Nature writer Rachel Carson writes a groundbreaking book, “Silent Spring”, in Silver Spring. Praised by scientists but loudly condemned by chemical producers, the book not only leads to the banning of DDT in 1987 but also is an important contributor to the creation of Earth Day and President’s Nixon’s establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency.
Eubie Blake creates a landmark in the history of Broadway musical theatre in 1921. Blake teams up with Noble Sissle to launch the first All African American Broadway production, Shuffle Along, which runs for 504 performances. President Reagan presents Eubie Blake with a national award.
Methodist Preacher Charles Albert Tindley, born in Berlin, Maryland, publishes over 50 hymns including “We Shall Overcome” in 1900 and “Stand By Me.”
William Dorsey Swann, born enslaved in Hancock, becomes America’s first drag queen, sponsoring “drag balls” in DC. He is arrested in 1896 and serves 10 months in jail.
We acknowledge the enduring presence of many American Indian tribes who once lived in Maryland and who now, having lost their lands, live in a diaspora. Read more.
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