Black History Month Series: Dr. Carter G. Woodson (Father of Black History Month)
By: Vennisa Owusu-Barfi
In the tapestry of history, there are individuals whose passion and dedication reshape our understanding of the past, influencing generations to come. Carter G. Woodson, born on December 19, 1875, in New Canton, Virginia, stands as one such luminary. A trailblazing historian, educator, and the architect of Black History Month, Woodson's journey from the coal mines of West Virginia to the hallowed halls of academia is a testament to resilience, scholarship, and a relentless commitment to rectifying the historical neglect of Black contributions. Let's embark on a journey through his life, exploring the roots of his mission, the establishment of Black History Month, and the enduring legacy that continues to shape our collective consciousness.
Portrait of Dr. Carter G. Woodson | Source: West Virginia Public Broadcasting
The Formative Years
Woodson's early life reads like a story of triumph over adversity. Born to formerly enslaved parents, he weathered the challenges of poverty and limited access to education. Working in coal mines to support his family, he didn't enter high school until the age of 20. Undeterred, he completed his diploma in record time, setting the stage for a remarkable academic journey.
Woodson's pursuit of knowledge led him to Berea College in Kentucky, the University of Chicago, and ultimately, Harvard University, where he became the second African American to earn a Ph.D. after W.E.B. Du Bois. His academic prowess and commitment to the Black narrative manifested in founding the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History in 1915, which aimed to rectify the distorted portrayal of Black history perpetuated by mainstream historians.
Source: history.com
Championing Black Achievements
Woodson, cognizant of the importance of preserving and celebrating Black history, launched the Journal of Negro History in 1916. This scholarly publication became a cornerstone for research and discourse on Black contributions, evolving into the Journal of African American History in 2002. Woodson's conviction that Black Americans should take pride in their heritage laid the foundation for his impactful initiatives.
In 1924, Woodson leveraged his influence within the Omega Psi Phi fraternity to introduce Negro History and Literature Week. This initiative was a precursor to his groundbreaking decision to establish Negro History Week in February 1926. Woodson strategically chose February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, prominent figures in Black history. Over time, this week evolved into the now-recognized Black History Month, a testament to Woodson's foresight and enduring influence.
A Young Dr. Carter G. Woodson
Legacy Beyond a Month
Woodson's legacy extends far beyond the confines of February. His prolific writing, including works like "The Mis-Education of the Negro," challenged the systemic biases within the education system. He founded Associated Publishers, a company dedicated to producing books on Black life and culture, further amplifying Black voices in literature.
Carter G. Woodson, the "father of Black history," carved a path for future generations to embrace and celebrate their heritage. His dedication to education, preservation, and empowerment laid the groundwork for a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of Black contributions. As we commemorate Black History Month each February, let us reflect on the visionary who ignited the flame, ensuring that the stories of Black achievement continue to shine brightly in the annals of history.
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