In 1926, Negro History Week was created by historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. This paved the way for Black History Month as we know it today. The main goal of this event was to promote the teaching of Black American history in schools, especially at the primary level. While it initially received a lukewarm response, Woodson considered it a success.

In 1969, Black students and educators at Kent State University put forth the idea of Black History Month. The first celebration took place on campus and in the surrounding area the following year. Over time, Black History Month gained widespread recognition and was celebrated not only in educational institutions but also in community centers nationwide. In 1976, President Gerald Ford voiced his support for the holiday, urging everyone to honor the often overlooked accomplishments of Black Americans throughout history.

Education plays a crucial role in this holiday, with a focus on providing opportunities for Black students. Many organizations offer scholarships to support their education. Scholaroo, for instance, maintains a comprehensive database of scholarships specifically for Black students. https://scholaroo.com/black-scholarships/  However, the creation of Black History Month was not without controversy. Some criticized the idea of confining the celebration of Black history to just one month, while others worried it might oversimplify the contributions of Black historical figures by portraying them solely as heroes.