Carter G. Woodson, American historian, author, and journalist, founded Black History Month (b. 1875)

Carter Godwin Woodson, born on December 19, 1875, and departing on April 3, 1950, stands as an indelible figure in American history. More than just an American historian, author, and journalist, he was a true visionary who fundamentally reshaped how the world understood the African diaspora. Often celebrated as the "father of black history," Woodson's dedication led to the establishment of foundational institutions and traditions that continue to impact our understanding and appreciation of African American heritage today.

A Challenging Start and an Extraordinary Educational Journey

Woodson's story began in a humble setting in Virginia, where he was born the son of former slaves. His early life was marked by hardship and perseverance; formal schooling had to be postponed as he dedicated his youth to working in the demanding coal mines of West Virginia. This difficult start, however, only fueled his insatiable thirst for knowledge. Demonstrating immense determination, he eventually gained an education, graduating from Berea College. His academic journey didn't stop there; he went on to become a teacher and a school administrator, driven by a passion to uplift and educate.

His pursuit of higher education was nothing short of remarkable. Woodson earned graduate degrees from the University of Chicago and, in 1912, achieved a monumental feat: he became the second African American, following the esteemed W. E. B. Du Bois, to obtain a PhD degree from Harvard University. What makes this accomplishment even more profound is that Woodson remains the only person whose parents were enslaved in the United States to obtain such a distinguished doctorate, a testament to his extraordinary intellect and unwavering resolve against the odds.

The Architect of African American History: From Scholarship to Celebration

Dr. Woodson's academic prowess was soon channeled into a lifelong mission to ensure the history of African Americans was not only recognized but also meticulously studied and celebrated. He became one of the very first scholars to meticulously research the history of the African diaspora, including the rich and often-overlooked tapestry of African American history.

In 1915, he founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), an organization dedicated to promoting, researching, preserving, and disseminating information about Black life, history, and culture. A year later, in 1916, he launched The Journal of Negro History, a groundbreaking scholarly publication that provided an essential platform for academic research and discourse on the subject. These initiatives were crucial in institutionalizing the study of Black history at a time when it was largely ignored by mainstream academia.

Perhaps his most widely recognized contribution came in February 1926, when he initiated the celebration of "Negro History Week." This pioneering event was the direct precursor to what we now observe annually as Black History Month. His vision was to encourage the coordinated teaching and study of Black history in schools and communities, believing that knowledge of one's past was essential for self-esteem and racial progress. What started as a week has since evolved into a month-long national observance, profoundly impacting cultural consciousness and ensuring that the stories and achievements of African Americans are interwoven into the broader American narrative.

While he taught at historically Black colleges such as Howard University and West Virginia State University, Woodson spent the majority of his career in Washington, D.C. There, he tirelessly managed the ASALH, dedicated himself to public speaking, prolific writing, and extensive publishing, all in service of his mission to elevate and educate the world about the pivotal role of African Americans throughout history.

FAQs About Carter G. Woodson

Who was Carter G. Woodson?
Carter G. Woodson was a pivotal American historian, author, and journalist, widely known as the "father of black history." He dedicated his life to studying and promoting African American history, establishing the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) and creating "Negro History Week," the precursor to Black History Month.
Why is Carter G. Woodson called the "father of black history"?
He earned this esteemed title for his relentless efforts in institutionalizing the study of African American history. His founding of the ASALH, the influential Journal of Negro History, and his initiation of "Negro History Week" (which evolved into Black History Month) were monumental in establishing and validating African American history as a legitimate field of study and public celebration.
What is Carter G. Woodson's most significant contribution?
While all his contributions are significant, his most widely recognized legacy is undoubtedly the establishment of "Negro History Week," which blossomed into what we now celebrate every February as Black History Month. This initiative transformed the way African American history is taught and celebrated nationwide.
What was Carter G. Woodson's educational background?
Despite starting his career working in West Virginia coal mines, Woodson pursued a remarkable educational path. He graduated from Berea College, earned graduate degrees from the University of Chicago, and, in 1912, became the second African American to obtain a PhD from Harvard University.
Did Carter G. Woodson have any unique educational distinctions?
Yes, he holds the unique distinction of being the only person whose parents were enslaved in the United States to obtain a PhD degree, highlighting his extraordinary achievement against the backdrop of systemic adversity.