On February 1, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln signed the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. Frederick Douglass escaped slavery on September 3, 1838 and became free in December of 1846. Both of them have impacted the Black community with their actions and February became Black History Month to honor them since their birthdays are in February. The summer of 1915 marked the 50th anniversary of the 13th Amendment, was celebrated at the University of Chicago, and was sponsored by the state of Illinois. It was organized to highlight the progress of African Americans. Thousands of African Americans travelled from across the country to be a part of the three-week celebration, including Carter G. Woodson.
Woodson was born on December 19, 1875, in New Canton,Virginia, and was considered a strong personality when he was alive. He was an educator, historian, and civil rights activist who dedicated his entire life to promoting the achievements of the Black community. He was a pioneer in the field of African American History, played a big role in establishing Black History Month, and is considered to be the Father of Black History. Woodson was inspired by the celebration in Chicago. He later decided to form an organization to promote the scientific study of black life and history.
Woodson met with A.L Jackson at the Wabash YMCA in Chicago, Illinois, where A.L. Jackson was working at the time as an executive secretary. Together they formed the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, ASALH. This organization was dedicated to researching and promoting the achievements of Black Americans and African-descended people. In 1926, ASALH sponsored a national African American History Week. They chose the second week of February to coincide with Fredrick Douglass’ and Abraham Lincoln’s birthdays. This event inspired communities all over the country, creating history clubs, performances, and lectures around Black History.
African American History Week became a yearly celebration. Thanks to the 1960s civil rights movement, awareness of African American History Week later became Black History Month. President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1979. Today, Black History Month is a time for African Americans to celebrate their heritage and to honor the many African Americans leaders who have paved the way for African Americans today.
