To commemorate and celebrate the contributions to the American nation made by people of African descent, American historian Carter G. Woodson established Black History Week.
The first celebration occurred on Feb. 12, 1926. For many years, the second week of February was set aside for this celebration to coincide with the birthdays of abolitionist /editor Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.
In 1976, as part of America’s bicentennial, the week was expanded into Black History Month (BHM).
Each year, U. S. presidents proclaim February as National African-American History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating black history.
Each year beginning on February 1, an entire month of events are planned throughout the United States, honouring the history and contributions of African Americans.
More about Black History Month :
African-American history on Enchanted Learning
