Carter G. Woodson was born on December 19, 1875, in New Canton, Virginia. He was the son of former slaves, James and Eliza Riddle Woodson. Growing up in poverty, Woodson had to work from a young age to help support his family. Despite facing many obstacles, he was determined to get an education.
Woodson worked as a miner to fund his education. He attended school sporadically in West Virginia, where he lived with his brother. Eventually, he was able to enroll in Douglass High School in Fayette County and complete his basic education.
After finishing high school, Woodson attended Berea College in Kentucky. He earned a Bachelor of Literature degree in 1903. He then went on to earn a Bachelor's and Master's degree from the University of Chicago. In 1912, he became the second African American to receive a doctorate from Harvard University, after W.E.B. Du Bois.
Woodson dedicated his life to the study and promotion of African American history. In 1915, he founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, an organization dedicated to promoting the study of black history and culture. He believed that it was essential for African Americans to know their history in order to empower themselves and combat racism and discrimination.
Woodson is best known for his creation of "Negro History Week" in 1926, which later evolved into Black History Month in February. This initiative aimed to highlight the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout history, which had been largely overlooked in traditional education.
In addition to his work as a historian, Woodson was also a journalist. He wrote for several African American newspapers, including Marcus Garvey's "Negro World." He used his platform to educate and inspire African Americans, advocating for pride in their heritage and culture.
Carter G. Woodson played a crucial role in shaping the narrative of African American history. He challenged the prevailing notion of white superiority and black inferiority by highlighting the achievements and resilience of African Americans throughout history. His work laid the foundation for the field of African American studies and inspired future generations of scholars and activists.
Woodson's commitment to education and social justice earned him the nickname "The Father of Black History." He believed that knowledge was power, and he dedicated his life to empowering African Americans through education and awareness of their history.
Although he never married, Woodson considered his work to be his life's purpose. He worked tirelessly to advance the cause of African American history and ensure that it was recognized and celebrated.
Carter G. Woodson's dedication to promoting African American history and culture has left a lasting legacy. His tireless efforts to educate and empower African Americans have had a profound impact on the way history is taught and understood. As "The Father of Black History," Woodson's influence continues to be felt today, inspiring future generations to learn about and embrace the contributions of African Americans to society.