2 Equals 12

2 Equals 12

Topic: Black Wall Street

Black Wall Street was the name given to the prosperous African American community of Greenwood in Tulsa, Oklahoma, during the early 20th century. Established in the early 1900s, Greenwood became a thriving center of Black commerce, culture, and entertainment.

The community thrived due to the efforts of Black entrepreneurs who opened businesses, including grocery stores, banks, hotels, theaters, and more. At its peak, Greenwood was one of the most affluent Black communities in the United States, earning it the nickname "Black Wall Street."

However, on May 31, 1921, a white mob, stoked by racial animosity and jealousy over Greenwood's success, descended on the community and carried out a devastating attack. Over the course of two days, the mob looted, burned, and destroyed homes and businesses in Greenwood, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 300 Black residents and the displacement of thousands more.

The Tulsa Race Massacre, as it came to be known, was one of the deadliest and most destructive racial incidents in American history. The destruction of Black Wall Street had long-lasting effects on the residents of Greenwood and the broader African American community, as many families lost their homes, businesses, and livelihoods.

Despite the tragedy and loss, the resilience and spirit of the residents of Greenwood endured, and efforts are ongoing to preserve the memory of Black Wall Street and honor the legacy of the community and its residents.