March 03

From February 28 to March 3, 1859, plantation owner Pierce Mease Butler held the largest slave auction in U.S. history, selling over 400 men, women, and children. This two-day event, known as the Great Slave Auction, took place in Savannah, Georgia. The auction was the result of Butler's financial ruin and intended to satisfy his debts. Families were tragically separated as enslaved individuals were sold to the highest bidders. Reports from the era describe a grim atmosphere as former neighbors were forced apart. The sale shocked abolitionists and intensified debates over slavery in the run-up to the Civil War. It remains one of the starkest examples of the human cost of slavery in America.

On March 3, 1913, one day before President Woodrow Wilson’s inauguration, over 5,000 women and supporters marched down Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C. for the Woman Suffrage Procession, one of the first large-scale political demonstrations by women in the United States. Organized by suffragist Alice Paul and the National American Woman Suffrage Association, the march aimed to draw attention to the demand for voting rights. Participants wore white, purple, and gold—colors that symbolized purity, dignity, and hope—and carried banners calling for equality at the ballot box. The procession faced hostility and jeering crowds, highlighting the societal resistance to women's enfranchisement. Despite challenges, the event galvanized the suffrage movement and increased public awareness. It served as a powerful statement of women’s political agency and set the stage for further demonstrations. Ultimately, the march contributed momentum toward the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920, granting women the right to vote.

On March 3, 1923, Time magazine released its inaugural issue, founded by journalist Briton Hadden and Henry Luce. The magazine pioneered a condensed news format, offering summaries of the week’s most important events with a distinctive, conversational style. Its red border became an iconic symbol of timely journalism, and the publication quickly gained popularity among readers seeking concise news coverage. Time’s editorial approach influenced the development of news magazines and shaped public perceptions of global affairs. Over the decades, it expanded with international editions and diversified its content to include politics, business, culture, and science. The magazine also became known for its annual 'Person of the Year' feature, highlighting influential figures. Time’s establishment on this date marked a significant moment in the evolution of modern media.

On March 3, 1939, Gandhi commenced a hunger strike in Bombay to protest the authoritarian policies of British India. He sought improved civil liberties, fair governance, and representation for Indian subjects. The fast mobilized nationwide support and put pressure on colonial authorities. British officials negotiated to address prison conditions and expand political dialogue. The protest showcased Gandhi's commitment to nonviolent resistance (Satyagraha). This action energized the Indian independence movement in the lead-up to World War II.

On March 3, 1991, an amateur camcorder recorded Los Angeles police officers brutally beating motorist Rodney King after a high-speed chase. The footage quickly circulated worldwide, exposing allegations of police brutality and racial discrimination within the LAPD. Public outrage grew as harrowing images of the assault raised questions about law enforcement accountability. The incident galvanized civil rights advocates and led to calls for police reform and greater oversight. The video's impact foreshadowed the L.A. riots of 1992 and influenced future movements against police violence.