America had an African zoo captive, and he ended his life on this day

America had an African zoo captive, and he ended his life on this day

Have you heard of Ota Benga? His life and death highlights one of many racially motivated atrocities faced by people of African decent in America. The Congolese native and Mbuti pygmy was captured and part of an exhibit for the St. Louis World Fair. Trapped in the captivity of the museum for years, Benga would commit suicide by firing a borrowed revolver in to his chest after chipping the caps off his teeth and starting a ceremonial fire. In what ways are African Americans treated like spectacles today? How can we prevent being mocked?