Today in labor history: Zumbi, leader of community of freed slaves, beheaded
On this day in 1695, Zumbi dos Palmares, leader of a Brazilian state of freed slaves was beheaded by the Portuguese.
Today in labor history: George Washington says "no" to black recruits
In 1775, General George Washington prohibited recruiters from enlisting African Americans into the Patriot Army. However, African Americans served in some units and some segregated divisions were formed.
Today in Latino history: Slavery abolished in Cuba
Slavery was finally abolished in Cuba by Spanish royal decree that also made an indentured servitude system, known as "patronato," illegal.
Today in labor history: Nat Turner is born
Turner often conducted Baptist services, preaching the Bible to his fellow slaves, who dubbed him "The Prophet."
Today in labor history: Denmark Vesey arrested for slave revolt
On June 18, 1822, slave revolt leaders Denmark Vesey, Peter Poyas and others were arrested in South Carolina. Vesey was hailed as a hero by abolitionists during the Civil War, including Frederick Douglass.
Today in labor history: John Brown's raid on Harpers Ferry
Brown, a minister and fierce opponent of slavery, sought to obtain weapons from the arsenal to defeat the slaveocracy in the South. John Brown and his men were captured and executed.
