Black History Month is an annual observance, in February, of the achievements and culture of African Americans. It coincides with the birthdays of the black leader Frederick Douglass (February 14) and of Abraham Lincoln (February 12).
The idea for an observance honoring the accomplishments of African Americans led to the establishment of Negro History Week in 1926. It was proposed by Carter G. Woodson, a black historian known as the Father of Black History, and others. The observance became known as Black History Week during the early 1970’s. It was established as Black History Month in 1976.
The celebration is sponsored by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). Woodson founded the association in 1915. Each year, the ASALH designates a theme.
The ASALH produces Black History Month Study Kits to help schools, colleges, ASALH branches, and other organizations celebrate the observance. The ASALH also provides information about Black History Month through its publications.
See also African Americans and its list of related articles; Association for the Study of African American Life and History ; Woodson, Carter Godwin .
