ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - Black History Month celebrates African American life, history, and culture.

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) says it goes back to Feb. 1926. That’s when the “Father of Black History,” Dr. Carter G. Woodson, established Negro History Week in the second week of the month.

Historians say Woodson chose February to honor Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass—both born in February, and both played key roles in shaping Black history.

There were already celebrations that pre-dated Negro History Week, and Woodson didn’t want to create a new tradition. He wanted Americans to expand their study of Black history beyond one week—to make it year-round.

The 1960s brought dramatic change to how Black history was studied and celebrated, thanks to the civil rights movement.

In 1976, 50 years after the first celebration, President Gerald Ford officially recognized the significance of African American history and culture. The ASALH shifted from a week to a month and Negro history to Black history.

Now, 100 years later, communities come together to celebrate. Supporting Black businesses. Highlighting Black inventors. Honoring Black activists. And remembering those who made a lasting impact.

At WALB, throughout the month, we will be sharing stories from your community — stories of how you’re shaping and celebrating Black History.

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