Lecture Notes: Carter G. Woodson and the Study of African American History

Introduction

• Focus on neglected positive aspects of neighborhoods and African American history.
• Importance of the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History.

Carter G. Woodson

• Known as the "Father of Black History Month."
• Born in 1875 in New Kent, Virginia, to former slaves.
• Grew up poor, worked on a farm, limited formal education.

Education and Early Influence

• Moved to West Virginia in 1892 to work in coal mines.
• Influenced by Oliver Jones, a Civil War veteran.
• Completed high school in a year and earned a Ph.D. from Harvard in 1912.

Academic and Professional Contributions

• First person born to former slaves to earn a Ph.D. in history.
• Established the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History in 1915.
• Published nearly 20 books on African American history.
• Created the Journal of Negro History for scholarly publication.

Educational Philosophy

• Advocated for scientific research in African American history.
• Sought to debunk racist narratives and prove the legitimacy of African American history.

Challenges and Legacy

• Faced racism and mob violence.
• Disagreements with academic institutions for his radical views.
• Established Associated Publishers to disseminate African American history.

Later Years and Legacy

• Published "The Mis-Education of the Negro" in 1933.
• Founded Negro History Week in 1937, precursor to Black History Month.
• Passed away in 1950; recognized for breaking down racial prejudices.

Impact and Recognition

• Helped institutionalize African American Studies.
• Influenced civil rights movements and generations of scholars.
• Advocated for a comprehensive history inclusive of all ethnic groups.