Black History, For Real Wondery

This episode comes out for free on 05/27, and is available early and ad-free for Wondery+ subscribers.

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When it comes to works of art, “Picasso” is synonymous with brilliance and innovation. Spanish painter and sculptor Pablo Picasso is famously known for spearheading the Cubist movement during the 20th century art revolution. What most people don’t know is that Picasso was heavily inspired by Africans and the African diaspora. One of his most famous works, Les Demoiselles d’Avignon, depicts a striking resemblance to African masks and sculptures, which has our hosts asking, “Does Picasso owe Black people?” We’re also chatting about the history of braids.

Black culture is a pivotal pillar of broader American culture. From fashion, to language, to being the sonic foundation to much of American music. In this special episode, our hosts do a deep dive into country music and how its roots are grounded in Black music. Using Beyoncé’s latest effort, Cowboy Carter, as a springboard, Conscious Lee and Franchesca Ramsey discuss the differences between appreciation, appropriation, and colonization of Black culture. There’s also a history lesson on grillz. And not the ones you cook burgers on.

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The Tulsa Race Massacre is by far one of the most horrific events in American history. Although it took place over 100 years ago, the effects still ripple through the country to this day. During this time, the Oklahoma media suppressed the truth of what really happened. However, one brave resident of Greenwood documents the reality. Mary E. Jones Parrish understands the power of storytelling, and she is on a mission to share the truth of what actually happened to Black Wall Street, risking her life in the process.

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In the spring of 1921, a racially integrated group of moviegoers were enjoying a night out at the Black-owned Dreamland Theater. But when the movie is suddenly turned off and the lights are turned on, enjoyment turns to confusion.The cinema patrons are alerted to trouble brewing in town and are urged to make their way home with caution. But as news of a lynching spreads, Greenwood residents begin to panic. The residents of the prosperous town worry not only about their livelihoods, but also their lives. 

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In 1906, entrepreneurs Ottawa Gurley and J.B. Stradford purchased parcels of government land in Tulsa, Oklahoma. They had dreams of building a thriving Black community, equipped with the same amenities and privileges available to whites. Dubbed Greenwood, it was promoted as a sanctuary where Black people could thrive without fear of racial discrimination. By 1921, Greenwood had become a hub of Black enterprise, with Gurley and Stradford leading the development of a self-sufficient business district. But their successes would be short-lived.

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After nearly two years, Mansa Musa finally completes his pilgrimage to Mecca. The trip is filled with tribulations, but the transformed king has prevailed. The spiritual journey may not erase the wrongdoings of his past, but it leads Musa to a peaceful self-acceptance. After his trip to the holy land, Musa must make his way home to his throne in Mali. But the road back may not be as welcoming as the one to Mecca.

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