Annapolis riot of 1919 facts for kids
| Part of Red Summer | |
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A photo taken in 1907 of the training ship USS Cumberland
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| Date | June 27, 1919 |
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| Location | Annapolis, Maryland, United States |
| Participants | United States Navy |
| Non-fatal injuries | 2 gun shot injuries |
The Annapolis riot of 1919 was a conflict that happened in Annapolis, Maryland. It took place very early on June 27, 1919, between midnight and 1 AM. The event involved African-American sailors from the United States Navy and local African-American residents of Annapolis.
Contents
What Happened in Annapolis?
The United States Naval Academy was built in 1845. It is located on land that was once Fort Severn, near the Severn River and the Chesapeake Bay. In the summer of 1919, about 40 African-American sailors were training there. These sailors, called "bluejackets," were mostly learning to be "mess attendants." This meant they would serve food and help officers on ships. They were assigned to the training ship USS Cumberland.
The Conflict Begins
These sailors had a conflict with about 80 local Black residents. It's important to note that no white people were involved in this particular event. The problems had actually started earlier, around July 22. On the night of June 27, the local Black community was waiting on Acton Lane. This street led from West Street. They were waiting for the Navy men, who were seen as the ones causing trouble.
The Fight and Its Aftermath
Some people involved in the fight had small firearms. There was also a lot of throwing of bricks and other objects. For a moment, it seemed like the conflict could become much bigger. Two people received minor injuries from firearms. Several windows were broken, and there was other small damage.
The Navy men realized they were outnumbered and left the area. A police officer who was nearby had difficulty arresting two men. These men were then given to the Navy authorities. The Navy sent a special military police unit, called a provost guard, into the city. They promised to investigate the incident fully. Because of this, the city police did not take further action.
Part of the Red Summer
The Annapolis riot is often considered part of the Red Summer of 1919. This was a time when many conflicts happened across the United States. However, the Annapolis event was different from most Red Summer riots. Usually, these riots involved white mobs attacking Black communities. For example, the New London Naval riots of 1919 were like this. The Annapolis riot was unique because it was a conflict between two groups within the Black community.
Images for kids
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A photo taken in 1907 of the training ship USS Cumberland
