Why Is Black History The Shortest Month??
Is Black History in February because its the shortest month of the year??
Short answer: No.
Black History Month originally began as Negro History Week in 1926. It took place during the second week of February because it coincided with the birthdates of Frederick Douglass a Black Abolitionist, and Republican President, Abraham Lincoln.
Carter G. Woodson, a Harvard-trained historian is credited with the creation of Negro History Week. Having studied history for many years and seeing that so much of our victorious History has been literally written out of the history books, came up with an idea of how to incorporate these truths back into the fabric of America's story. In the early 70's many black people started celebrating the whole month of February. In 1976, the bicentennial of the United States, President Gerald R. Ford expanded the week into a full month.
It is important to note that when Carter G. Woodson started Negro History Week, his intention was not for this to be a forever thing. He believed that one day Black History would be so ingrained in our education system that it would become simply, American History. Today we know that there is still so much of this history that is hidden and unknown, but hopefully we will see the day where we will learn Truth in our History and it will be just that, History.
The Why?
Why has so much of Black History been erased?
Short answer: Woodrow Wilson
Woodrow Wilson (D) may not be the only reason but he's a big one. Woodrow Wilson, the 28th president of the United States, was known for being this great historian and wrote many books on the subject. When it came time for a new history curriculum, it was decided to write it after Wilson's work. This seemed like a wonderful idea, he was a revered president and a notable historian. Unfortunately, he was also an atheist and a eugenist. His work included writings of grandeur for the white man, and one of defeat, submission, and slavery for other races especially the black man. All of those who overcame their obstacles and rose up from slavery, like Wentworth Cheswill, Madam CJ Walker, and James Armistead were seemingly erased, along with any acknowledgements of God.