(Editor) Tiffany Harte

The Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution laid the foundation for the United States. Georgia’s founding fathers, Button Gwinnett, Lyman Hall, George Walton, Abraham Baldwin, and William Few, played crucial roles in supporting and ratifying these documents, impacting both national and state history. Their contributions to independence, public education and governance in Georgia remain significant as the nation celebrates 248 years of democracy.

Explore Elizabeth McDuffie’s journey from personal cook and maid for the Inman family and President Franklin Roosevelt to a civil rights advocate. Known for her ambition, she was considered for the role of Mammy in “Gone with the Wind.” Despite not getting the role, McDuffie championed equal rights and workers’ rights for African Americans.

American barbecue’s origins are deeply rooted in Black and Indigenous American culinary traditions. Indigenous peoples used open fire pits for cooking for over 10,000 years, and the term “barbecue” evolved from the Taino and West African words “brabacot” and “babbake.” Despite modern associations with suburban men, barbecue spread across the U.S. through migration and has diverse regional styles.

The Lost Friends Database compiles ads from the Southwestern Christian Advocate newspaper, where African Americans searched for family members separated by the domestic slave trade. Including ads referencing Atlanta, this database highlights the city’s role in this period. These ads provide a poignant glimpse into personal stories of separation and efforts to reconnect families.

Explore the rich heritage of African American cuisine, from the enduring traditions of West African dishes to the culinary innovations of enslaved chefs like James Hemings. Learn how iconic foods like cala, macaroni and cheese, and bean pie symbolize resilience, cultural preservation, and the profound impact of Black chefs on American culinary history, celebrated through generations.

Explore the gripping tale of Lily May Peel Futrelle, an Atlanta-based writer whose firsthand experiences aboard the Titanic offer a unique perspective on the ship’s infamous sinking. Her account challenged established historical narratives and revealed crucial yet overlooked information about the disaster.

Dexter Scott King, the youngest son of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., passed away after battling prostate cancer. A dedicated civil rights activist, he carried on his family’s legacy, advocating for nonviolence, social justice, and animal rights. King’s life work emphasized compassion and equality, reflecting his deep commitment to his parents’ vision.

Rabbi Jacob M. Rothschild, a prominent figure in the civil rights movement, used his position at Atlanta’s The Temple to champion racial integration and nonviolent resistance. Ordained in 1936, he became a vocal advocate against segregation and for school desegregation. His close associations with civil rights leaders, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and his response to the 1958 bombing of The Temple, reinforced his commitment to social justice. His legacy continues through The Temple’s ongoing efforts in social justice and interfaith collaboration.

George “Ed” Merritt’s life encapsulates a journey from the racial violence of early 20th century Georgia to becoming a local civil rights champion in Buford. Born in 1913, after his family fled racial terror in Forsyth County, Merritt served in the U.S. Army during World War II and later became a community leader. His political career peaked when he was elected to the Buford School Board in 1973, reflecting the broader struggle for civil rights in Georgia. Merritt’s legacy, highlighted by his advocacy for voting and education, endures in Buford, where a street now bears his name.

The evolution of Black women’s fashion reflects a journey of resilience and expression. Beginning during enslavement with enforced dress codes, Black women used fashion as a form of rebellion, showcasing their identity through headwraps and vibrant fabrics. Post-emancipation, they influenced trends as skilled seamstresses and embraced popular styles. The 20th century saw fashion align with social movements, from dignified “Sunday’s Best” in the civil rights era to natural hair as a symbol of protest during the Black Power Movement. This enduring legacy highlights the creativity and adaptability of Black women in fashion.

The Christmas card tradition began in 1843 in Victorian England by Sir Henry Cole and evolved in America with Louis Prang’s designs in 1873. The Haverty family of Atlanta exemplified the mid-20th century trend of personalized cards. Today, Christmas cards, more diverse and accessible, continue to connect loved ones during the holidays.

Karl Allquist was diagnosed with HIV in 1989. He kept a journal documenting his life with HIV from 1989-1991. Karl died in 1992 from HIV/AIDs related complications. In 2004, Atlanta History Center interviewed Karl’s surviving partner, William “Bill” Penn. From Karl’s journal and Bill’s recounting of their relationship, we have a glimpse into life with HIV/AIDS in the 1980s.

Maynard Jackson made history 50 years ago as Atlanta’s first Black mayor, bringing transformative change at just 35. His passion for civil rights and economic fairness opened doors for minorities in city contracts. Jackson’s leadership helped create a more inclusive Atlanta, a legacy that lives on today.