Students of Tucson's Dunbar School

Timeline: Explore Black history in Arizona


Take a glimpse into Arizona’s African American history through this interactive timeline from 1904-2021.

Begin with the first African American family to arrive in Mesa in 1905, learn about the schools and subdivisions that welcomed Black Arizonans. See how Black migratory cotton pickers contributed to Gilbert’s growth and prosperity.

Meet Arizona’s first Black school principal, and see Arizona schools desegregate – before the Brown v. Board of Education ruling.

See Arizona’s struggle over approving the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday – and what it took before voters approved the holiday. And meet Black leaders who won political office and the local and statewide level.

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