February is Black History Month. It is a month long celebration to recognize the contributions of African Americans. During Black History Month, schools teach lessons about famous African Americans like Martin Luther King, Sojourner Truth, George Washington Carver, Rosa Parks, Madame C.J. Walker, Malcolm X, Dr. Charles Drew, and others. Students also learn about subjects and events like slavery, the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation, voting rights, the March on Washington, and the Million Man March.
Barack Obama - The first African American President of the United States took office at noon on January 20, 2009.
Emancipation Proclamation - The Emancipation Proclamation freed the slaves in most Southern states.
George Washington Carver, 1864-1943 - George Washington Carver was a famous botanist, educator, and an unofficial spokesperson for the peanut industry. He wanted to improve the economic situation of African Americans in the rural South.
Malcolm X, 1925-1965 - Malcolm X was a black activist and a Muslim minister and spokesperson. He harshly condemned the unfair treatment of African Americans by whites. Malcolm encouraged black pride and self-reliance.
Martin Luther King, Jr., 1929-1968 - Martin Luther King was a civil rights leader. He led the Montgomery Bus Boycott and helped organize the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. His "I Have a Dream" speech challenged America to live up to its promise of equality for all.
Rosa Parks, 1913-2005 - The U.S. Congress called Rosa Parks the "Mother of the Modern Civil Rights Movement". Her refusal to give up her seat on a city bus to a white man resulted in the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
Sojourner Truth, about 1797-1883 - Sojourner Truth was a slave, abolitionist, and women's rights activist. She traveled around the country giving speeches and supporting various social and political causes.
Voting Amendments - There are four amendments to the Constitution about who can vote: 15th, 19th, 24th, 26th.