As most Americans know, February is Black History Month. It is a time to remember the African-American men and women who have helped to change the face of the world in which we live. I think most people, regardless of race, do not realize how many important things African-Americans have achieved. I felt I was fairly knowledgeable about many, but I found I did not know even one-tenth of the true history created by these amazing individuals.
The easiest way to see the big picture is by looking at a timeline highlighting the many important Events in African-American History. And here is another slightly different Timeline of Key Dates in African-American History. It is humbling to see how many obstacles have been overcome and how many amazing successes have been realized.
February was not chosen at random to celebrate the lives and victories of African-Americans. Both Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln were born in February, and they are considered to be two of the most important people in the history of African-Americans. Also, African-American history and culture was not always observed for the entire month of February. It began as a weeklong celebration in 1926 when Dr. Carter G. Woodson started "Negro History Week" in the Baltimore and Washington D.C. school districts. The week was dedicated to Lincoln and Douglass. In the Bicentennial year of 1976, the celebration was expanded to include the entire month and has been observed across the world accordingly since then.
As we take time to remember the slaves, artists, sports figures, scientists, actors, teachers, politicians, musicians, religious figures, writers and other brave people who have helped improve our world, make sure you share it all with your children. Education is the key to understanding. By teaching our children all people are equal, you are helping to ensure they will never have to watch their friends suffer and fight for what they believe in during their life. For ideas on how to share this with your children, here is a wonderful site with information on Celebrating Black History and another with great Black History Links.
To learn even more about the amazing lives, deeds and achievements of African-Americans, here are some other links.
Encyclopaedia Brittanica-Black History
Biography.com-Black History
We hope you will learn from, respect and remember these amazing people, and their accomplishments, throughout your life.
~Julie is a working wife and mom living outside of Chicago. She is always working to make sure her kids do not notice the color of a person’s skin; but, rather, the amazing colors other people can add to their lives.
