With February coming to an end we wanted to take a moment to show appreciation for Carter G. Woodson who was an incredibly influential historian, scholar, educator, and publisher commonly referred to as the “Father of Black History.” Dr. Carter G. Woodson (1875-1950) dedicated his life to educating African Americans about the achievements and contributions of their ancestors.
After Woodson attended American Historical Association meetings, he found that the field overlooked Black history. This realization motivated Woodson to initiate what he called “Negro History Week” in hopes to enlighten society of African American history and highlight black achievements, this commemoratory week would eventually transform into “Black History Month”. Today, Black History Month is a time to honor the contributions and legacy of African Americans across U.S. history and society—from activists and civil rights pioneers such as Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Marcus Garvey, Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Rosa Parks to leaders in industry, politics, science, culture and more.
Black History Month exists thanks to Carter G. Woodson, and every year encourages us all to educate ourselves on American history specifically African American influence and the impact they had on the progression of American society.
