Black History Knowledge — August 24

What happened on this day. These are the August 24 moments in Black history worth knowing, remembering, and passing on.

1969 — Harlem Cultural Festival concludes in Mount Morris Park

On Aug 24, 1969, the Harlem Cultural Festival concluded its six-Sunday run in New York’s Mount Morris Park. Nearly 300,000 people attended the free concert series, which celebrated Black music, culture, and pride with performers including Nina Simone, Stevie Wonder, Mahalia Jackson, and Sly and the Family Stone.

1950 — Edith Sampson is appointed to represent the United States at the United Nations

On Aug 24, 1950, President Harry S. Truman appointed Chicago lawyer Edith Sampson as an alternate United States delegate to the United Nations. She became the first Black person to officially represent the nation at the UN and used the role to speak on civil rights and international cooperation.

2008 — United States “Redeem Team” wins Olympic basketball gold

On Aug 24, 2008, the United States men’s basketball team defeated Spain 118–107 in the Beijing Olympic final. Led by a roster of Black stars including Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Carmelo Anthony, the “Redeem Team” restored the United States to the top of Olympic basketball.