Today in Black History: November 13th

November 13, 2025

This article commemorates three significant African American figures in history connected to November 13th. James Thomas Rapier, born in 1837, served as a Reconstruction-era congressman who championed civil rights legislation and Black suffrage before organizing migration efforts to Kansas. Ebenezer D.

Who is affected

James Thomas Rapier (teacher, activist, congressman during Reconstruction)
Ebenezer D. Bassett (first African American diplomat)
June Carter Perry (U.S. Ambassador)
Black Americans seeking suffrage and civil rights during Reconstruction
Haitian refugees, including General Pierre Canal
Citizens of Lesotho and Sierra Leone
Black soldiers during the Civil War

What action is being taken

No explicit ongoing actions stated in the article.

Why it matters

These three figures represent critical milestones in African American achievement and diplomatic history. Rapier's congressional service during Reconstruction demonstrated Black political participation during a brief window of opportunity while advocating for foundational civil rights legislation. Bassett's appointment as the first African American diplomat established a precedent for Black representation in international relations and demonstrated competent leadership during challenging circumstances. Perry's ambassadorships showed continued progress in diversifying American diplomatic leadership while addressing crucial issues like health, education, and democracy in developing nations.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint