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Dr. Carter G. Woodson (1875-1950)

Father of Black History

IT IS BLACK HISTORY MONTH…but did you know that Black History Month started as a week-long celebration in 1926, 100 years ago, by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, an African American historian and author, known as the Father of Black History?” Indeed, he created ‘Negro History Week’ in 1926 as a way to acknowledge, appreciate and promote the study of African American history as a part of our collective heritage.

It was later expanded by President Gerald Ford in 1976 to become Black History Month with its continued goal to foster pride, understanding, and appreciation of the contributions African Americans have made to the rich mosaic of historical and cultural experiences indelibly embedded in the heritage of our country, the United States of America.

Other countries that also celebrate Black History Month include Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Ireland, and the Netherlands, though the timing varies. Nations, such as Brazil, also hold related commemorations, such as Black Consciousness Day.

“What we need is not a history of selected races or nations, but the history of the world void of national bias, race hate, and religious prejudice.”
- Dr. Carter G. Woodson

“What we need is not a history of selected races or nations, but the history of the world void of national bias, race hate, and religious prejudice.” - Dr. Carter G. Woodson

“What we need is not a history of selected races or nations, but the history of the world void of national bias, race hate, and religious prejudice.”
- Dr. Carter G. Woodson