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Every February, the United States pauses to honor the profound contributions and enduring resilience of African Americans. As we enter 2026, the significance of Black History Month continues to grow, serving as both a reflection on our past and a roadmap for a more inclusive future.
Whether you are a student of history, a local resident, or a traveler visiting Washington DC, understanding the origins of this month is essential to appreciating the American story.
A common question for those planning events or travel is: When is Black History Month? Black History Month is observed every year during the entire month of February.
While the observance originally began as “Negro History Week” in 1926, it was expanded to a full month in 1970. In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized 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.”
The month of February was chosen by the “Father of African American History,” Carter G. Woodson, because it coincides with the birthdays of two men who greatly influenced the Black American experience: Abraham Lincoln (February 12) and Frederick Douglass (February 14).
To celebrate Black History Month, we are highlighting five pioneers whose work in science, civil rights, and education continues to shape our world today.
The son of formerly enslaved parents, Woodson was the second African American to earn a PhD from Harvard. He dedicated his life to ensuring that Black history was not treated as a footnote. By establishing “Negro History Week,” he laid the foundation for the month-long celebration we observe today.
A powerful educator and stateswoman, Bethune founded the National Council of Negro Women. She served as an advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt and was a key member of his “Black Cabinet,” advocating for the rights of African Americans during the Great Depression and New Deal era.
A Tuskegee Airman and world-renowned geophysicist, Dr. Bromery broke barriers in academia. He was the first African American professional geophysicist with the U.S. Geological Survey and served as the Chancellor of UMass Amherst, where he significantly increased minority enrollment.
Known as the “Black Edison,” Morgan was a prolific inventor. He is responsible for two life-saving inventions we use to this day: the smoke hood (a precursor to the gas mask) and the three-position traffic signal, which added the “amber” light to improve road safety.
A leader in both the civil rights and women’s rights movements, Height served as the president of the National Council of Negro Women for 40 years. She was a key organizer of the March on Washington and was often the only woman at the highest levels of civil rights leadership.
There is no better place to observe Black History Month than in the nation’s capital. Washington DC is home to the landmarks and museums that tell these stories in vivid detail.
As the newest member of the Smithsonian Institution, this museum is a must-see. It provides a comprehensive look at the African American experience—from the beginnings in Africa through the Civil Rights Movement to the present day.
At USA Guided Tours, we are proud to offer a specialized African American History & Culture Tour. This expert-led experience takes you to pivotal sites, including:
If you are visiting D.C. for Black History Month, we invite you to join our professional guides for an in-depth exploration of the people and places that changed the course of history.
Book Your African American History Tour Today
Terry Cordaro, Washington DC Tour Guide at USA Guided Tours
