Afro-American Sentinel facts for kids
The Afro-American Sentinel was an important newspaper published in Omaha, Nebraska. It started in 1893 and continued until 1899. The newspaper focused on news and issues important to the Black community in Nebraska. It strongly supported the idea of self-defense against unfair violence and reported on how much unfair treatment people faced in the city.
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About the Newspaper
The Afro-American Sentinel began in 1893 in Omaha, Nebraska. Its main goal was to share news and stories about the Black community in Nebraska. It covered social events, personal news, and updates from churches.
Who Ran the Paper?
Cyrus D. Bell was the editor and owner of the Afro-American Sentinel. At that time, he was the only Black person to publish a newspaper in the entire state of Nebraska. He used his newspaper to encourage discussions and meetings about race relations. He wanted people to share their experiences and help each other succeed.
What Did the Paper Cover?
The newspaper reported on many different topics. It was especially active during the Trans-Mississippi Exposition in 1898, a big fair held in Omaha. The paper also looked into how businesses in Omaha, like hotels, treated African Americans unfairly.
The Afro-American Sentinel was not afraid to speak its mind. It disagreed with some leaders, like Booker T. Washington, who believed in a different approach to racial harmony.
Standing Up for Rights
The newspaper strongly believed in self-defense. It argued that the only way to stop unfair violence was to show that people would fight back. They wrote that Black people should be ready to protect themselves. The paper praised those who used force to defend themselves.
For example, in 1897, a group of Black people in Florida bravely stood up to prevent an act of violence. The Afro-American Sentinel celebrated their actions. They encouraged others to follow this example, saying it would help stop such violence.
When Did It End?
The Afro-American Sentinel newspaper stopped publishing in 1899.
