What makes february black history month

Looking for books about racism? Experts suggest these must-read titles for adults and kids. Want the real truth about slavery? Try these books, movies for kids, adults and teachers. Facebook Twitter Email. Why is Black History Month in February? How do you celebrate? Everything you need to know.

Show Caption. Hide Caption. Black History Month's historical origins explained. If you would like to know more about the types of cookies we serve and how to change your cookie settings, please read our Cookie Notice.

By clicking the "I accept" button, you consent to the use of these cookies. February is Black History Month. This month-long observance in the US and Canada is a chance to celebrate Black achievement. This year, it also follows a tumultuous period where racial justice calls reached a fever pitch, providing a fresh reminder to take stock of where systemic racism persists and give visibility to the people and organizations creating change.

Here's what to know about the monthly observance and how to celebrate this year:. Woodson, known as the "father of Black history. February was chosen by Woodson for the week-long observance as it coincides with the birthdates of both former US President Abraham Lincoln and social reformer Frederick Douglass.

Both men played a significant role in helping to end slavery. Woodson also understood that members of the Black community already celebrated the births of Douglass and Lincoln and sought to build on existing traditions. By the late s, thanks in part to the civil-rights movement and a growing awareness of Black identity, Negro History Week was celebrated by mayors in cities across the country. Eventually, the event evolved into Black History Month on many college campuses.

Black Americans confront a layered, painful past while making countless cultural contributions. We've been responsible for classic books , beauty brands we're looking at you, Madam C. Walker , creative small businesses , films, and inventions we can't imagine life without —and we're still completing countless impressive firsts.

But out of all the calendar pages, why is Black History Month in February a. And who started this tradition? Here's a primer. Harvard-educated historian Carter G. Woodson is credited with creating Black History Month. According to Daryl Michael Scott , a history professor at Howard University, Woodson got the idea in after attending a celebration in Illinois for the 50th anniversary of the 13th Amendment, which under Abraham Lincoln's presidency, abolished slavery in in the Confederate states that seceded from the U.

It wasn't until two years later on June 19, that all people held as property in the United States were officially free.

It honors all Black people from all periods of U. Among the notable figures often spotlighted during Black History Month are Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Since the first Negro History Week in , other countries have joined the United States in celebrating Black people and their contribution to history and culture, including Canada , the United Kingdom , Germany , and the Netherlands. Today Black History Month continues the discussion of Black people and their contributions through activities such as museum exhibits and film screenings, and by encouraging the study of achievements by African Americans year-round.