02/01/1926 - Launch of Negro History Week

In February 1926, “Negro History Week” was started by Carter G. Woodson, an African American historian, author, and journalist. The goal of the week was to honor and celebrate what Black Americans have done for the United States and to learn more about their history and culture.

Woodson chose the second week of February because that is when both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass were born. Both of these people were important to African American history. He thought that if he talked about what Black Americans had done well and taught people about their contributions, he could help change the negative attitudes and stereotypes that were common at the time.

Negro History Week was welcomed by African American communities all over the United States, and schools and local governments soon saw it as an important event. The event became more and more popular over time, and by the late 1960s, it was called “Black History Month.”

Today, the United States and Canada celebrate Black History Month every year. This is a time to think about the history and culture of African Americans. Events and activities are held during the month to teach people about what Black Americans have done for society and to help people learn more about and appreciate African American history and culture.

In conclusion, Carter G. Woodson’s start of Negro History Week in 1926 was an important step toward recognizing the history and culture of African Americans. It gave people a chance to celebrate the achievements of black Americans and learn more about what they had done for society. It is still known as Black History Month today.