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How Did Black History Month Start?

Updated: Feb 28, 2023

Black history month (February) was not chosen because it is the shortest month of the year.


Black history is American history.


Each day that passes by Black history is made. Black history icons should never be forgotten and always celebrated.


In this article we will uncover the following:

  • What is Negro History Week?

  • Who is the reason for Black History Month?

  • Why is Black History Month celebrated in February?

  • When did Black History Month start?

  • Where did Black History Month start?

  • Black scientists that helped history.


Why is Black History Month Celebrated in February?

The celebration of Black History Month began as “Negro History Week”. Negro History Week originated in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson, an educator, author, and historian, etc. Carter G. Woodson selected Negro History Week to be celebrated on the second week of February annually. The reasoning was to join the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln within the week. Their birthdays are February 14th (Frederick Douglass) and February 12th (Abraham Lincoln).


What fraternity is responsible for Negro History Week & Literature Week?

  • Omega Psi Phi

  • Alpha Phi Alpha

  • Kappa Alpha Psi

  • Phi Beta Sigma


Frederick Douglass is a prominent figure in American history. His birthday was celebrated in Black communities for his efforts to progress Black individuals. Abraham Lincoln was celebrated because he helped “free” the slaves in the 1863 Emancipation Proclamation during the Civil War.


Black American’s contributions to the United States were being ignored and suppressed in American History being taught in schools. Carter G. Woodson was determined to change this. He founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History in 1915 in Chicago. Its mission was clear “scientific study of the neglected aspects of Negro life and history." The following year he founded the Journal of Negro History, which is still publishing to date.


When & Where Did Black History Month Start?

Negro History Week was celebrated annually until 1970. Black History Month was proposed by Black students and educators at Kent State University in February of 1969. The following year from January 2nd, 1970 – February 28th, 1970, the first celebration of Black History Month was carried out at Kent State University. Each year after, Black History Month was celebrated in many parts of the United States. Then in 1976, U.S. President Gerald Ford recognized and designated February to be Black History Month.


Black Scientists That Helped History

Black History is American History. Make The Healthy Choice is a public health company. In efforts to increase knowledge of Black American contributions, we have listed some names with links attached to learn more. These names are individuals that have contributed to public health. These are just some of the many. Learn more below.


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Poll Answer: Omega Psi Phi




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