Today in History: Mahalia Jackson
Today in History–October 26–the Library of Congress features Mahalia Jackson, born on this day in 1911. The “Queen of Gospel Song” performed at national venues and sang for four presidents in addition to singing “I’ve Been ‘Buked and I Been Scorned” just before Martin Luther King delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech during the 1963 march on Washington. If you have access to YouTube, you can hear Ms. Jackson sing that song and see footage of her singing another song at the 1963 civil rights march. Learn more by visiting the Today in History section and reviewing the resources below.
Gospel Singer, Mahalia Jackson Was Born from America’s Library
Gospel Singer Mahalia Jackson (scroll to read)
Mahalia Jackson at March on Washington
Mahalia Jackson historical newspaper coverage
Oral history mentions of Mahalia Jackson
A Time for Freedom 30-minute documentary about the Black March on Washington on May 17, 1957 that includes Mahalia Jackson singing
African American Gospel article
Related resources