5 Books You Should Read For Black History Month

In 1926 when Carter G. Woodson established Negro History Week, Woodson hoped to address the already dissipating knowledge Black Americans had about their history and presence in the United States. Every February, Woodson saw attempts to not only rewrite the history of the Civil War, but deny just how depraved chattel slavery was and alter the legacies of Abraham Lincoln and Fredrick Douglas. Woodson felt establishing a holiday that calls for reflection was essential to continuing racial progress. 

In 2023, we now have a month to reflect on African American history, which should be studied and shared as the history of all Americans. In an attempt to welcome any who may be unfamiliar or simply want to know where they can learn more, I am sharing 5 of my favorite books that I feel capture many perspectives of Black American life.