The Origins of Black History Month in the US

In 1915, Harvard-trained historian Carter G. Woodson co-founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH). ASHNLH committed itself to the research and promotion of black American achievement.

 “If a race has no history, it has not worthwhile tradition… and it stands in danger of being exterminated.” – Carter Woodson, ‘Negro History Week’

In 1926, Woodson declared the second week of February, “Negro History Week.” The idea was a hit among teachers and its popularity grew. In 1969, black educators and students at Kent State University were the first to propose a “Black History Month.” The following year, the university became the first to celebrate February as Black History Month. The annual celebration was first recognized by a U.S. President in 1976. President Gerald Ford called upon citizens to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans …” Since then, February has been has been designated by every president as Black History Month.