African American History

Learn about the achievements of African Americans who have shaped South Carolina and American history.

Black History Month is celebrated every February to honor the achievements of African Americans who have shaped American history. Historian Carter G. Woodson hoped to raise awareness of African American's contributions to civilization by establishing Negro History Week. The event was first celebrated during a week in February 1926 that included both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass' birthdays. The week was later expanded to a month in 1976 during the United States bicentennial.

PHOTO: On March 20, 1969, Black hospital workers at the Medical College of South Carolina in Charleston went on strike to protest the firing of twelve employees and to call for higher wages and union recognition.

Within this Collection

What's Important about Reading?
What's Important about Reading?

Lesson

The lesson highlights Thomas Preston Jr., the November nominee of the 2024 SC African American History calendar. It also discusses the importance of reading.

A Celebration of the Arts with Mac Arthur Goodwin
A Celebration of the Arts with Mac Arthur Goodwin

Lesson

In celebration of the September nominee of the 2024 SC African American History Calendar, students will learn about the life, contributions, and impact of Mac Arthur Goodwin. Students will also...

Eartha Kitt | Carolina Snaps

Video

Eartha Kitt's journey from a small town in South Carolina to international stardom is a testament to her extraordinary talent and resilience, celebrated annually on Eartha Kitt Day in her home state...
Reverend Jesse Jackson | Carolina Snaps

Video

South Carolina’s own Reverend Jesse Jackson made history challenging library segregation with the Greenville Eight. Did you know that before Jesse Jackson’s honorable role as a civil rights leader and...