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Sat, 07.14.1888

The Indianapolis Freeman Newspaper is Published

*The Indianapolis Freeman, first published on this date in 1888. It was the first illustrated Black newspaper in the United States.   

Founded by Edward Elder Cooper in Indianapolis, Indiana, the paper was sold to George L. Knox in 1892; Knox shifted the paper's political allegiance from Democratic to Republican. The paper frequently featured the writings of Richard W. Thompson, who was managing editor from 1888 to 1893. However, the paper would shift toward the Democratic Party again in its final days due to the power of the Ku Klux Klan over the Indiana Republican Party.

It was circulated nationally and considered by many to be the leading Black newspaper in America. Hurt by the Depression and competition from the Indianapolis Recorder, the paper ceased publication in 1926.  

New Poem Each Day

Poetry Corner

In fragrant Dixie's arms Christ came down in flames, A smoke-smile on his lips And black of face Before the furtive, nail pierced can And up-thrust beam Broke charcoal thorns Across his brow. The gloried ashes rose And... CHURCH BURNING: MISSISSIPPI by James Emanuel.
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