empower generations.

In this episode, we dive into the groundbreaking life and career of Oscar Devereaux Micheaux, a pioneering African-American filmmaker whose passion for storytelling broke Hollywood’s barriers. Micheaux’s debut film, The Homesteader (1919), captivated audiences with its honest portrayal of Black life and challenged societal norms on topics like race and religion. Through 44 films, Micheaux offered unfiltered perspectives on African-American experiences, free from the stereotypes of mainstream cinema. Join us as we explore how his works continue to shape the American cultural landscape, paving the way for future Black creatives in film.

Alice Allison Dunnigan was an American journalist, civil rights activist and author. Dunnigan was the first African-American female correspondent to receive White House credentials, and the first black female member of the Senate and House of Representatives press galleries.

In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, host Tamara Shiloh tells the remarkable story of Cathay Williams, a young woman who defied the odds to become the first documented African-American woman to serve in the U.S. Army. Born into slavery and conscripted by the Union Army as a cook during the Civil War, Williams later took the bold step of enlisting in the military under the alias William Cathay. Journey with us as we uncover her two years with the Buffalo Soldiers, the struggles she faced, and the powerful legacy she left behind.

Did you know Dumas was of mixed race? We trace his story from his father, General Thomas-Alexandre Dumas, the highest-ranking Black officer in a European army, to Alexandre’s prolific literary career in 19th-century France. Along the way, we uncover the challenges Dumas faced—racial prejudice, financial woes, and his notorious love life—and explore how his works of adventure, loyalty, and revenge continue to resonate today

In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, we delve into the incredible story of Ona Judge, an enslaved woman who made a daring escape from President George Washington’s household. Despite the harsh reality of slavery, Ona’s courage and determination led her to freedom, even in the face of relentless efforts to recapture her.

In this episode of Once Upon a Time in Black History, we explore the significance of the bicycle during the Jim Crow era and highlight the contributions of African American inventors like Matthew A. Cherry and Isaac R. Johnson. The bicycle symbolized freedom for Black Americans, and these inventors played a key role in advancing transportation technology. From Cherry’s velocipede improvements to Johnson’s foldable bicycle frame, their innovations shaped the cycling world and transportation at large. We also touch on Jerry Certain’s pioneering bicycle carriers, still used today by couriers worldwide.

In this episode of "Once Upon a Time in Black History," host Tamara Shiloh explores the history and legacy of "The Green Book." This essential travel guide provided African-American travelers with safe and welcoming locations during the Jim Crow era. Learn how Victor Hugo Green, a Harlem postal worker, created this powerful resource, and discover the resilience and resourcefulness of the Black community in the face of segregation. Join us as we delve into a crucial, often overlooked chapter of American history.

On this episode of Once Upon A Time In Black History, we'll explore the life of Lewis Latimer, an American inventor whose innovations significantly improved lightbulb filaments, air conditioning, and made notable contributions in other fields. Visit: https://www.multiculturalbookstore.com/

On this episode of Once Upon A Time In Black History, we'll explore the life of Joseph Douglas. He was a concert violinist and the grandson of abolitionist, Frederick Douglas.

On this episode of Once Upon a Time In Black History, we dive into the story of professional rodeo bull rider, Myrtis Dightman.

On this episode of Once upon a Time in Black History we learn about the movie Jingle Jangle as we get ready for the approaching Holidays.

On this episode of Once Upon A Time in Black History we will be learning about the first African American male pilots in the United States, David Harris & Marlon Green who paved the way for those to come.

In this episode of Once Upon A Time In Black History we learn about Bessie Coleman who was the first African American and Native American woman. to become a pilot!