On November 10, 1898, Wilmington, North Carolina, witnessed one of the most violent and infamous events in U.S. history: a coordinated assault by a mob of approximately 2,000 white supremacists on the city’s Black community. This attack, later known as the “Wilmington Coup,” resulted in the deaths of numerous African Americans, the burning of Black-owned businesses, and the forced resignation of city leaders at gunpoint. The mob then installed their own government, marking the only successful coup d’état on U.S. soil. This event not only reshaped Wilmington’s political landscape but also sent shockwaves throughout the nation, revealing the violent lengths to which groups would go to undermine African American progress and civil rights.
Other Notable Events on November 10:
– 1775: The United States Marine Corps was founded when the Second Continental Congress authorized two battalions to serve as naval infantry during the Revolutionary War. Since then, the Marine Corps has grown to become a leading force in U.S. military operations worldwide, known for its motto “Semper Fidelis” (Always Faithful). Today, Marines are recognized for their versatility, strength, and elite status in combat.
– 1954: The U.S. Marine Corps Memorial was dedicated by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in Arlington, Virginia. The statue, depicting the iconic flag-raising on Iwo Jima during World War II, stands as a powerful symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and national pride. It honors the valor of Marines and is a lasting tribute to all who served in the Marine Corps.
– 1969: “Sesame Street,” the groundbreaking educational children’s program, debuted on National Educational Television, now PBS. Created to provide early learning opportunities to young children, especially those from underserved communities, the show revolutionized educational television. Its success spurred a new era of children’s programming focused on social and cognitive development, influencing generations globally.
– 1975: The freighter SS Edmund Fitzgerald sank during a violent storm on Lake Superior, claiming the lives of all 29 crew members. The tragedy became one of the most notable shipwrecks in Great Lakes history, symbolizing the perilous conditions faced by Great Lakes sailors. Gordon Lightfoot’s song “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” immortalized the event, keeping the memory of the crew’s bravery alive.
– 2019: Bolivian President Evo Morales resigned following weeks of massive protests and allegations of election fraud in Bolivia’s recent general election. Morales, Bolivia’s first Indigenous president, faced mounting opposition as claims of voting irregularities emerged. His resignation marked a critical juncture for Bolivia, raising questions about political stability and the integrity of democratic institutions in Latin America.
Today in History: December 5
Today in History: December 5:
On December 5, 1848, President James K. Polk sparked the Gold Rush of ’49 by confirming that gold had been discovered in California.
In 1933, national Prohibition came to an end as the 21st Amendment to the Constitution was ratified, thus repealing the 18th Amendment.
In 1952, the Great Smog of London descended on the British capital; the unusually thick fog, which contained toxic pollutants
Today in History: December 4
Today in History: December 4:
On Dec. 4, 1991, after being abducted and held for nearly seven years as a hostage by Hezbollah militants in Lebanon,Terry Anderson was released from captivity.
In 1783, Gen. George Washington bade farewell to his Continental Army officers at Fraunces Tavern in New York.
In 1969, Fred Hampton and Mark Clark of the Black Panther Party were shot and killed during a raid by Chicago police.
Today in History: December 3
Excerpts:Today in History: December 3:
In 1947, the Tennessee Williams play “A Streetcar Named Desire” opened on Broadway.
In 2015, Defense Secretary Ash Carter ordered the armed services to open all military jobs to women.
Today in History: December 2
Today in History: December 2:
In 1804, Napoleon crowned himself emperor of France in a coronation ceremony at Notre Dame de Paris cathedral.
In 2018, Israeli police recommended indicting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on bribery charges, adding to a growing collection of legal troubles for the longtime leader.