Black History Making Moments In Pop Culture Of The Last Decade
Black history continues to be woven throughout pop culture.
From Beyoncé’s record-breaking Grammy wins to Simone Biles becoming one of the most decorated gymnasts, many of pop culture’s most defining moments of the past decade involve the achievements of Black stars. They’re breaking glass ceilings in sports, television, film, politics, music, fashion, and more.
As we celebrate Black History Month, let’s look back at a few of the moments where Black people have made history in pop culture over the past ten years.
Kamala Harris Becomes Vice President
Kamala Harris made history as the first woman, Black person, and person of Asian descent to be elected to the nation’s second-highest office in 2020.
Beyoncé Breaks Grammy Record
In 2023, Beyoncé broke the record for the most Grammy wins of all time after accepting her 32nd award.
Black Quarterbacks Face Off At The Super Bowl
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts and Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes squared off at the 57th Super Bowl, marking the first time in history that two Black QBs competed against each other in the title game.
Simone Biles Gymnastics Wins
In 2023, Simone Biles became the most decorated gymnast in history with 34 medals across the world championships and Olympics.
Misty Copeland Breaks Glass Ceilings In Ballet
Misty Copeland made history in 2015 as the first African American Female Principal Dancer to join the prestigious American Ballet Theatre.
Black Panther Hits The Big Screen
The release of the Marvel film Black Panther made waves in pop culture as it became one of the first megabudget movies to have an African-American director and a predominantly Black cast.
Marsai Martin Becomes Youngest EP Of Hollywood Film
At 16, Marsai Martin made history and received a Guinness World Record for becoming the youngest executive producer of a major Hollywood film.
Halle Bailey Portrays Ariel In The Little Mermaid
Halle Bailey made history as Disney’s first Black live-action princess when she played Ariel in The Little Mermaid.
Ketanji Brown Jackson Sworn In As Supreme Court Justice
In 2022, Ketanji Brown Jackson became the first Black woman to serve on the nation’s highest court.
Hakeem Jeffries Becomes First Black Party Leader In Congress
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries made history as the first Black lawmaker to lead a party in Congress, succeeding Nancy Pelosi as leader of the Democratic Caucus.
LeBron Breaks NBA Scoring Record
In February 2023, LeBron James broke the NBA scoring record with his 38,388th point and surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who held the record for nearly 39 years.
Quinta Brunson Makes Emmy History
Abbott Elementary’s Quinta Brunson recently was etched in Emmy history after becoming the first Black actress in over 40 years to win the award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series.
Coco Gauff’s U.S. Open Win
At the 2023 U.S. Open, Coco Gauff, 19, became the youngest champion since Serena Williams’ historic victory in 1999.
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