This Week In Black History…Week of May 13-19

Week of May 13-19
May 13
1865—The last battle of the Civil war ends. Ironically, it appears the Confederate troops won the battle at Palmetto Ranch, Texas. However, it was the actions and bravery of the 62nd Regiment of United States Colored Troops that prevented the defeat from turning into a rout. The Confederates had actually underestimated the fighting prowess of the Blacks, assuming they would run in fear when the fighting began. Instead, what occurred was the rapid defeat of two White regiments but the Black soldiers of the 62nd held firm. The Confederates would later surrender.

1950—Singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder is born Steveland Judkins in Saginaw, Mich. Wonder has recorded 30 Top 10 hits and has won 24 Grammy awards—a record for any living artist.