Most people probably know that February is Black History Month, but it is important to just be aware of the tradition behind this celebration. Black History Month is about acknowledging black lives who made an inspiration.

It is important for all people to know the historical events and black Americans who have shaped the country. 

It all started back in in the summer of 1915  when an event was held in Chicago, Illinois celebrating the history of blacks. Carter G. Woodson, who will be later known as  Father of Black History, traveled from Washington D.C. to Chicago to be a part of the celebration of 50 years of the emancipation. The event highlighted the progress of black people since slavery was abolished. It was such a big turnout, with thousands of people coming from all over the country, that it inspired Woodson to form an organization that would help amplify black life. 

February 7, 1926, Carter G. Woodson started the first week as the celebration of black history. Later on, Woodson felt like one week of celebration wasn’t enough to recognize black history. It was said that Carter G. Woodson chose the month February for numerous reasons such as reform and tradition, but one could be because of two great Americans whose birthdays are in the month of February. Both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass birthdays are celebrated in the month. The inspiration came from celebrating two great men to celebrating a race. It is known that Lincoln freed the slaves, which helped the freedom of the black race, but it was more than that for Woodson. It was people making history not just a single man. The month was to highlight to black race who made history in the improvement of life and who have contributed to the advancement of human civilization. Woodons believed that blacks should learn about their past to be able to participate in the affairs of today within the country. 

In the 1960s there was a shift with much talk and action, and eventually Black History month was extended out to the entire month of February to expand the study. In 1976 the success to black history from being a week to the entire month of February. 

Blacks have always been the oppressed race, and it continues today. This month is just taking one month to acknowledge what blacks have done in history. There were people who had to stand up for what they believed in when others stayed seated. There were people who had to make a decision for their own life for change. It is about appreciating the history of the ancestors who went through hardship so each person can be where they are now. Civilization wouldn’t be like it if it wasn’t for the black race of people. Just apprehending Black History Month is essential because it is about the race that went forward, making their own way.