Black History Month is an annual observance in February of the achievements and culture of African Americans. It coincides with the birthdays of the black leader Frederick Douglass (February 14) and of U.S. President Abraham Lincoln (February 12).
The idea for an observance honoring the accomplishments of African Americans led to the establishment of Negro History Week in 1926. It was proposed by Carter G. Woodson, a black historian known as the Father of Black History, and others. The observance became known as Black History Week during the early 1970's. It was established as Black History Month in 1976.
The celebration is sponsored by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). Woodson founded the association in 1915. Each year, the ASALH designates a theme.
"Black History Month." World Book Student. World Book, 2016. Web. 19 Jan. 2016.
For other resources, visit these sites:
The Black Past: Remembered & Reclaimed
BrainPop® including Teacher Resources
Coloring Book Fun
FamilyEducation
History.com's Black History Facts
Museum of African American History
PBS Parents