Why Is Black History Month Celebrated in February?
Carter G. Woodson Dr. Carter G. Woodson (1875-1950) was the son of freed slaves and an exceptional student who became only the second African-American to earn a doctorate degree at Harvard University. Due to his pioneering efforts to incorporate African-American history into public school curriculums, he is often referred to as the Father of Black History. Association for the Study of African-American Life and History In 1915, Woodson co-founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, and the following year founded the Journal of Negro History. Woodson and his organization were instrumental in promoting awareness of the many contributions African-Americans have made throughout time. Negro History Week A week-long celebration of African-American heritage and history began the week that marked the birthdays of two key figures in African-American history: former president and signer of the Emancipation Proclamation Abraham Lincoln (February 12) and abolitionist Frederick
