safety
How white supremacists staged the only successful coup in U.S. history
By Lee Cowan at CBS4 Miami
· July 12, 2026
· 7 min read
In downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, stands a memorial that's easy to pass – six bronze paddles stretching toward the sky. The plaque is hard to read in places, not because the words have washed away, but because what they say is so hard to believe.There aren't many tours that tell the tale
Key takeaway "Cedric Harrison gives a talk at the 1898 Memorial Park in Wilmington, N.
Why this matters in The Miami
The story of Wilmington's violent overthrow by white supremacists in 1898 has implications for Miami , a city that prides itself on its diverse and integrated communities. As Miami continues to grow and evolve, it's essential to acknowledge the darker aspects of American history and their relevance to the city's own experiences with racial tension and social inequality. Miami's own history of racial segregation and discrimination is well-documented, and the city's ongoing efforts to address these issues can be informed by the lessons of Wilmington's past. The fact that Wilmington's coup was successful in suppressing black political power and undermining integration efforts serves as a cautionary tale for Miami, where communities like Little Havana, Wynwood, and Miami Beach continue to navigate issues of gentrification, cultural identity, and social justice. By examining the complexities of Wilmington's history, Miamians can gain a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving and promoting diversity and inclusivity in their own city.
About this story
Original reporting by CBS4 Miami . The Miami surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit CBS4 Miami . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: July 12, 2026 ·
Source: CBS4 Miami ·
Reading time: 7 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? In downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, stands a memorial that's easy to pass – six bronze paddles stretching toward the sky. The plaque is hard to read in places, not because the words have washed away, but because what they say is so hard to believe.There aren't many tours that tell the tale
When was this published? This article was first published on July 12, 2026 by CBS4 Miami and curated for The Miami readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Lee Cowan at CBS4 Miami. To learn more about how The Miami selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Miami, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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