Black History Month
Black history month originated in 1926. This historical month was once celebrated as only one week. This special week was organized by a man named Carter G. Woodson.This Harvard graduates father was a former slave, and in telling his son stories form his past Woodson decided to then on dedicating his life to Black History. With this ambition at mind he organized the memorable week. He chose the second week in February because of important birthdays of Black supporters from the past. These supporters included Frederick Douglas and Abraham Lincoln
Blacks have had a influential part in Americas History. There has been many influential Black leaders in the past. These people help start the motivation for Blacks to become part of our history. These people include L. Douglas Wilder who was the first elected Black governor, Joseph Rainey, who was the first U.S. Representative, Hiram Revels who became the first U.S. Senator, Robert C. Weaver who became the first U.S. cabinet member, and Colin Powell the first Secretary of State. These people made a great impact throughout our governmental system.
There has been many influential Black sports figures throughout the past. These people include Jackie Robinson who was the first black baseball player, Willie Thrower who was the first NFL quarterback, Fritz Pollard who was the first Black NFL Coach, Tiger Woods who was the first Black golf champion, and Jack Johnson who was the first Black heavyweight boxing champion. These are just some of the hundreds of influential blacks throughout History.