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Billie Holiday died on this date in 1959.  Holiday was a true artist of her day and rose as a social phenomenon in the 1950s. Her soulful, unique singing voice and her ability to boldly turn any material that she confronted into her own music made her a superstar of her time. Today, Holiday is remembered for her masterpieces, creativity and vivacity, as many of Holiday’s songs are as well known today as they were decades ago. Holiday’s poignant voice is still considered to be one of the greatest jazz voices of all time.

Also on this date:

1862 Congress authorized president to accept Blacks for military service. Congress passed the Second Confiscation Act, which freed the slaves of all rebels.1984 In a speech at the Democratic National Convention, the Rev. Jesse Jackson formally withdrew as a presidential candidate.