As we delve into the essence of Black History Month, it’s a time to immerse ourselves in the profound narratives that have been woven into the fabric of American history. This month serves as a reminder, illuminating the remarkable contributions, innovations, and resilience of African Americans.
Their indelible impact spans across science, politics, arts, and beyond, shaping not just a community but the nation as a whole. Celebrating Black History Month allows us to acknowledge and honor these contributions, understanding that the achievements of African Americans are pivotal chapters in the story of humanity.
In this post, and continuing with our Black History Month resources for teachers, we uncover a selection of Black History Month facts that offer a glimpse into the extraordinary journeys and legacies that continue to inspire generations.
Facts about Black History Month
Here are some amazing facts about Black History Month
1. Language and Identity
The discourse on racial identity, particularly the use of “Black” over “African American,” reflects a deeper understanding of identity within the African diaspora. This section explores the significance of nomenclature in acknowledging the rich, diverse experiences of Black individuals globally, and the importance of capitalizing the “B” in “Black” as a form of respect and recognition of a shared history and identity.
- The term “Black” is increasingly preferred as it encompasses a broader and more inclusive identity, recognizing individuals from the African diaspora globally. This includes not just African Americans but also those from the Caribbean, Latin America, and other regions, acknowledging the diverse experiences and histories of Black people beyond the United States. The term “African American” specifically refers to Black Americans with African ancestry, which may not accurately represent the identity of Black people who cannot trace their lineage directly to Africa due to the historical impacts of the slave trade or those from other parts of the world.
- The capitalization of the “B” in “Black” has been adopted by major publications and style guides, including the Associated Press in June 2020, as a means of recognizing the shared history, identity, and community among people who identify as Black.
2. Origins of Black History Month, NAACP
Black History Month’s inception and the establishment of the NAACP are pivotal moments in African American history. This section delves into the origins of this annual celebration and the founding of an organization dedicated to fighting racial prejudice, marking significant milestones in the journey toward equality and justice.
- Black History Month began as “Negro History Week” in 1926, created by Carter G. Woodson, and expanded to a month-long celebration in 1976.
- The NAACP was founded on February 12, 1909, in response to the 1908 race riots in Springfield, Illinois, marking the centennial anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth.
3. Famous Lawyers, Activists, Scientists, and Politicians
This section highlights the remarkable contributions of African American leaders who have broken barriers and paved the way for future generations. Their stories of resilience, brilliance, and courage underscore the profound impact of Black individuals in shaping the legal, scientific, and political landscapes of the United States and beyond.
- John Mercer Langston became the first Black man to pass the bar in Ohio in 1854 and one of the first African Americans elected to public office in America.
- Rosa Parks and Claudette Colvin played crucial roles in sparking the civil rights movement through their refusal to give up bus seats to white passengers.
- Thurgood Marshall was appointed as the first African American U.S. Supreme Court Justice, serving from 1967 to 1991.
- Hiram Rhodes Revels was the first African American elected to the U.S. Senate.
- Shirley Chisholm was the first African American woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and the first major party African American candidate for president.
- Dr. Patricia Bath revolutionized the field of ophthalmology with her invention of the Laserphaco Probe in 1986, making her the first African American female doctor to receive a medical patent.
- Lonnie G. Johnson, an engineer and inventor, developed the Super Soaker water gun, which became one of the most popular toys in the world.
- Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28, 1963, which became a defining moment in the Civil Rights Movement.
- The Little Rock Nine were a group of nine African American students who integrated Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1957, facing intense resistance but ultimately paving the way for school desegregation.
- Carol Moseley Braun became the first African American woman elected to the U.S. Senate in 1992, representing Illinois.
- Douglas Wilder of Virginia became the first African American elected governor in the United States in 1989.
- Barack Obama was elected as the first Black president of the United States in 2008.
- Kamala Harris became the first woman and first African American and South Asian vice president in January 2021.
4. Famous Black Athletes
The extraordinary achievements of Black athletes in breaking racial barriers and setting new standards of excellence are celebrated in this section. From boxing rings to baseball fields, tennis courts to golf courses, these athletes have not only dominated their sports but have also become symbols of strength, perseverance, and inspiration for people around the world.
- Jack Johnson was the first African American World Heavyweight Champion in boxing.
- Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball in 1947.
- Althea Gibson was the first African American woman to compete on the world tennis tour and to win a Grand Slam title.
- Serena Williams has won 23 Grand Slam singles titles, the most by any player in the Open Era, and is regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
- Tiger Woods became the first African American to win the Masters at Augusta in 1997, breaking numerous records in golf and becoming one of the sport’s most dominant players.
- Carter G. Woodson, often called the “Father of Black History,” earned a Ph.D. from Harvard University in 1912, becoming the second African American to earn a doctorate from the institution, after W.E.B. Du Bois.
- Phillis Wheatley became the first African American author to publish a book of poetry in 1773, titled “Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral.”
5. First Black Millionaire, Billionaire, and Oscar Winner
This section showcases the trailblazing successes of Black entrepreneurs and entertainers who achieved unprecedented milestones. Their stories of becoming millionaires, billionaires, and Oscar winners highlight the extraordinary talent and entrepreneurial spirit within the Black community, offering powerful narratives of achievement against the odds.
- Madam C.J. Walker became the first U.S. woman to be a self-made millionaire through her line of hair care products.
- Hattie McDaniel was the first African American to win an Academy Award in 1940.
- Robert Johnson became the first African American billionaire with the sale of BET in 2001.
- Sidney Poitier became the first Black actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor in 1964 for his role in “Lilies of the Field.”
- Misty Copeland made history in 2015 as the first African American woman to be promoted to principal dancer in the American Ballet Theatre’s 75-year history.
Related: Black History Topics and Themes
Final thoughts
Reflecting on these Black History Month facts, we are reminded of the relentless spirit, creativity, and strength of African Americans throughout history. Their stories are not just footnotes or chapters in textbooks; they are central to the narrative of progress and innovation in the United States and around the world. As we commemorate Black History Month, let us carry forward the lessons learned from these pioneers, activists, and visionaries.
Their lives and achievements encourage us to strive for a more inclusive, equitable, and compassionate world. It’s a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of recognizing the contributions of all individuals in the tapestry of our shared history. This month, and every month, we celebrate the enduring legacy and ongoing impact of African Americans across all aspects of society.
