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 Makes a Good Citizen?
What Makes a Good Citizen?

Lesson

This lesson celebrates Dr. Lonnie Randolph, the July nominee of the South Carolina African American History calendar. Students will also discuss what it means to be a good citizen.

What is a Bill?
What is a Bill?

Lesson

This lesson celebrates the accomplishments and contributions of April's 2024 nominee of the SC African American Calendar, John L. Scott, Jr. Students will also learn how a bill becomes a law.