It's the most important month of the year. .yup you guessed it BLACK HISTORY MONTH! It is the time of the year when African-American scholars and political leaders will re-echo the contributions African-Americans have made to the development of the United States and the world in general. In essence, this is time of the year when all blacks, be they African- Americans, Haitians, Liberians, Nigerians and all people of color need to reflect on their African heritage, culture and how far they have come in understanding the struggles and sacrifices others have made during the days of yesteryears in America.
Barack Obama
Barack Obama isn’t just the 44th president of the United States but he also happens to be the first African-American to hold the job. He is a wonderful role model for all kids, of any color and he is still making history.
Jackie Robinson
Back in 1947 Jackie Robinson had the distinction of being the first African American to play in Major League Baseball. He was a Brooklyn Dodger and in paving the way for hundreds of players after him he endured mistreatment not just from his teammates but the fans. But he stood strong against the angst.
Martin Luther King Jr.
In January we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. with his own day. But it’s never a bad thing to revisit this important orator, civil rights leader and icon.
Rosa Parks
Back in 1955 Rosa Parks performed a subtle and simple but historical significant act. She sat down on the bus. The seamstress didn’t give up her seat which was the policy at the time. She was tired and tired of “giving in.” This act helped start the civil rights movement.
Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela has led a fascinating life. After protesting, fighting and tirelessly trying to get equality for his fellow South Africans he was jailed for 27 years. After much struggle, he was finally released and then went on to become president of the country!
Booker T. Washington
Booker T. Washington was a pivotal figure in education. After working hard to get his own schooling, he went on to teach, fight for education and work to change the way Americans, especially African American’s are taught.
Frederick Douglass
Known for his autobiography the Life and Times of Frederick Douglass that was published 1845, the ex-slave became an important figure and was a consultant to President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War.
George Washington Carver
Born to slaves, George Washington Carver went on to revolutionize the farming industry. He made a great impact on the agriculture industry in America.
Harriet Tubman
Harriet Tubman was one of the great figures of the Underground Railroad. During her 20 trips, she reportedly freed approx. 300 slaves.
Sojourner Truth
Originally named Isabella Baumfree, Sojourner Truth was born to slaves but after much turmoil she escaped. She got involved in the abolitionist movement and then the women’s suffrage movement.
P.S. I'd love to add our first African-American President to the picture above. OBAMA !
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