Carter G. Woodson (1875-1950)
The Father of Black History
Black History Month is an observance of the accomplishments and history of people of African descent. The origins of the observance can be traced back to 1926. Carter G. Woodson educator and scholar started what was known as Negro History Week. The African American experience was ignored in academic circles. African American history was made invisible. Carter G. Woodson decided to challenge this by founding the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. The organization was dedicated to the research and preservation of the history of people of African descent. Prior to 1915 other African American scholars attempted to preserve African American history through writings and research. Carter G. Woodson also produced many monographs which include Mis-Education of the Negro, Negro Makers of History, The History of the Negro Church, and A Century of Negro Migration. Black History Month does not only focus on African Americans, but Africans throughout the diaspora. Black History Month is observed in the UK and Canada (observed in October). Negro History Week was expanded to a month in 1976. The UK started to observe Black History Month in 1987 and Canada observed it by 1995.
There is controversy that surrounds Black History Month. The question is why reduce observance of a people's history to a month? Black History is part of world history. The problem with the study of history is a narrow eurocentric focus. Africa, Asia, and Latin America are either ignored or examined relative to European conquests. This is blatant racism and ethnocentrism. The purpose is to marginalize the non-white majority global population. When a conqueror dominates another ethnic group, they will present the ruling class as superior. This is why history has been distorted. That is why Black history needs to be incorporated into both high school and university curriculum. The world has become more complex and diverse. An extensive understanding of different people and places is needed to function in the world.
Pianki ruler of Egypt ( 25th Dynasty)
Pyramids of Meroe ( ancient period)
The migration routes out of Africa
Further Reading
Adams, Russell. Great Negroes Past and Present. Chicago : Afo-Am Publishing Company,1963.
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