Origin Of Black History Month

A Black History Month. “The Relationship Between the United States and It’s Black Citizens “ Black history was not always celebrated and it was Carter G Woodson who first set out in 1926 to educate people about Black history and culture. He is the “ father of black history”. In 1976, President Gerald Ford initiated black history month by extending the week long event to last a month. In his proclamation, Ford encouraged Americans to take time to “review with admiration the impressive contributions of Black Americans to Our National life and culture.” President Ford’s proclamation was more like repudiating African-Americans as part of life and culture of America.

A question to pose! Why 1926 as the Black History Beginnings? Why not the 1600s when enslaved Africans landed at Point Comfort , or before that when a blood pact between a whip and a black skin was enacted in the interiors of Yoruba-land or Kumasi or Fouta Djallon? The transatlantic trade meant to sow the start of cultural revolution in the Americans. The defiance of blacks in the cotton fields and sugar plantations was to change history down the road. I might vehemently argue that the first rap song rhymed in these fields. The blues too were first rehearsed beneath the full moon on these plantations. What i Mayweather is a reincarnation of a great wrestler who set first his foot on the Calhoun shores, towering with pride in shackles while comforting Kunta Kinte “our names will be penned in the greatest books of history.”

My point is , just like in the past during slavery, African immigrants will always be a crucial part of American black history. Their resilience in the face of obstacles and their impact on American society are a testament to their strength and determination. As we celebrate Black History Month, it is important to acknowledge and honor the contributions of African immigrants to the United States.

‍