What is Black History Month?

About

February is Black History Month, a time the country celebrates achievements by African Americans, and recognizes their central role in U.S. history.

Who started Black History Month?

Carter G. Woodson developed the celebration of Black history, due to the lack of information that was provided to the public about the accomplishments of Black people. In 1926, a week was designated to celebrate Black History to recognize the contributions of African Americans.

This week-long event that Woodson created, became a month-long celebration in 1976 when President Gerald Ford extended the recognition.

“honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

- Gerald Ford

Influential African Americans

Rosa Parks

Frederick Douglass

Martin Luther King Jr.

Bernard Anthony Harris

Bernard Anthony Harris became the first African American to walk in space.

Barack Obama

Barack Obama was the first African-American president of the United States.

Kamala Harris

Kamala Harris is the first woman and woman of color to be elected as vice president of the United States.

Books to Read to Honor Black History Month

Look What Brown Can Do! by Marie Harris

This books teaches readers about inspiring contributions to black history and encourages children to dream big.

I Have a Dream by Martin Luther King

This illustration book reveals Martin Luther King Jr.'s inspiring speeches about the importance of equality.

Bippity Bop Barbershop by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley

This book highlights the role barbershops play in black culture, and what it is like to conquer your fears as a child.

Princess Hair by Sharee Miller

This story encourages black girls to embrace their hair in all its many forms. It shines a spotlight on the beauty and diversity of black hair, and it teaches young girls that all types of hair is princess hair.

Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed

This book is a story about the first African American woman who went to space - Mae Jemison. It highlights her dreams as a child, her hard work, and her success in space.

Juneteenth for Mazie by Floyd Cooper

This book highlights the day in 1865, known as Juneteenth, that marked the end of slavery in 1865. Children can accompany the character Mazie, as she celebrates Juneteenth.

Visit epic! and sharemylesson for more suggestions on books to read during Black History Month.

Online Resources

28 Days of Black History

Sign up with 28 Days of Black History to receive daily emails for the month of February to celebrate Black legacy in the United States.

Each evening at 5 pm, the virtual exhibition will include:

AN INTRODUCTION: "To a moment in Black history exemplified by the art, literature, or artifact featured for the day."

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: "To guide conversations with your family, friends, classroom, or colleagues."

ACTION ITEMS: "To dismantle anti-Blackness in your community."

Facing History and Ourselves

Sign up with Facing History to strengthen your Black History curriculum. There are a variety of teaching resources and blog posts that are created to promote innovative instruction and reflection of these topics.

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