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In the United States, February is celebrated as Black History Month. This month is set aside to recognize and celebrate the achievements and contributions of black Americans.
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Introduction
Black History Month is celebrated every February in the United States. The monthlong celebration pays tribute to the contributions and achievements of black Americans throughout history.
The idea for Black History Month was first proposed by Carter G. Woodson, a black historian and educator, in 1926. At the time, Woodson chose the second week of February to honor the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, two men who he felt had made significant contributions to the advancement of black Americans.
Over the years, the celebration has evolved and grown to encompass the entire month of February. Today, Black History Month is observed across the country through a variety of events and activities, including lectures, concerts, exhibitions, films, and more.
A Brief History of Black History Month
black history research diminishes the contributions of other racial and ethnic groups.”
In response to this criticism, some school districts have created sensitivity training for staff and students and have expanded their curriculum to include the histories of a variety of minority groups.
Black History Month is celebrated in February in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It is also celebrated during October in France, Germany, The Netherlands, and Switzerland.
The Significance of Black History Month
Black History Month is an annual celebration of the achievements and contributions of black Americans. The monthlong event is observed throughout the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
In the United States, Black History Month traces its roots back to 1926, when historian Carter G. Woodson established Negro History Week. The weeklong celebration was later expanded to include the entire month of February.
Black History Month is celebrated in February in part because it marks the anniversary of the start of the Abolition Movement in the United States. In 1807, British lawmakers passed legislation that abolished the slave trade within the British Empire.
Black History Month is also celebrated in February because it coincides with the birthday of two important figures in African American history: Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.
Frederick Douglass was born into slavery in Maryland in 1818 and went on to become one of the most important figures in the abolitionist movement. He was also an accomplished writer and orator who helped advance the cause of civil rights for all Americans.
Abraham Lincoln, who was born in Kentucky in 1809, served as the 16th president of the United States from 1861 to 1865. During his time in office, Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which freed all slaves living within rebel states at that time. He also played a key role in passing legislation that led to the abolition of slavery throughout America.
Celebrating Black History Month provides an opportunity for people of all races to learn about and recognize the significant accomplishments and contributions made by black Americans throughout history.
The Controversy Surrounding Black History Month
There is some controversy surrounding the celebration of Black History Month. Some people feel that it is unnecessary and that black history should be celebrated year-round. Others feel that it is a way to remember and honor the achievements of black Americans.
Some people also argue that Black History Month is a way to segregated blacks from the rest of American society. They feel that black history should be included in American history textbooks and not treated as a separate history.
What do you think? Is Black History Month necessary? Should it be celebrated year-round?
Conclusion
Black History Month is celebrated in February because it is the month that Abraham Lincoln was born and it is also the month that Frederick Douglass died.
