African-American History - By Category
Biographies of Major Figures
Read profiles of influential African Americans from the colonial era to the present-day. From abolitionists to jazz musicians, discover more about the figures who shaped African-American history.
Timelines of Historical Events
Review the chronology of major events in African-American history. When did Europeans introduce slavery to North America? On what day did Abraham Lincoln sign the Emancipation Proclamation? Find the answers here.
Black History Month
Americans have been celebrating Black History Month since February 1976. That year, Gerald Ford extended the usual week-long celebration of African-American history and culture to a month. Read more about the origins of Black History Month and get ideas for classroom activities and lessons for Black History Month.
Slavery in the Colonial and Antebellum Eras
The nearly 250-year history of slavery in the United States had a profound effect on African-American history. In this section, learn about topics ranging from the economic importance of slavery to the operations of the Underground Railroad.
The Civil War & Reconstruction Period
The experiences of African-Americans during the Civil War (1861-1865) and Reconstruction (1865-1877). Read about the service of African-American soldiers during the Civil War, the impact of freedom on former slaves at the war's end and the election of African Americans to political office during Reconstruction.
Segregation and the Jim Crow Era
The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed the rise of Jim Crow laws in the South and de facto segregation in the North. Explore the major themes and events of this period in African-American history.
Civil Rights Struggles and Post-Civil Rights Period
As segregation became entrenched in the South, African Americans pursued civil rights through the courts, persuasive oratory and demonstrations from the late 1800s through the 1900s. Examine the events and trends of the Civil Rights era and the post-sixties period of African-American history.
African Americans in War
African-American soldiers have played roles in every major American conflict from the Revolutionary War (1775-1783) to the current wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Read about African-American service during America's wars.
African-American Culture
Discover the literature, music, dance and art of African-American culture. Find topics such as the meaning of spirituals, the Harlem Renaissance, the rise of hip-hop and African-American film history in this section.