Thematique | Black History Month
Black History
The precursor to Black History Month was “Negro History Week,” founded by historian Carter G. Woodson and celebrated for the first time in February 1926. The week-long observance was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglas, two influential figures in the fight against slavery and advocates for the rights of African Americans. Over time, the recognition and importance of Black history expanded, leading to the extension of Negro History Week to a whole month. In 1976 President Gerald Ford officially recognized February as Black History Month, urging Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
Shirley Jackson
She was an influential mathematician and computer scientist who significantly contributed to mathematics and computer programming. Her work at IBM and other institutions paved the way for advancements in computing technology.
Neil deGrasse Tyson
Sojourner Truth
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about the things that matter”
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INCLUSIVITY
DIVERSITY
EQUALITY
THE RISE OF BLACK POWER
The Rise of Black Power emerged as a powerful and transformative movement during the 1960s and 1970s. It was a response to the persistent racial inequalities and systemic oppression faced by Black communities in the United States. While the 1950s and 1960s civil rights movement aimed to achieve legal rights and equal treatment for African Americans, the Black Power movement sought to go beyond that and address the deeper issues of racial identity, self-determination, and community empowerment.
Black Consciousness
The rise of Black Power profoundly impacted the Black consciousness and inspired a new wave of activism and resistance. It encouraged reevaluating traditional civil rights strategies and called for a more radical and transformative approach to achieving racial equality. The movement also had a significant cultural impact, fostering the expression of Black identity through art, music, literature, and fashion.
Movement Prominent Figures
The movement was heavily influenced by prominent figures such as Malcolm X, Stokely Carmichael (later known as Kwame Ture), Angela Davis, and the Black Panther Party. These leaders emphasized the need for Black people to control their destinies and challenge the dominant narratives of white supremacy. They encouraged a sense of pride in Black culture, history, and heritage and called for an end to racial discrimination and institutionalized racism.
Black Power Impact
The Black Power movement significantly impacted the civil rights movement by introducing a more radical and assertive approach to fighting for racial equality. It challenged the limitations of the mainstream movement and focused on dismantling oppressive structures, promoting self-determination, and embracing Black pride. The movement influences the Civil Rights Movement by emphasizing community organizing, grassroots activism, economic self-sufficiency, and the right to self-defense. It expanded the conversation around racial justice and broadened the movement’s goals and strategies. The Black Power movement played a crucial role in shaping the Civil Rights movement and addressing the complexities of racial struggle.
PROMINENT FIGURES
The Civil Rights Movement in the mid-20th century marked a pivotal moment in Black history. Led by influential figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm Z, the movement sought to challenge racial segregation, secure voting rights, and demand equal treatment under the law. The efforts of civil rights activists led to landmark achievements such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, transforming the legal landscape and advancing the cause of racial equality.
A South African anti-apartheid revolutionary and politician, Nelson Mandela fought against racial segregation and became the country’s first black president, working towards reconciliation and equality.
He was a civil rights leader and activist who played a pivotal role in advancing racial equality through nonviolent protests and speeches, most notably his iconic ” I Have a Dream” speech.
Often called the “Mother of the Civil Rights Movement,” Rosa Parks sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott by refusing to give up her seat to a white passenger, symbolizing resistance against racial segregation.
Harriet Tubman, an abolitionist and conductor of the Underground Railroad, helped lead enslaved individuals to freedom in the North, risking her life to fight against slavery.
Malcolm X was a prominent human rights activist and spokesperson for the Nation of Islam. He advocated for Black pride, self-defense, and equality, making him a significant figure in the fight against racial injustice.
An abolitionist, writer, and orator. Frederick Douglass escaped slavery and became a leading voice in the fight against slavery and for civil rights.
An abolitionist and women ‘s rights activist, Sojourner Truth delivered powerful speeches advocating for the rights of enslaved individuals and women, significantly impacting the fight for equality.
Thurgood Marshall, the first African American Supreme Court Justice, fought for civil rights as a lawyer and played a crucial role in landmark cases that challenged racial segregation and discrimination.
BLACK HISTORY STORIES
Black history is rich with stories of resilience, triumph, and the pursuit of justice. These stories showcase the contributions and struggles of Black individuals throughout history, highlighting their impact on various fields and relentless fight for equality. Some notable Black history stories include:
CLAUDETTE COLVIN
An African American woman who, before Rosa Parks, refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama. Colvin’s act of defiance occurred nine months before Rosa Parks’ similar protest, but her story was not widely publicized then.
DANIEL H. WILLIAMS
An African American surgeon who performed one of the first successful open-heart surgeries. Williams founded Provident Hospital, the first interracial hospital in the United States, and was a pioneering figure in cardiac surgery.
MARY M. BETHUNE
Bethune was an African American educator, civil rights leader, and founder of Bethune-Cookman University. She advocated for racial and gender equality and advised several U.S. presidents, including Franklin D. Roosevelt.
JOHN LEWIS
A civil rights leader and politician who served as a U.S. Representative for Georgia’s 5th congressional district from 1987 until he died in 2020, Lewis was one of the “Big Six” leaders of the civil rights movement. He was crucial in organizing the 1963 March on Washington and was a lifelong advocate for nonviolent protest and social justice.
ALTHEA GIBSON
Gibson was an African American tennis player who broke racial barriers. She became the first black player to compete at the U.S. National Championships (now the U.S. Open) and Wimbledon and won multiple Grand Slam titles, paving the way for future generations of black athletes in tennis.
MAJOR TAYLOR
JESS OWENS
An African American track and field athlete, Owens won four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, undermining Adolf Hitler’s belief in Aryan racial superiority. His achievements made him a symbol of resilience and excellence in the face of racial discrimination.
IDA B. WELLS
An African American investigative journalist, educator, and early leader in the civil rights movement. Wells was a prominent anti-lynching activist and co-founder of the NAACP. She used her writing to expose and challenge racial injustice in the United States.
BLACK HISTORY BIOGRAPHIES
The African American biographies are files with individuals who have significantly contributed to various fields, including literature, civil rights, education, sports, science, and the arts. Their achievements have not only broken barriers and advanced their respective disciplines but also paved the way for future generations of African Americans to pursue their passions and excel in all areas of life.
BARACK OBAMA
BEN CARSON
GARRET MORGAN
DOROTHY JOHNSON
An African American mathematician and computer programmer who worked for NASA during the space race, Vaughan was one of the first African American women to work as a professional mathematician at NASA. He played a crucial role in the space program’s early days, particularly in implementing electronic computers.
SARAH BOONE
An African American inventor, Boone patented an improved ironing board design in 1892. Her design featured a narrower, curved shape and a padded surface, making it more effective and efficient for ironing women’s garments. Her invention revolutionized household chores and is still used today.
MAE JEMISON
Jemison was an American engineer, physician, and NASA astronaut who became the first African American woman to travel in space. In 1992, she flew aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour, making history and inspiring future generations of women and minorities to pursue science and space exploration careers.
LEONTYNE PRICE
An African American opera singer renowned for her powerful soprano voice and captivating stage presence. Price rose to international fame in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming one of the first African American opera singers to achieve widespread acclaim. She performed at leading opera houses worldwide and received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to the arts.
ALICE BALL
An African American chemist, Ball developed the first successful treatment for leprosy. Her method, known as the “Ball Method,” involved isolating the active compound in chaulmoogra oil and creating an injectable form more effectively treating the disease. Unfortunately, Ball’s life was cut short at the age of 24, but her groundbreaking work significantly improved the lives of leprosy patients.
BLACK & ECONOMIES
Throughout history, African Americans in the United States have faced immense struggles, including slavery, persecution, inequality, and racism. These challenges have contributed to a higher poverty rate among the Black population than other ethnic groups, with only a tiny percentage of African-American families considered millionaires. However, the 21st century has brought about a significant shift in the economic landscape. We are witnessing a notable change in today’s post-modern and highly globalized economy. There is a growing presence of wealthy black individuals who have defied the odds and achieved remarkable success. These individuals have overcome the barriers of institutional racism by embracing a mindset of resilience, fostering an entrepreneurial spirit, and actively engaging in extensive networking within the Black community. The rise of Black wealth and economic empowerment is a testament to the transformative power of determination and community support. It challenges prevailing stereotypes
BLACK & ENTREPRENEURSHIPS
Despite contemporary trends and the current climate, African Americans have a long history of entrepreneurship. Within two decades of abolition, African Americans established several thousand successful businesses that thrived exclusively in African American communities. However, escalating racial tensions and Jim Crow laws made these businesses vulnerable to targeting and destruction. With few resources available to black business owners to rebuild if their companies were targeted and destroyed, African American business ownership began to decline in the early 1940s. Black business ownership remained stagnant for several decades before resurging again in the early 1980s, and while growth has been slow, black business ownership has continued its upward trajectory ever since. The number of affluent black Americans is rising across the country, doubling over the last 25 years, particularly in “Black Mecca” cities like Atlanta, New York (Harlem), Houston, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Interestingly enough (and refreshing), they do not fit the mold of the stereotypical wealthy African American, pigeonholed as sports personalities, musicians, artists, or actors. This new Black upper class comprises entrepreneurs, property developers, realtors, and community advocates who persevere and display leadership qualities that have allowed them to succeed. Interestingly enough (and refreshing), they do not fit the mold of the stereotypical wealthy African American, pigeonholed as sports personalities, musicians, artists, or actors. This new Black upper class comprises entrepreneurs, property developers, realtors, and community advocates who persevere and display leadership qualities that have allowed them to succeed.
HERBERT WIGWE
Herbert was a highly respected Nigerian banker known for his transformative leadership in the financial sector. He became the Group Managing Director and CEO of Access Bank Plc. Under his guidance, Access Bank has experienced significant growth and innovation, expanding its operations across Africa. Wigwe was also dedicated to philanthropy and social impact initiatives, particularly education and entrepreneurship.
ROBERT F. SMITH
Robert F. Smith, born in 1962, is a prominent finance, technology, and philanthropy figure. Smith’s career soared at Goldman Sachs and Deutsche Bank before he founded Vista Equity Partners in 2000, revolutionizing private equity investing. Known for his unprecedented philanthropy, including paying off the student debt of a Morehouse College graduating class, Smith’s Fund II Foundation supports education and social causes.
MADAM C.J. WALKER
Madam C.J. Walker, the first female self-made millionaire in America, built a successful beauty and haircare business in the early 20th century. She paved the way for Black women in entrepreneurship and philanthropy.
ALIKO DANGOTE
Aliko Dangote, born in 1957 in Kano, Nigeria, is a renowned entrepreneur and Africa’s wealthiest individual. He founded the Dangote Group in 1977, which has become one of Africa’s largest conglomerates with interests in cement, sugar, flour, and more. Dangote’s leadership has revolutionized industries, particularly cement production, making Dangote Cement PLC the continent’s largest producer.
MELLODY HOBSON
Mellody Hobson is a prominent businesswoman and the co-CEO of Ariel Investments, one of the largest African-American-owned investment management firms in the United States. She is also a board member of several notable companies, including Starbucks and JPMorgan Chase, and has been recognized for her advocacy for financial literacy and diversity in corporate leadership.
OPRAH WINFREY
Oprah Winfrey, a media mogul, talk show host, actress, and philanthropist, has created an empire with her media company, Harpo Productions. She is recognized as one of the most influential women in the world.
JANICE B. HOWROYD
Janice Bryant Howroyd is an entrepreneur and business leader best known as the founder and CEO of The ActOne Group, one of the largest privately-held workforce management companies in the United States. Born in Tarboro, North Carolina, Howroyd built her company from the ground up, starting with a single office in Los Angeles in 1978. She expanded The ActOne Group to include multiple divisions offering staffing, consulting, and technology solutions, with a global presence spanning four continents.
KENNETH FRAZIER
Kenneth C. Frazier is a highly respected corporate executive known for his leadership at Merck & Co., Inc. Born in Philadelphia in 1954, Frazier earned degrees from Pennsylvania State University and Harvard Law School before joining Merck in 1992. Rising through the ranks, he became Chairman and CEO in 2011, overseeing significant growth and innovation in the pharmaceutical industry. Frazier is also noted for his advocacy for social justice and equality, using his platform to effect positive change.
REGINALD F. LEWIS
Reginald F. Lewis was a pioneering African American entrepreneur, lawyer, and investor. Born in 1942, he achieved prominence through his leveraged buyout of McCall Pattern Company in 1983, followed by the acquisition of Beatrice International Foods in 1987, making him the first African American to build a billion-dollar company. Lewis’ strategic vision and tenacity propelled him to success, cementing his legacy as a trailblazer in the business world.
CATHY HUGHES
Cathy Hughes is a pioneering media executive and entrepreneur recognized for her groundbreaking contributions to radio and television. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Hughes founded Radio One (now Urban One) in 1980, becoming the first African-American woman to head a publicly traded company. Under her leadership, Radio One grew into the largest African-American-owned and operated broadcast company in the United States. Hughes is also the founder of TV One, a television network dedicated to African-American and urban audiences.
URSULA BURNS
Ursula Burns is an American businesswoman who made history as the first African American woman to lead a Fortune 500 company. Born in New York City in 1958, Burns rose from humble beginnings to earn degrees in Mechanical Engineering. She began her career at Xerox Corporation and steadily climbed the ranks before becoming CEO in 2009. Burns spearheaded a transformation of Xerox into a digital technology and services leader, earning recognition as one of Forbes’ “World’s Most Powerful Women.”
BLACK & ENTERTAINMENT / SPORTS
ENTERTAINMENT
Black contributions to the entertainment industry have been immense and groundbreaking, shaping popular culture and influencing generations. Black artists, entertainers, and creatives have made significant strides across various entertainment mediums, including films, music, television, theater, and sports. Their contributions have entertained audiences worldwide, challenged stereotypes, sparked cultural conversations, and brought about more excellent representation and diversity in the industry, from pioneers like Sidney Poitier and Hattie McDaniel to contemporary stars like Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, and Chadwick Boseman. Directors like Spike Lee, Ava DuVernay, and Ryan Coogler have brought powerful stories and perspectives to the screen, addressing social issues and promoting Black narratives. Icons such as Louis Armstrong, Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, Beyonce, and Kendrick Lamar have succeeded commercially and used their platforms to advocate for social justice and uplift Black voices. Shows like “The Cosby Show,” ” The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” and “Black-ish” have challenged stereotypes and showcased the diversity of Black experiences. Black playwriters, directors, and performers have contributed to the richness of storytelling and cultural expression in theatre. From August Wilson’s powerful plays exploring the African-American experience to the impact of Broadway productions like “Hamilton” by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Black theater artists continue to push boundaries and create impactful work.
FOREST WHITAKER
Forest Whitaker is an Academy Award-winning actor, director, and producer known for his compelling performances in films such as “The Last King of Scotland,” “Bird,” and “Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai.” Whitaker’s talent and versatility have earned him widespread acclaim and recognition as one of the most accomplished actors of his generation.
LAURENCE FISHBURNE
Laurence Fishburne is an esteemed actor and producer known for his commanding presence and powerful performances on stage and screen. He has starred in iconic films such as “The Matrix” trilogy, “Boyz n the Hood,” and “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” earning critical acclaim and numerous awards throughout his career.
SAMUEL JACKSON
Samuel L. Jackson is a highly acclaimed American actor known for his versatile performances and commanding presence on screen. Rising to fame in the early 1990s, Jackson has portrayed many characters in blockbuster films, earning critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including an Academy Award nomination. Beyond his acting career, Jackson is known for his distinctive voice and social activism. Jackson captivates audiences worldwide with his iconic performances and unwavering commitment to his craft.
JAMIE FOXX
Jamie Foxx is an accomplished actor, comedian, singer, and producer known for his versatility and talent in various entertainment mediums. He has starred in films such as Ray, Django Unchained, and Collateral and has won critical acclaim and numerous awards for his performances.
DON CHEADLE
Don Cheadle is a versatile actor, producer, and humanitarian known for his impactful performances in films like “Hotel Rwanda,” “Crash,” and the Marvel Cinematic Universe as James “Rhodey” Rhodes/War Machine. He is also known for his activism and philanthropy, advocating for causes such as environmental conservation and human rights.
SIDNEY POITIER
Sidney Poitier was a Bahamian-American actor, film director, and diplomat. He was the first African-American to win the Academy Award for Best Actor and was recognized for his performances in films like “Lilies of the Field” and “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.” Poitier’s impact on Hollywood and civil rights is profound, as he broke barriers and challenged stereotypes throughout his career.
DANNY GLOVER
Danny Glover is an acclaimed actor, producer, and humanitarian known for his roles in films such as the “Lethal Weapon” series, “The Color Purple,” and “Dreamgirls.” Beyond his acting career, Glover is a passionate advocate for social justice, human rights, and labor issues, actively involved in various charitable organizations and political causes.
EDDIE MURPHY
Eddie Murphy is a legendary comedian, actor, and filmmaker renowned for his comedic talents and versatile performances. He rose to fame on “Saturday Night Live” before starring in blockbuster films like “Beverly Hills Cop,” “Coming to America,” and “The Nutty Professor.” Murphy’s influence on comedy and entertainment spans generations, making him one of the most iconic figures in Hollywood history.
CHADWICK BOSEMAN
Chadwick Boseman was an immensely talented actor known for his powerful performances in films such as “42,” “Get On Up,” and “Black Panther.” His portrayal of T’Challa/Black Panther in the Marvel Cinematic Universe captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Boseman’s impact extended beyond the screen as he became a symbol of strength, dignity, and representation for the Black community.
MEKHI PHIFER
Mekhi Phifer is an actor best known for his roles in television series like “ER” and films such as “Soul Food,” “8 Mile,” and “Divergent.” He has showcased his versatility as an actor across various genres, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base for his performances.
SPORTS
Eighty years ago, 100 white men chasing a black man through a field was called the Ku Klux Klan. Today, it is called the PGA Tour. All the great golfers of the past, including Nicklaus, Snead, Hogan, Sarazen, and Palmer, were all white. Before losing his number-one ranking to Vijay Singh in 2004, Tiger Woods held the title for 264 weeks. Black athletes have made significant contributions to the world of sports, breaking barriers and achieving remarkable success in various disciplines. From legendary figures like Jackie Robinson, who broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball, to iconic athletes such as Mohammed Ali, Serena Williams, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryan, and Pele, Black athletes have consistently showcased their exceptional talent, athleticism, and determination. Their Achievements and trailblazing efforts have transformed the sports landscape and played a crucial role in breaking racial barriers and fostering inclusivity. Black athletes continue to inspire generations, serve as role models, and highlight the power of sports in promoting social progress and unity.
MICHEL JORDAN
Michael Jordan is regarded as one of the greatest basketball players ever. Known for his extraordinary athleticism, competitiveness, and leadership, Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA championships and earned numerous accolades, including five MVP awards.
MUHAMMAD ALI
Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Clay, was a legendary boxer and cultural icon. Known for his charisma, athleticism, and outspokenness, Ali became a three-time heavyweight champion of the world and an advocate for social justice and civil rights.
JACKY ROBINSON
Jackie Robinson was a trailblazing baseball player who broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball when he joined the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947. Robinson’s courage and talent paved the way for future generations of African-American athletes.
GABBY DOUGLAS
Gabby Douglas is an Olympic gymnast who captured the world’s attention with her performances at the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games. Douglas became the first African-American woman to win the all-around gold medal in gymnastics at the Olympics.
EDSON A.N. (Pelé)
Pelé is a Brazilian soccer legend widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. He won three FIFA World Cups with the Brazilian national team and scored over 1,000 career goals, earning acclaim for his skill, athleticism, and sportsmanship.
SERENA WILLIAMS
Serena Williams is one of the greatest tennis players of all time. She has an unparalleled record of achievements, including 23 Grand Slam singles titles. Known for her power, athleticism, and determination, Williams has transcended the sport and become a global
LEBRON JAMES
LeBron James is a basketball superstar known for his versatility, athleticism, and leadership on and off the court. With four NBA championships and multiple MVP awards, James has solidified his place among the greatest players in the NBA’s history.
KAREEM A.
Abdul-Jabbar is a basketball legend and the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Known for his trademark skyhook shot and dominant presence on the court, he has won six NBA championships and six MVP awards over his illustrious career.
TIGER WOODS
Tiger Woods is a golf icon who revolutionized the sport with his dominance and skill. With numerous PGA Tour victories, including 15 major championships, Woods has inspired generations of golfers and transcended the sport with his impact and influence.
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