The History of Black History
Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as “Negro History Week” and later as “Black History Month.” What you might not know is that black history had barely begun to be studied-or even documented-when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America at least as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a respectable presence in the history books.
Source: Infoplease.com
Important Dates in Black History
W. E. B. DuBois, important civil rights leader and co-founder of the NAACP, was born.
The 15th Amendment was passed, granting blacks the right to vote.
The first black U.S. senator, Hiram R. Revels (1822-1901), took his oath of office.
The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was founded by a group of concerned black and white citizens in New York City.
In what would become a civil-rights movement milestone, a group of black Greensboro, N.C., college students began a sit-in at a segregated Woolworth’s lunch counter.
Malcolm X, the militant leader who promoted Black Nationalism, was shot to death by three Black Muslims.
