Carter G. Woodson (1875–1950) was an American historian, author, and journalist, widely known as the “Father of Black History

Carter G. Woodson (1875–1950) was an American historian, author, and journalist, widely known as the “Father of Black History

Carter G. Woodson (1875–1950) was an American historian, author, and journalist, widely known as the “Father of Black History.” He played a crucial role in the documentation and celebration of African American history and culture.

Key Contributions:

1. Founded Negro History Week (1926) – This later became Black History Month in 1976.
2. Co-founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) (1915) – A key organization for preserving Black history.
3. Wrote “The Mis-Education of the Negro” (1933) – A landmark book criticizing the lack of Black history in education and encouraging self-reliance.
4. First African American of former slave parentage to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard University (1912).
5. Worked to include Black history in school curriculums – He believed that African Americans needed to know their own history to uplift their communities.

Legacy:

• His work laid the foundation for modern African American studies.
• Black History Month is celebrated in his honor every February.
• Schools, institutions, and awards are named after him.