Discover the untold story of the African Grove Theatre—the first Black-owned theater in the U.S., founded in 1821 by William Alexander Brown. Learn how it launched the career of Ira Aldridge, battled racism, and changed theater history before its mysterious destruction in 1824.

Across the U.S., thriving Black towns were built from hope, resilience, and freedom—only to be violently erased from history. In this emotional episode of History Facts, we revisit communities like Rosewood, Oscarville, Seneca Village, and Tulsa’s Greenwood District. You’ll hear survivor quotes, insights from historians, and true accounts of how these towns were destroyed—and why remembering them matters.

References:

• Rosewood Massacre – Wikipediaen.wikipedia.orgen.wikipedia.org

• Jessica Glenza, “Rosewood massacre a harrowing tale of racism and the road toward reparations,” The Guardian, Jan. 3, 2016theguardian.comtheguardian.com

• Oscarville, Georgia – Wikipediaen.wikipedia.org

• Patrick Phillips interview, “The 'Racial Cleansing' That Drove 1,100 Black Residents Out Of Forsyth County, Ga.,” NPR Fresh Air, Sept. 15, 2016npr.org

• Seneca Village, CPCRS (Center for the Preservation of Civil Rights Sites)cpcrs.upenn.educpcrs.upenn.edu

• Gracie Heim, “Before Central Park came Seneca Village,” Wilderness Society (blog)wilderness.orgwilderness.org

• Tulsa Race Massacre – Wikipediaen.wikipedia.org

• NPR coverage: “Survivors Of 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre Share Eyewitness Accounts,” May 2021npr.org

What do you guys know about the people who assisted in the Civil Rights Movement that are not in the history books? Please listen to find out!

In 1739, a brave leader named Cato led one of the largest slave uprisings in colonial America—the Stono Rebellion. Armed with stolen weapons and a dream of freedom, he and his fellow rebels marched toward Spanish Florida, leaving a lasting impact on U.S. history. Who was Cato? What led to the uprising? And how did it change the future of slavery in America? Join us on History Facts as we uncover this powerful story of resistance, courage, and the fight for liberation."

Listen now and discover a history they don’t teach in school!

Brooklyn Village was a lively "city within a city" for Black residents in Charlotte, NC, and even had its own version of Black Wall Street. Let's dive into how it all started and what led to its end.

Have you heard about the Readjuster and Fusion Parties? These groups focused on unity and shared interests, advocating for all people regardless of race. Join us as we dive into this fascinating chapter of history.

Join us on this gripping episode of "History Facts" as we delve into the life and legacy of Gabriel Prosser, an enslaved blacksmith whose audacious plan to overthrow slavery in 1800 Virginia marked a significant moment in American history. **I am now aware that I prmounced Henrico incorrectly. Sorry about that."

Black Wall Street Durham, NC was a successful, thriving Black community that provided economic freedom to Black people, despite segregation. Join us as we explore the vibrant history and enduring legacy of Durham's Black Wall Street, celebrating the achievements and contributions of African Americans in shaping the economic and cultural landscape of the city.