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African-American Firsts in 2012 - From the first Black senator from South Carolina to the first Black editor of a Conde Nast magazine, 2012 produced some notable African-American firsts. BET.com takes a look at the historic moments. — Jonathan P. Hicks

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Keija Minor, Editor - Keija Minor became the first Black editor of a Conde Nast magazine when she was named editor-in-chief of Brides magazine.

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Steven Horsford, Congressman - Steven Horsford, a Democratic member and Majority Leader of the Nevada Senate, was elected the first Black Congressman from that state. (Photo: Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Ethan Miller/Getty Images

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Fred Luter, Religous Leader - Fred Luter became first Black president of the Southern Baptist Convention, a denomination born in defense of slavery and a spiritual home to white supremacists. (Photo: John McCusker/Times-Picayune /Landov)

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Don Thompson, Business Executive - Don Thompson, a 22-year veteran of the McDonald’s Corporation, became the first Black chief executive of the company.  (Photo: Yves Logghe/AP Photo, File)

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Tia Norfleet, Race Car Driver - Tia Norfleet became the first African-American woman to receive a NASCAR racing license. She is the daughter of NASCAR driver Bobby Norfleet.  (Photo: courtesy Nascar)

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Tim Scott, Senator - Tim Scott was appointed to the U.S. Senate, becoming the first Black member of that body from South Carolina. (Photo: Richard Ellis/Getty Images)

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Courtney Roxanne Pearson, Homecoming Queen - Courtney Roxanne Pearson was crowned as the first Black homecoming queen at the University of Mississippi, a school with a history of segregation. (Photo: AP/File)

Photo By AP/File

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Charniele Herring, Political Leader - Charniele Herring became the first Black Democratic Party chairwoman in Virginia. She is a member of the state’s House of Delegates and served as the minority whip. (Photo: courtesy Charniele Herring)

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Antron Brown, Drag Racing Champion - Antron Brown, a drag racer, became the first African-American driver to win a major auto racing title by winning the Top Fuel National Hot Rod Association championship. (Photo: Jose Carlos Fajardo/Contra Costa Times/MCT /Landov)