|
Reproduced from the website of
Those who have no record of what their forebears have accomplished lose the inspiration which comes from the teaching of biography and history.
Carter Woodson
These are the words of Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson, distinguished Black author, editor, publisher, and historian (December 1875 - April 1950). Carter G. Woodson believed that Blacks should know their past in order to participate intelligently in the affairs in our country. He strongly believed that Black history - which others have tried so diligently to erase - is a firm foundation for young Black Americans to build on in order to become productive citizens of our society. |
Known as the "Father of Black History," Carter G. Woodson holds an outstanding position in early 20th century American history. Woodson authored many scholarly books on the positive contributions of Blacks to the development of America, and also published numerous magazine articles analyzing the contributions and role of Black Americans. He reached out to schools and the general public through the establishment of several key organizations and founded Negro History Week (precursor to Black History Month). His message was that Blacks should be proud of their heritage and that other Americans should also understand it.
Carter G. Woodson was born in New Canton, Buckingham County, Virginia, to former slaves Anne Eliza (Riddle) and James Henry Woodson. Although his parents could neither read nor write, Woodson credits his father for influencing the course of his life.
For the full article and more information, see here |
