Black History Month
Celebrating Each Story
"I fought for my country, because I love my country"
Let one family’s story inspire you to deeper discussions around civil rights and patriotism, and how we can remember and honor heroes who may have experienced prejudice while dedicating their lives to our country. Download to get access to our full activity lesson plan.
Celebrating African American Heroes
Black History Month celebrates the achievements of African Americans and recognizes their contributions to society. Photo credit: Jeffry Willadsen. 2015. Everett, WA, USA.
Origins of Black History Month
The origins of Black History Month can be traced back to the early 20th century. In 1926, historian Carter G. Woodson, along with the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, announced the second week of February as “Negro History Week” in order to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. The event was intended to promote awareness of African American contributions to history and to combat the widely held notion that Black people had no history worth studying.
Negro History Week became a popular annual observance and was officially recognized by the U.S. government in the 1970s when it was expanded to become Black History Month. President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976, calling upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
Since then, Black History Month has been celebrated annually with various events and programs, including lectures, panel discussions, cultural events, and more. It has served as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for civil rights and the contributions of Black people to the history and culture of the United States and beyond.
Did you Know?
Did you Know? Facts about African Americans in the Military
- Black service members have fought in every single American conflict, including the American Revolution.
- As of 2020, Black Soldiers comprised approximately 21% of the active-duty Army, 15% of the Army National Guard, and 21% of the Army Reserve. Black Americans have served in the Army at a rate that is higher than their representation in the U.S. population.
- Among the first U.S. regiments to arrive in France for World War 1 was the 369th Infantry, an all-black regiment known as the “Harlem Hellfighters.” They fought in France for a total of 191 days in combat, longer than any other American unit in WWI.
Tuskegee Airmen (circa May 1942 to Aug 1943) were the first Black military aviators in the U.S. Army Air Corps (now the U.S. Air Force) during World War II. They fought in Europe and North Africa and were known for their bravery and skill as fighter pilots. Photo credit: 1942. US Air Force.
The Montford Point Marines (above) were the first Black Marines in the U.S. Marine Corps. They trained at Camp Montford Point in North Carolina during World War II. These Marines broke down barriers and paved the way for future generations of African Americans in the Marine Corps. Photo credit: 1943. Lance Cpl. Kris Daberkoe. Camp Lejeune, NC, US
Famous African American Veterans
Colin Powell: Powell is a retired four-star general who served as the first Black U.S. Secretary of State under President George W. Bush. He also served as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the highest military position in the U.S. armed forces. Powell served in the U.S. Army for 35 years, rising through the ranks to become a general.
Doris Miller: Miller was a messman in the U.S. Navy who became a hero during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. He manned a machine gun and shot down several Japanese planes, despite having no formal training as a gunner. Miller was the first African American to be awarded the Navy Cross.
Benjamin O. Davis Jr.: Davis was a pioneering African American officer in the U.S. Army Air Corps (now the U.S. Air Force). He became the first Black general officer in the Air Force, and he also served as the first African American general in any of the U.S. armed forces.
———
These are just a few examples of the many African American veterans who have made important contributions to the military and to American history.
See other holiday resources
See all activities and lesson plans available: