By Autumn McCargo
TERRE HAUTE — Carter Goodwin Woodson, a black author, editor, publisher and historian, was born in December 1875 and lived until April 1950. Woodson believed that African-Americans should know about their past in order to cooperate intelligently in the affairs of our country. Strongly he believed that African-American history is a firm foundation for young Black Americans.
He is known as the “Father of Black History” and held an important position in black history in early 20th century American history.
He was born in New Canton, Buckingham County, Va., to former slaves Anne Eliza Riddle and James Henry Woodson.
From 1897 to 1900 Woodson began teaching in Winona, Fayette County. As a career he became a known writer of the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (1915-1950). During his journey through life, Woodson developed an important philosophy of history. That is that history is more than political and military records of people and nations. It also includes some description of the social conditions of the period being studied.
Negro History Week was created by Woodson. He thought it was his most successful venture, though he knew a time would come where it would become unnecessary, when all Americans would willingly recognize the contributions of Black Americans.
It is important that African-Americans know about their heritage because the institution of slavery robbed them of their history and identity while myths and stereotypes took the place of their lost history.
What is Black History Month? It is the month to celebrate the progress of diversity of African-American achievement. Carter G. Woodson, an African-American, created and promoted Negro History Week. He chose the month of February because it included the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.
Autumn McCargo is a student at Terre Haute North Vigo High School. This essay was submitted as part of the Tribune-Star’s tribute to Black History Month.
