Black History Month celebrates the achievements of African Americans in various fields during February. Dr. Carter G. Woodson founded Negro History Week in 1926 to highlight African American contributions to American society. The week was expanded to a month in 1976. Critics believe black history should be celebrated year-round.
Black History Month is a month-long celebration of the contributions and achievements of African Americans. It takes place during the month of February and highlights the contributions of African Americans in the fields of science, the arts, literature, entertainment, politics and sports. Whether it’s the first African-American mayor of a major city or the first African-American astronaut, Black History Month highlights African-American notables who have contributed to American society.
The start of Black History Month was established by a man named Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926. Woodson, the son of former slaves, received a PhD from Harvard. He was shocked that history books never mentioned African Americans. On the rare occasions they appeared in American history books, the books were only about their time as slaves.
In response to this neglect, Woodson founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History in 1915. By 1916, Woodson had started the Journal of Negro History. In 1926, Negro History Week was born. He began the week-long celebration to encourage the United States to take the time to recognize the contributions of African Americans throughout history.
Woodson chose the second week of February for Negro History Week because President Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass were born during the first week of February. These two men were both instrumental in helping improve the lives of African Americans. In 1976, Negro History Week was expanded and called Black History Month. During Black History Month, Americans learn about African-American inventors, scientists, civil rights leaders, artists, writers, athletes, political figures, and historical figures who have contributed to American society.
Children in school read books about famous African Americans, learn little-known facts about black history, and participate in activities that celebrate African American culture. Television stations showing films featuring the lives of African Americans who have historical significance in U.S. organizations present a variety of special events to celebrate Black History Month, including poetry readings, film festivals, dramatic presentations, and music concerts.
Not everyone is happy with the way the United States celebrates black history. In fact, some critics believe Black History Month should be celebrated year-round. They find it offensive to only celebrate the achievements of African Americans during one month of the year. Until these critics are able to change the celebration so that Black history is included seamlessly in all American history books, the United States will continue to observe Black History Month during the month of February.
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