Black History Knowledge — May 13

What happened on this day. These are the May 13 moments in Black history worth knowing, remembering, and passing on.

May 13, 1862 — Robert Smalls commandeers the CSS Planter

Category: Civil War / Self-Emancipation / Military History / Black Courage

Robert Smalls and a Black crew commandeered the Confederate steamer Planter in Charleston and delivered it to Union forces.

Why it matters: This is one of the strongest May 13 events. It is self-emancipation, strategy, courage, military intelligence, and family liberation in one story.

May 13, 1891 — Isaac Burns Murphy becomes the first three-time Kentucky Derby winner

Category: Sports / Horse Racing / Black Athletic Firsts

Isaac Burns Murphy became the first jockey to win the Kentucky Derby three times.

Why it matters: His story reminds us that Black jockeys were central to early American horse racing before being pushed out by racism.

May 13, 1985 — Philadelphia police bomb MOVE

Category: State Violence / Black Liberation / Philadelphia History

Philadelphia police dropped a bomb on the MOVE organization’s home, killing 11 people, including five children, and destroying more than 60 homes.

Why it matters: This is one of the heaviest modern Black American history entries in May. It must be handled with care, weight, and clarity.