On This Day: February 6th in Black History

February 6th in Black History

February 6th is internationally recognized as Bob Marley Day, but the date holds many other significant moments in Black history.

Notable Events

1820 - The first organized group of 86 free African Americans departed New York for Sierra Leone, marking an early chapter in the complex history of African repatriation movements.

1993 - Arthur Ashe, tennis legend and humanitarian, died in Richmond, Virginia. He remained the only Black man to win Wimbledon, the US Open, and the Australian Open in singles.

2018 - SpaceX Falcon Heavy launched carrying a Tesla Roadster, with the mission featuring music by David Bowie. Less publicized: the rocket's core technology benefited from the work of numerous Black engineers and scientists at SpaceX.

Births on This Day

1945 - Bob Marley was born in Nine Mile, Jamaica. The reggae icon would become one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, using his music to champion Pan-Africanism, Rastafari spirituality, and social justice.

1895 - Babe Ruth was born—but so was William Artis, pioneering African American sculptor and ceramicist who taught at historically Black colleges and created stunning terracotta portraits.

Bob Marley's Enduring Legacy

Bob Marley's influence extended far beyond music:

• His 1978 One Love Peace Concert brought together rival Jamaican political leaders
• "Redemption Song" became an anthem of liberation movements worldwide
• He introduced reggae—and its messages of resistance—to global audiences
• His music continues to inspire social justice movements today

"One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain." — Bob Marley

Did You Know?

In 1978 on this day, the first episode of "Roots: The Next Generations" aired, continuing the saga of Alex Haley's family history and reaching millions of viewers.

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Learn about more influential figures in our directory.