• Legacy Makers: Stories of Black Inventors and Icons

  • By: Toni Davis
  • Podcast

Legacy Makers: Stories of Black Inventors and Icons cover art

Legacy Makers: Stories of Black Inventors and Icons

By: Toni Davis
Listen for free

  • Summary

  • "Legacy Maker: Stories of Black Inventors and Icons" is dedicated to celebrating the groundbreaking achievements and enduring legacies of Black innovators and cultural icons. Through compelling storytelling, our podcast shines a spotlight on the brilliance and resilience of individuals who have shaped history and continue to inspire future generations. Join us as we uncover the untold stories and celebrate the rich heritage that fuels progress and empowerment.
    2024
    Show More Show Less
Episodes
  • 1: Echoes of Liberation: Celebrating Juneteenth

    1: Echoes of Liberation: Celebrating Juneteenth
    Jun 19 2024
    Date: June 19, 2024 Legacy Makers: Stories of Black Inventors and Icons Title and Show Info Episode #1. Echoes of Liberation: Celebrating Juneteenth Featuring: Toni Davis (Host & Storyteller). Summary In this episode of "Echoes of Liberation: Celebrating Juneteenth," we journey through the poignant tale of Elijah, a young, enslaved boy in Galveston, Texas, who discovers the transformative power of knowledge amidst the brutal realities of bondage. The story captures Elijah’s clandestine quest for literacy, symbolizing a profound act of resistance and a silent rebellion against the oppressive structures of slavery. His journey reflects the universal longing for freedom and the unyielding human spirit's resilience. Set against the backdrop of the American South's harsh plantation life, Elijah's story culminates with the historic arrival of Union soldiers on June 19, 1865, marking the true end of slavery in Texas and the beginning of a new era of liberation celebrated as Juneteenth. Fast forward to the present, where his descendant, also named Elijah, honors this legacy by participating in Juneteenth celebrations in Washington, D.C. This contemporary narrative intertwines with his ancestor's past, highlighting how the struggles and triumphs of those who fought for freedom continue to resonate through generations. The episode underscores Juneteenth not only as a celebration of emancipation but also as a powerful reminder of the ongoing pursuit for equality and justice. It calls on us to reflect on the enduring legacy of those who dared to dream of freedom and to carry forward their spirit of resistance and hope into the future. Highlights: 01:00- INTRO. AMERICAN SOUTH. GALVESTON, TEXAS PLANTATION. 01:27- ELIJAH WHITAKER. 9-YEAR-OLD, YOUNG SLAVE BOY. 01:51- ELIJAH LEARNS TO READ. 04:27- THE EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION RUMOR. 06:52- ELIJAH FLEES THE PLANTATION. 07:30- BAND OF ESCAPED SLAVES. 07:53- AMBUSHED. 09:03- ELIJAH IS RETURNED TO HIS MASTER. 09:31- ELIJAH WHIPPED BY THE OVERSEER. 10:01- ARRIVAL OF UNION TROOPS. 10:42- LIBERATION. 14:03- ALARM SOUNDS. PRESENT DAY: D.C. JUNETEENTH. 14:06- ELIJAH JOHNSON WAKES FROM VIVID DREAM. 17:22- JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION. Subscribe to the podcast. Links to additional resources: "Colored Troops under General Wild, liberating slaves in North Carolina" · SHEC: Resources for Teachers (cuny.edu) Juneteenth | American Battlefield Trust (battlefields.org) What Is Juneteenth? Information for Kids and Families - Boys & Girls Clubs of America (bgca.org) Juneteenth — HHRCMAINE We Honor the History of Juneteenth - Astraea Lesbian Foundation For Justice (astraeafoundation.org) The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth | National Museum of African American History and Culture (si.edu) Juneteenth | National Museum of African American History and Culture (si.edu) Juneteenth World Wide Celebration Juneteenth: The History of a Holiday - The New York Times (nytimes.com) What Is Juneteenth? | HISTORY Juneteenth | GovInfo Juneteenth National Independence Day - NPS Commemorations and Celebrations (U.S. National Park Service) What is Juneteenth? The 156-year-old holiday, explained. - Vox A Proclamation on Juneteenth Day of Observance, 2021 | The White House Juneteenth: Freedom Day (turing.edu) More than a Day Off: Commit to Creating an Organizational Culture of Belonging this Juneteenth - Social Current (social-current.org) What Is Juneteenth? African American History Blog | The African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross (pbs.org) R44865.pdf (fas.org) Juneteenth | History, Meaning, Flag, Importance, & Facts | Britannica What is Juneteenth? A look at how it became a federal holiday | AP News Juneteenth | Town of Cary (carync.gov) This Juneteenth, Celebrate Freedom Day at an Interior site | U.S. Department of the Interior (doi.gov) Juneteenth | NAACP Juneteenth is a new federal holiday but has long been celebrated : NPR Meaningful Juneteenth Celebration Ideas for the Workplace (indeed.com) Celebrating Juneteenth 2021 (gateway-longview.org) Things to Know About Juneteenth — ARCC Blog (joinarcc.org) Juneteenth: History and Food of the Celebration | Heritage Radio Network Texas Observes Juneteenth | TSLAC Which states recognize Juneteenth as an official holiday? | Pew Research Center What to know about Juneteenth, the newest federal holiday | CNN What is Juneteenth—and how did it become a federal holiday? (nationalgeographic.com) A Proclamation on Juneteenth Day of Observance, 2022 | The White House Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov) Juneteenth | DoDEA Juneteenth: What It Is And How It Is Observed : NPR Juneteenth (tshaonline.org) Juneteenth | Atlanta History Center Juneteenth: Freedom Day (turing.edu) Celebrating Juneteenth 2021 (gateway-longview.org) Today is Juneteenth. Here's why it matters. (iamsecond.com) Juneteenth, Black Lives, and Structural Discrimination : ICAAD What Does Juneteenth Celebrate? The History ...
    Show More Show Less
    21 mins
  • 2:Thomas L. Jennings: Pioneering Dry Cleaning and Social Justice

    2:Thomas L. Jennings: Pioneering Dry Cleaning and Social Justice
    Jun 19 2024
    Date: June 19, 2024 Legacy Makers: Stories of Black Inventors and Icons Title and Show Info Episode #2. Thomas L. Jennings: Pioneering Dry Cleaning and Social Justice Featuring: Toni Davis (Host & Storyteller). Summary In this episode, we delve into the remarkable life of Thomas L. Jennings, a man whose legacy is as multifaceted as the city he called home. Born free in a nation where liberty was a privilege for a select few, Jennings navigated a world rife with racial prejudice to become a pioneering inventor and an impassioned advocate for social justice. The backdrop is early 19th century New York City, a burgeoning metropolis where the shadows of slavery loom large. It is against this backdrop that Jennings' story unfolds, beginning with his humble origins and early struggles as a young African American. Despite societal barriers, Jennings' insatiable curiosity and intellect propel him into the world of tailoring, where he ultimately revolutionizes garment care with his invention of dry-scouring, the precursor to modern dry cleaning. But Jennings' contributions extend far beyond his technical innovations. As a successful businessman, he channels his wealth and influence into the abolitionist movement, tirelessly working to dismantle the institution of slavery and fight for civil rights. From purchasing the freedom of his own family to championing the desegregation of public transportation, Jennings' actions are driven by a profound commitment to justice and equality. Through triumph and tribulation, Jennings’ story is one of perseverance, ingenuity, and the relentless pursuit of a better future. His legacy is not just one of technological advancement but also of enduring social impact. Join us as we explore how Thomas L. Jennings, a man of vision and valor, forged a path that would illuminate the way for generations to come. Highlights: 00:57- INTRO. NEW YORK CITY. 05:31- THOMAS L. JENNINGS BIRTH. 07:12- THOMAS BECOMES AN APPRENTICE. 07:32- THOMAS MEETS ELIZABETH CARTWRIGHT. 13:04- THOMAS MARRIES ELIZABETH. 13:06- THEY HAVE THREE CHILDREN. 14:55- THOMAS INVENTS DRY SCOURING. 15:34- THOMAS APPLIES FOR A PATENT. 16:44- THOMAS IS GRANTED A PATENT. 19:29- THOMAS ESTABLISHES HIS OWN DRY CLEANING BUSINESS. 20:38- THOMAS PURCHASES THE FREEDOM OF HIS WIFE AND CHILDREN. 20:43- THOMAS BECOMES AN ACTIVE ABOLITIONIST. 22:29- THOMAS’ DAUGHTER ELIZABETH IS REMOVED FROM A STREETCAR. 24:57- THOMAS FILES SUIT. 25:53- ELIZABETH WINS HER CASE. 27:47- DESEGREGATION OF NYC PUBLIC TRANSIT SERVICES 29:50- THOMAS PASSES AWAY Subscribe to the podcast. Links To Additional Resources: Thomas Jennings the abolitionist and brilliant inventor - The Westside Gazette https://abc7ny.com/abc-7-unite-thomas-jennings-charles-b-brooks-inventors/10372629/ http://www.myblackhistory.net/Thomas_Jennings.htm https://www.wunderground.com/history/monthly/us/ny/new-york-city Elizabeth Jennings, Who Desegregated New York’s Trolleys (nytimes.com) Elizabeth Jennings Graham - Wikipedia A Brief History of the Father of Modern Dry Cleaning: Thomas L. Jennings (drycleanerstogo.com) Biography of Thomas Jennings, Invented Dry-Cleaning (thoughtco.com) A Bold Man of Color: Thomas L. Jennings and the Proceeds of a Patent — The Gotham Center for New York City History Recognizing the 200th Anniversary of Thomas Jennings’ Patent | National Inventors Hall of Fame® Mrs Elizabeth Cartwright Jennings (1798-1873) - Find a Grave Memorial Thomas L. Jennings - Wikipedia NIHF Inductee Thomas Jennings and the History of Dry Cleaning (invent.org) Meet Thomas Jennings, The Inventor Of Dry-Cleaning And First Black U.S. Citizen To Secure A Patent - AfroTech Thomas L. Jennings (1791- 1856) • (blackpast.org) Thomas Jennings | Lemelson (mit.edu) A Brief History of the Father of Modern Dry Cleaning: Thomas L. Jennings (drycleanerstogo.com) Thomas Jennings - The Black Inventor Online Museum Meet Thomas Jennings, The Inventor Of Dry-Cleaning And First Black U.S. Citizen To Secure A Patent (yahoo.com) The First African-American to Hold a Patent Invented 'Dry Scouring' | Smithsonian (smithsonianmag.com) Thomas L. Jennings - Students | Britannica Kids | Homework Help Thomas Jennings, Tradesman born - African American Registry (aaregistry.org) A Bold Man of Color: Thomas L. Jennings and the Proceeds of a Patent — The Gotham Center for New York City History Biography of Thomas Jennings, Invented Dry-Cleaning (thoughtco.com) Do You Know Thomas L. Jennings? — Oak Hill Dry Cleaners Thomas Jennings invented 'dry cleaning' over 200 years ago (theblackwallsttimes.com) Thomas Jennings: The Man Who Invented Dry Cleaning - Red Hanger Thomas L. Jennings, First African American to be Granted a Patent – IPO Education Foundation (ipoef.org) Real Success Contributes to the Success of Others (globalleadersinstitute.org) Thomas Jennings: African American Inventor (myblackhistory.net) Meet Thomas Jennings: The Inventor of Dry-Cleaning And ...
    Show More Show Less
    33 mins
  • 3: Glenn Burke: The High Five Inventor and MLB's Trailblazing Gay Icon

    3: Glenn Burke: The High Five Inventor and MLB's Trailblazing Gay Icon
    Jun 19 2024
    Date: June 19, 2024 Legacy Makers: Stories of Black Inventors and Icons Title and Show Info Episode #3. Glenn Burke: The High Five Inventor and MLB’s Trailblazing Gay Icon Featuring: Toni Davis (Host & Storyteller). Summary In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary life of Glenn Burke, the man behind the high-five and a pioneering figure in Major League Baseball's history. Glenn's story is one of resilience and triumph over adversity. From leading his high school basketball team to a championship to becoming a rising star in the Los Angeles Dodgers and Oakland Athletics, Glenn's journey was marked by groundbreaking moments, including the spontaneous invention of the high-five with teammate Dusty Baker in 1977. This simple yet powerful gesture became a symbol of celebration worldwide. However, Glenn's life was not solely defined by his athletic prowess. As one of the first openly gay athletes in professional sports, his courage to live authentically amid an era of deep-seated discrimination set a trailblazing path for future generations. Glenn's struggle for acceptance within the MLB, including facing overt prejudice and ultimately being traded, underscores the harsh realities he endured. Despite retiring from baseball and facing personal and health challenges, including his battle with AIDS, Glenn's legacy continued to inspire. His participation in the Gay Games, his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, and his historic coming-out interview on the TODAY show highlight his lasting impact on and off the field. Join us as we celebrate Glenn Burke’s life, reflecting on his significant contributions to sports, his brave journey as a gay athlete, and the enduring symbol of unity and joy he gave the world through the high-five. His legacy is a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity, resilience, and the transformative power of sports. Highlights: 00:58- INTRO. 02:27- GLENN BURKE’S BIRTH. 04:08- NAMED HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL PLAYER OF THE YEAR. 04:33- DRAFTED TO THE MLB MINOR LEAGUE. 05:49- DRAFTED TO THE MLB LOS ANGELES DODGERS. 07:42- INVENTS THE HIGH FIVE. 09:34- MANAGEMENT LEARNS OF HIS SEXUALITY. 10:04- GLENN IS TRADED TO THE OAKLAND A’s. 11:38- GLENN INJURES HIS KNEE. 12:13- DEMOTED TO MLB MINOR LEAGUE. 14:35- QUITS PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL. 15:11- PARTICIPATES IN THE GAY OLYMPICS. 15:41- BECOMES THE FIRST MLB PLAYER TO PUBLICLY COME OUT. 18:23- HIT BY A CAR. 19:19- DRUG ABUSE. 20:11- HOMELESSNESS. 21:27- DIAGNOSED WITH HIV. 21:32: DIEASE PROGRESSES TO AIDS. 21:40 OAKLAND A’s SUPPORTS HIM FINANCIALLY WHILE HE LIVES WITH HIS SISTER. 22:22 GLENN PASSES AWAY. 23:28 BILL BEAN COMES OUT. 24:19 LIST OF ACCOLADES. Subscribe to the podcast. Links To Additional Resources: Glenn Burke Facts for Kids (kiddle.co) Glenn Burke Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com Glenn Burke, MLB's 1st openly gay player, spoke to TODAY's Bryant Gumbel in 1982 At Pride Night, Dodgers Embrace Glenn Burke, Who They Once Shunned - The New York Times (nytimes.com) Glenn Burke | Legacy Project Chicago Glenn Burke, MLB's First Openly Gay Player, Likely Invented the High Five (ask.com) Glenn Burke Stats, Age, Position, Height, Weight, Fantasy & News | MLB.com Glenn Burke, Game Changer (macmillan.com) Stories - FAM (aidsmonument.org) Glenn Burke, Game Changer: The Man Who Invented the High Five (publishersweekly.com) The Story of the First Openly Gay MLB Player: Glenn Burke - First Name Basis The Forgotten History of the First Openly Gay Man to Play Major League Baseball | Them Glenn Burke, an ‘extravagantly gifted’ baseball player, paid a price for being gay (oaklandside.org) Glenn Burke Baseball Stats by Baseball Almanac (baseball-almanac.com) Glenn Burke, Game Changer: The Man Who Invented the High Five | School Library Journal (slj.com) Glenn Burke, Game Changer: The Man Who Invented the High Five – Books of Wonder LGBTQ History: How Glenn Burke defied bigotry in Major League Baseball – Liberation News Glenn Burke – Society for American Baseball Research (sabr.org) ‘Because Dusty Baker accepted him, he was accepted.’ Glenn Burke’s story and why it matters - The Athletic A High Five for Glenn Burke - Phil Bildner Glenn Burke - Beverly Press & Park Labrea NewsBeverly Press & Park Labrea News Glenn Burke, Baseball Player born - African American Registry (aaregistry.org) Why aren't the Dodgers recognizing Glenn Burke on Pride Night? - Los Angeles Times (latimes.com) A High Five for Glenn Burke (macmillan.com) Glenn Burke Facts for Kids (kiddle.co) Jamie Lee Curtis, Ryan Murphy Team On Netflix Series About Dodgers Glenn Burke (deadline.com) Pro baseball player Glenn Burke refused to live a lie - Philadelphia Gay News (epgn.com) The A’s must continue honoring Glenn Burke even if they move to Las Vegas - Outsports Glenn Burke - Oakland Athletics Unspecified Position - ESPN Glenn Burke Stats, Age, Position, Height, Weight, ...
    Show More Show Less
    28 mins
World
Show More Show Less

What listeners say about Legacy Makers: Stories of Black Inventors and Icons

Average Customer Ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.

Audible.com.au reviews

Amazon Reviews
No Reviews are Available
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.