CELEBRATING Black History Month

Carter G. Woodson, founder of Black History Month (National Park Service)

To celebrate and commemorate the contributions to the United States made by people of African descent, American educator and historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson established Black History Week. The Black History Week was first celebrated in February 12, 1926. The second week of February was chosen for this celebration because it marked the birthdays of two people who had greatly impacted Black Americans' lives: Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. In 1976, as part of the nation’s bicentennial, the week was expanded into Black History Month. In 2000, President Clinton proclaimed February as National African American History Month.

2009 Presidential Proclamation for African American History Month
The history of African Americans is unique and rich, and one that has helped to define what it means to be an American. Arriving on ships on the shores of North America more than 300 years ago, recognized more as possessions than people, African Americans have come to know the freedoms fought for in establishing the United States and gained through the use of our founding principles of freedom of speech, freedom of the press, the right to assembly, and due process of law. Read more

History of the Black History Month
Washington — Each February, Black History Month honors the struggles and triumphs of millions of American citizens over the most devastating obstacles — slavery, prejudice, poverty — as well as their contributions to the nation’s cultural and political life. Read more

Black History Timeline
Celebrate the historical icons of America’s black community through this interactive journey. Enter

◊ Civil Rights Movement

◊ Martin Luther King Jr.

◊ Prominent African Americans

◊ Black History Month Links