February is Black
History Month, a time to focus the limelight on Americans of African descent. It started out as Negro History Week in 1926 with the aim
of educating Americans on African American history. It is also known as African-American History Month in the US. It is also celebrated in Canada in February.
In the United Kingdom, Black History Month is observed in October.
In
the US and Canada, different events and activities are staged throughout the
whole month of February in observance of Black History Month. In schools,
African American history is given much emphasis in all levels from elementary
to university level. Media, print, radio, television and the Internet have
their own programs centering on African American history and other related
subjects. Focus is placed on black Americans who have made their mark in
government, education, media, literature, medicine, business, sports, and other
important fields. Their contributions serve as inspirations to fellow African
Americans and non-African Americans.
