More Black Facts

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The historian was the second Black student to graduate from Harvard University with a doctorate degree. His incredible research led to the establishment of Black History Month in 1926. It later became a nationally recognized annual event in 1976.

 Lincoln’s birthday is on February 12, while Douglass’ exact birthday is unknown, but he celebrated on February 14. During the Civil War, Lincoln worked tirelessly to expand the rights of Black Americans. Douglass, a formerly enslaved man, became a leader who fought to end slavery during the abolitionist movement. 

 William Wells Brown wrote “Clotel: or, The President’s Daughter.” He was a lecturer and abolitionist. 

If you’re looking for Black History Month facts to surprise your students, try this one. While Rosa Parks is often given credit for being the first Black woman to refuse to give up her seat on a bus, Claudette Colvin was actually arrested nine months earlier for refusing to give up her seat for white passengers. 

 From a young age, Lucy Terry lived in enslavement in Rhode Island. She was freed at age 26 when she married a free Black man. She penned “Bars Fight” in 1746. 

 From a young age, Lucy Terry lived in enslavement in Rhode Island. She was freed at age 26 when she married a free Black man. She penned “Bars Fight” in 1746.