The Library of Congress is an excellent source of information in many areas, including the Black experience and civil rights.
Some prominent Black history stories include: the life of Martin Luther King Jr. as a civil rights leader, Harriet Tubman’s heroic role in the Underground Railroad, where she was nicknamed “Moses”, the story of Jesse Owens winning gold medals at the Olympics in Nazi Germany, Marian Anderson’s fight against segregation as a world-class singer, Shirley Chisholm becoming the first Black woman elected to Congress, and Jackie Robinson breaking barriers in Major League Baseball as the first African American player;. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]
Other notable stories include: [7]
[1] https://www.blackillustrations.com/blog/celebrating-black-history
[2] https://www.buzzfeed.com/madisonmcgee/black-historical-figures
[3] https://www.savethechildren.org/us/charity-stories/black-history-month-reading-list-children-books
[4] https://www.commonlit.org/blog/10-reading-passages-celebrating-african-americans-de9d500c3e2/
[5] https://kinginstitute.stanford.edu/robinson-jackie
[6] https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/1510/
[9] https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/entertainment/g32842006/black-history-books/
[11] https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/little-leaders-bold-women-in-black-history
List of web links for Black History Month, categorized for easy navigation:
Educational Resources:
Inspiring Figures:
Local Resources:
Additional Resources:
By sharing these resources, you can help educate and inspire your community about the rich history and contributions of African Americans.
Art manifests the spirit of African American history, narrating stories filled with passion and encouraging change. As we explore Black heritage, let us honor these creative outlets that document and express our collective journey. Through painting, literature, music, and dance, art provides insight into the vibrant cultures that shape our lives.
Join us for an enchanting evening that celebrates the artistic contributions of African Americans. This event showcases a variety of performances that encapsulate the beauty and struggles faced throughout history. Be ready to experience art that evokes deep emotions and delivers powerful messages.
Dive into a realm of storytelling as we present narratives that resonate with the African American experience. Witness how these artistic forms transition from the past into our contemporary lives and appreciate their ongoing influence.
Experience the melodies that gave voice to movements and celebrate the contributions of historic and contemporary musicians. Enjoy performances that not only entertain but shed light on rich cultural narratives.
Join us to celebrate the written word and hear the powerful voices behind influential literature. Explore how the written stories of Black authors have shaped culture and inspired generations. We invite you to share in their messages of resilience and hope.
The Great Migration (1916-1970) refers to the mass movement of African Americans from the rural South to urban areas in the North and West. It unfolded in two main waves:
First Wave (1916-1940): This was driven by the need for better economic opportunities, escaping Jim Crow segregation, and fleeing racial violence in the South. African Americans sought jobs in industrial cities like Chicago, Detroit, and New York, where the demand for labor in factories was high, especially during World War I.
Second Wave (1941-1970): Following World War II, the migration continued, but now it was also fueled by better educational opportunities, civil rights activism, and the rise of the Civil Rights Movement. Many moved to cities like Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Boston, seeking a better quality of life and freedom from systemic racism.
Impact:
This movement fundamentally altered the cultural, political, and social landscape of the United States and left a lasting legacy on Black identity and American society
Black athletes were not aloud to compete with, against, or train with White people. So Black people formed their own leagues and teams.
Segregation in sports during the 20th century, particularly up to 1985, was a complex issue reflecting the broader racial tensions and discriminatory practices prevalent in society.1 Here’s an overview:
Early 20th Century (1900-1940s):
Mid-20th Century (1940s-1960s):
Late 20th Century (1970s-1985):
Key Figures and Events:
Additional Considerations:
The history of segregation in sports is a testament to the struggles and triumphs of athletes who fought for equality. While significant progress has been made, the legacy of segregation continues to impact sports today, highlighting the ongoing need for diversity, inclusion, and social justice.