The Origins of Black History Month: A Journey Through Time

Black History Month, celebrated every February, stands as a powerful reminder of the contributions, struggles, and resilience of African Americans throughout history. While it gained official recognition only in 1975, its roots extend deep into the early 20th century through the dedicated efforts of historian and author Dr. Carter G. Woodson.

The Man Behind the Movement: Carter G. Woodson

Born in 1875 to illiterate former slaves in Virginia, Dr. Carter G. Woodson’s early life was shaped by the harsh realities of race and poverty. Despite these challenges, he displayed an unwavering commitment to education. After working in West Virginia coal mines and on his parents’ farm, Woodson earned his high school diploma in less than two years. He later pursued further studies, culminating in a master’s degree from the University of Chicago and a Ph.D. from Harvard University, making him one of the first African Americans to obtain such a degree.

The Birth of Negro History Week

In February 1926, Woodson initiated the celebration of Negro History Week, introducing a focused effort to highlight African American history. This pioneering endeavor was supported by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), an organization he founded in 1915. With this weeklong celebration, Woodson aimed to educate the public about the significant contributions of Black individuals throughout American history.

The Vision for Visibility

Kaye Whitehead, current president of ASALH, reflects on the critical importance of Woodson’s work. “I think Black folks understood what they had contributed to America’s historical narrative,” she notes, “but no one was talking about it. No one was centralizing it until Dr. Carter G. Woodson was in 1926.” His efforts helped bring visibility to African American achievements and ensured that their history would no longer be overlooked.

Shaping Academic Scholarship

Woodson’s influence extended beyond merely celebrating achievements; he actively worked to combat the historical inaccuracies and racist narratives that dominated academic discourse at the time. He saw a need for rigorous scholarship that accurately represented Black history and created academic journals and presses dedicated to this purpose. This led to the establishment of:

• The Journal of African American History
• Associated Publishers

These institutions would play pivotal roles in disseminating knowledge and promoting Black scholarship, laying the groundwork for future generations of historians and activists.

Expansion to a Month-Long Celebration

Following Woodson’s death in 1950, his legacy continued through various organizations and movements. Members of the Omega Psi Phi fraternity, of which Woodson was a member, played a significant role in pushing for the expansion of Negro History Week into a month-long celebration. This initiative gradually gained traction, culminating in February 1976 when President Gerald Ford issued a proclamation officially recognizing Black History Month during the nation’s bicentennial celebration.

A National Proclamation

Since Ford’s historic declaration, every U.S. president has made subsequent proclamations each February, thus solidifying the month as a time to reflect on and celebrate the extensive contributions of African Americans to the fabric of American society.

Continuing the Legacy

Black History Month has grown into a time for not only celebration but also introspection, education, and advocacy. Schools, organizations, and individuals across the nation engage in various activities and discussions aimed at deepening understanding of the racial struggles faced by African Americans and the ongoing fight for equality.

Through these observances, the spirit of Dr. Carter G. Woodson continues to influence and inspire generations, challenging us to reflect on the past and strive for a more inclusive future.