Black History Month

In 1926, Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History sponsored a national Negro History Week to bring attention to the contributions of black people throughout American history. They chose the second week of February so that the celebration took place around the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. Schools and communities were inspired to organize local celebrations and Negro History Week continued to thrive.

In the late 1960s, Negro History Week evolved into Black History Month and in 1976 President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month. Some people believe that black history is American history and should be recognized all year. There are some fascinating people to learn more about.

As we take time to celebrate the contributions of African Americans, look for some great biographies to read.

Did You Know About?

Spike Lee (1957- ) – author and filmmaker; he recently produced a documentary about Michael Jackson

Bessie Coleman (1892-1926) – first female aviator; she learned to fly in France, received an international license to fly, then returned to America and presented air shows

Joseph Bologne Saint-Georges (1739-1799) – violinist and classical music composer; he played for the king and queen of England and Mozart admired his work

Maritcha Remond Lyons (1848-1929) – first African American to graduate from Providence High School; she was a teacher and an assistant principal

Benjamin Banneker (1731-1806) – farmer, astronomer, author and surveyor; he wrote almanacs, built a wooden clock and helped design Washington D.C.