Heroes of Black American History

Black History Month celebrates contributions made by African Americans and people of African descent around the world. Back then, it was called Negro History Week and was celebrated the second week of February. Now it is celebrated for the whole month of February in the United States and Canada, and the month of October in the United Kingdom.

Black History Month was begun as Negro History Week by historian Carter G. Woodson in 1926. His goal was to educate the American people about African-American history, focusing on African Americans' cultural backgrounds and reputable achievements.

When Carter G. Woodson started Negro History Week, his purpose was for the history of African Americans to become considered a more significant part of American history as a whole. 

Black History Month sparks an annual debate about the continued usefulness of a month dedicated to the history of one race. Several journalists argue the advantages and disadvantages of emphasizing one month of the year to promote African American History.

Others say that celebrating black history separately from American History underlines the idea that African Americans are not Americans, and their history is set apart from mainstream culture. But people who think black history is important say that as long as there is racism, unfairness, and a lack of understanding of black culture, there is a place for Black History Month. 
Negro History Week was set for the second week in February to celebrate the birthdays of two people who worked hard for African Americans: Abraham Lincoln, the white president who freed the slaves, and Frederick Douglass, the first African American Vice Presidential nominee.
Read More: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_History_Month