Black History Knowledge — September 15

What happened on this day. These are the September 15 moments in Black history worth knowing, remembering, and passing on.

1963 — The 16th Street Baptist Church is bombed in Birmingham

On September 15, 1963, Klansmen dynamited the 16th Street Baptist Church during Sunday services, murdering Addie Mae Collins, Cynthia Wesley, Carole Robertson, and Denise McNair as they prepared for youth day. The killing of four girls in church shocked the world and hardened the nation’s conscience toward the Civil Rights Act.

1963 — Two more Black children are killed in Birmingham that day

On September 15, 1963, hours after the church bombing, sixteen-year-old Johnny Robinson was shot in the back by a Birmingham police officer and thirteen-year-old Virgil Ware was shot dead by white teenagers as he rode on his brother’s bicycle handlebars. Their deaths brought the day’s toll to six Black children and are remembered alongside the four girls.

1965 — I Spy makes Bill Cosby the first Black lead of a network drama

On September 15, 1965, I Spy premiered on NBC with Bill Cosby starring opposite Robert Culp, the first Black actor to co-star as the lead of a network dramatic series. Cosby won three consecutive Emmys in the role, opening dramatic television to Black leading actors.

1978 — Muhammad Ali wins the heavyweight title a third time

On September 15, 1978, Muhammad Ali defeated Leon Spinks before a record crowd at the New Orleans Superdome to become the first three-time heavyweight champion in history. The victory completed the final great chapter of Ali’s boxing career.