Black History Month BlackState.com

01 February 2010
Posted on BlackState 01 February 2010

The history of African American struggle in America continues to be important to teach not just for one month of the year but throughout the year. History is relevant and provides context to contemporary issues, problems and concerns in the African American community. Whether the issue is policing, poverty which leads to crime, education opportunities, or employment opportunities.

Celebrating black history as we have previously stated certainly should not end with the first African American President. The cultural traditions and struggle of the people of African American descent must continue to be learned. Black History Month was started by scholar Carter G. Woodson in 1926, Carter G. Woodson sought to raise awareness to the contributions of people of African descent made to world history. It was observed in black schools, churches and YMCAs around the country. But over the decades, Woodson's idea has blossomed into a celebration of African-American culture that became Black History Month.

An understanding of African American history and culture must be understood in the context of the greater African Diaspora. People of African descent are not only survivors of the middle passage, slavery, segregation, and colonialism but creators of the Mali, Songhay, Ghana empires. The Mali empire perhaps the greatest of West African empires was well known throughout the middle east for its wealth, organization and strength. In 1312 one of its rulers Abubakari II abdicated his thrown to set sail on the Atlantic Ocean in search of land on the other side. This event controversial by some scholars was nonetheless documented by North African scholars. Abubakari's successor Mansa Musa is legendary for his pilgrimage to Mecca and for his stay in Cairo. Where he gave so much gold to his host that he depressed the value of gold for years.

Teachers in search of ways to get African American students and students of all backgrounds more interested in what is being taught should consider incorporating black history into the curriculum and not just during the month of February.

Mali Empire

Mansa Musa In Cairo

Related: Black History Month

Triumph Unmasked: Why We Celebrate Black History?

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