In 1869, which significant event related to higher education occurred?

• A. Howard University established the first Black law school
• B. Brown v. Board of Education decision
• C. Mendez v Westminster decision
• D. Mount Holyoke founded

Answer: (A)

The idea here is recognizing a landmark moment in expanding higher education for Black Americans during the Reconstruction era. In 1869, Howard University established its School of Law, becoming the first Black law school in the United States. This opened a formal pathway for Black students to receive professional legal training, empowering graduates to practice law, advocate for civil rights, and challenge discriminatory laws. It marks a pivotal shift in access to higher education and professional training at a time when opportunities for Black students were severely limited. By contrast, Mount Holyoke was founded earlier in the 19th century, Brown v. Board of Education occurred in 1954, and Mendez v. Westminster happened in 1947, so those events do not match the 1869 milestone.