Black History Month began in the summer of 1915 in Chicago, Illinois.  Historian Carter G. Woodson founded the Association for The Study of Negro Life and History to inform people about African American culture. 11  years later in 1926, the group named the second week of Feb.,  “Negro History Week,” an earlier version of what we now regard as “Black History Month.”  This specific week was chosen because it follows the birthdates of two very famous civil rights leaders, Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.  The ultimate change to Black History Month occurred in 1976, when President Gerald Ford wanted to extend the celebration to honor the achievements of African Americans further.  Ever since then, each Black History Month has had a unique theme.  This year, for 2022, the theme is black health and wellness.

“I see Black History month is a staple of American society, and it is a symbol for important African American figures,” said junior John Funk.

Among the contributions African Americans have given to society, Jazz is among the most notable.  Jazz is a music genre developed by African American musicians in New Orleans, Louisiana, during the late 19th century.  However, its popularity rose during the 1920s, as it spread to urban black communities in cities like Chicago and New York.  Jazz is the combination of Afro-rhythmic percussion patterns with European structure and harmony.  Black Americans were able to fuse these elements together to form jazz.  This genre provided African Americans and people all over the country with a creative outlet to express their feelings through music.  Some famous black jazz musicians include artists such as Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong, whose songs helped inspire pride in the African American community and helped knock down the discriminatory standards in American culture during their time.

“I never knew about the wonders of jazz.  It’s so interesting to think that jazz was rooted in such dark territory, but it’s one of the coolest and most interesting genres out there,” said freshman Ethan Restivo.

Another primary genre of music that Black Americans have contributed to American society is soul music.  Soul music is a combination of blues and gospel.  In the late 19th century, after slavery was abolished, African Americans were not allowed to belong to the same churches as white Americans.  In response, African Americans formed their own church groups, which led to creating gospel music.  Over time, gospel music would eventually evolve into what soul is today.  Soul music has inspired a lot of different genres as well.  For example, funk, dance music, disco, house, and hip hop are all derived from soul.  One prominent figure in soul music and black culture was Ray Charles, known for his immense performing talent.  His most famous piece was “Hit the Road Jack,” a catchy song to dance to.  Different versions of soul have sprouted as a response to the widespread popularity.  Some examples include Memphis style and Chicago style.  This would inspire future genres of music as well, like indie rock’s multi-regional sounds.

“I love soul music, and it’s a genre that you have to like.  Also, I wouldn’t have other music genres that I currently like without soul music like R&B and rap music,” said freshman Forest Stulbaum.

Another influence Black culture has is through food, or more specifically, soul food.  Soul food came from West Africa; however, it evolved into what it is now by its influence from different regions.  These regions include places like Europe and the United States.  When enslaved people came to America, they were only left with small rations.  Most of these were starchy foods such as rice, potatoes, and cornmeal.  This food supply increased by doing labor tasks such as fishing, hunting, and farming.  There are many different dishes associated with soul food.  Some of these include sweet potato pie, candied yams, and macaroni and cheese.  Soul food has become an especially popular addition to southern cuisine, as many of these meals/dishes were created by Black chefs from the south during slavery.  Ingredients such as yams, vegetables, and cornbread are all standard pieces in these dishes.  Thus, this celebrates the resourcefulness of Black cooks who used rations, livestock and farming for their foods. 

“The diverse selection of African American cuisine is amazing.  It’s so crazy that people back then were able to use their resources to make such good meals and dishes,” said Kiara Adams.

In addition to contributions like music and food, black history month also celebrates revolutionary figures in African American history who helped fight against racial discrimination. In essence, Black History Month is the yearly celebration of African American contributions and achievements worldwide.  It is celebrated  in many different countries including: Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany.  It has become a significant way to recognize African Americans’ influence on the world’s history and culture.