black history essay prompts

Black History Essay Topics

• Writing Essays
• Writing Research Papers
• English Grammar
• M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
• B.A., History, Armstrong State University

Black history is full of fascinating stories, rich culture, great art, and courageous acts that were undertaken within unthinkable circumstances. While Civil Rights events are the most common themes in our studies, we should resist equating Black history only with Civil Rights-era history. This list contains 50 prompts that might lead you into some interesting and little-known information about Black American history.

Note: Your first challenge in studying some of the topics below is finding resources. When conducting an internet search, be sure to place quotation marks around your search term (try different variations) to narrow your results.

• Black American newspapers
• Black Inventors
• Black soldiers in the American Revolution
• Black soldiers in the Civil War
• Buffalo Soldiers
• Buying time
• Camp Logan Riots
• Clennon Washington King, Jr.
• Coffey School of Aeronautics
• Crispus Attucks
• Domestic labor strikes in the South
• Finding lost family members after emancipation
• First African Baptist Church
• Formerly enslaved business owners
• Freedom's Journal
• Gospel music
• Gullah heritage
• Harlem Hellfighters
• Harlem Renaissance
• Harriet Tubman
• Historically Black Colleges
• History of rock-and-roll
• Jumping the broom
• Manumission papers
• Maroon villages in the eighteenth century
• Motown Records
• Multi-cultural pirate ships
• Narratives by Enslaved People
• Otelia Cromwell
• Ownership of property by enslaved people
• Purchasing freedom
• Ralph Waldo Tyler
• Register of Free Persons of Color
• Secret schools in antebellum America
• Sherman's March followers
• Susie King Taylor
• The Amistad
• The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters
• The Communist Party (involvement)
• The Great Migration
• The Haitian Revolution
• Tuskegee Airmen
• Underground Railroad
• Urban enslavement (related to buying time)
• Wilberforce College, Ohio
• Celebrating Black History Month
• Important Cities in Black History
• What Is Black History Month and How Did It Begin?
• Black History and Women's Timeline: 1900–1919
• Black History Timeline: 1700 - 1799
• Black History Timeline: 1910–1919
• Biography of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, Black Historian
• Black History Timeline: 1865–1869
• Black History Month Printables
• Black History Timeline: 1920–1929
• Little Known Important Black Americans
• Black History and Women's Timeline: 1920-1929
• Important Black Women in American History
• Black History and Women Timeline 1870-1899
• Black History Timeline: 1940–1949
• Black History from 1950–1959

56 African American History Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best african american history topic ideas & essay examples, 🔍 good essay topics on african american history, ✅ most interesting african american history topics to write about.

• African American History Timeline (1619 – 1865) As the expansion of the textile factories led irresistibly to a rise in the market for servitude Africans, there was a possibility of a slave insurrection, such as the one that prevailed in Haiti in […]
• African Americans: History and Modernity Most African Americans are descendants of enslaved people brought from Africa, and the research focuses on the connection between the current state of African Americans concerning their history. We will write a custom essay specifically for you by our professional experts 808 writers online Learn More
• History and True Meaning of African American Slave Music The ancestors of African Americans were forcibly separated from their homes and brought to the United States to work on the plantations of the Old South.
• The Series of Injustices Spanned the History of African Americans A series of failures for Americans began with the emergence of slavery in the USA. However, it is impossible to talk about the complete eradication of racism in the country.
• The African American History: The Historical Weight of 1776 A number of us, who arrived unexpectedly, became indentured to Virginia masters through a bidding process that was to some extent similar to later slave auctions that would become all in all widespread in the […]
• Lynching History of African Americans: An Absurd Illegal Justice System in the 19th Century Another attempt to explain the origin of lynch law is that of regulators and moderators. According to Rhodes, this theory is not applicable because the name of the law and order maintenance unit was aregulators’ […]
• African Americans Struggle Against Slavery The following paragraphs will explain in detail the two articles on slavery and the African American’s struggle to break away from the heavy and long bonds of slavery. The website tells me that Dredd Scott […]
• African American History: The Struggle for Freedom The history of the Jacksons Rainbow coalition shows the rise of the support of the African American politicians in the Democratic party.
• African American History in the 20th Century The NAACP was radical since it fought many legal battles and fought against ideologies of some of the most prominent African American leaders like those of the late Booker Washington and the government.
• African American History After Reconstruction The bureau also helped champion African Americans’ rights by pushing for the 14th and 15th amendments of the constitution that would give African Americans voting rights.
• King Jr. and Malcolm X in African American History Malcolm was able to sell his ideas to the African Americans in various meetings in the streets of Harlem and in major universities across the United States.
• Robert R. Moton’s Role in African American History In conclusion, this article has helped to get a better understanding of the topic and what events took place at that time.
• History of Higher Education for African Americans Even if I had the opportunity to participate in higher education, I could not have managed to take advantage of it since it was expensive, and I would have nothing to eat after school.
• African American History and Its Importance in Modern Days Without a clear understanding of this part of history, slavery would not have evolved to the current citizenship, freedom and human rights that we enjoy in our constitution.
• History of African Americans The readings that are going to be discussed in the paper tell the history of African Americans, their struggles for civil rights, and their integration into the social and political life of the country.
• Perspectives in African American History and Culture The point is that a person has both, mind and body, and if a person could not accept the idea of being enslaved, he/she was not a slave.
• The History of the Black Lives Matter Movement
• African American History: 1865 to the Present
• The Black History Month: The Importance of Black History
• Overview of African American History and Culture
• African American History: Religious Influences 1770 – 1831
• The Brief History of Black Nationalism
• Who Is Considered the Father of Black History
• African American History: Tribute to Sojourner Truth
• Ame and Ame Zion Churches in African American History
• Black Slaveowners in African American History
• Capitalism and Its Impact on African American History
• Education of All Perspectives of the African American History
• Changes Brewing for African American History
• Exploring African American History: The Harlem Renaissance
• Impact of the African American History on African Americans
• The Concept of Freedom in African American History
• How Does African American History Differ From Others
• African American History and “Warmth of Other Suns”
• How the 2008 Election Affected African American History
• Irene Gomez-Leon: African American History
• History of Black Wall Street ‘Little Africa’
• African American History Before 1877: Main Events and Figures
• Language Awareness: The N-Word in African American History
• Slavery and Its Significance in the African American History
• African American History During the Antebellum Period
• The Impact of the Civil War on African American History
• Analysis of Why African American History Is Important
• African American History Figure: Matthew Alexander Henson
• The Impact of Black Soldiers on American History
• The Origins and Importance of Black History Month
• Black Nationalism in African American History
• Analysis of Arguments Against Black History Month
• The Advantages and Disadvantages of Black History
• Brief History of Black Males in American Society
• Racism Enacted Throughout the History of Black Films
• The History of Harlem – Cultural Epicenter of America’s Black Community
• African American Youth and Their Lack of Interest in Black History Month
• Dark History of Medical Experimentation on Black Americans from Colonial Times
• Underrated and Unwritten Black History Heroes: John Carlos and Tommie Smith
• The Connotation of African-American History and Black History
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

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8 Black History Month Writing Prompts

Illustration (featured from left to right): James Baldwin , Amy Sherald, Katherine Johnson, Kimberly Bryant, and Stevie Wonder

Black history should never be relegated to a date on a calendar. It is too intricately woven into the meaning of America. What would the United States be without the muscle, skill, and innovative thinking of its Black citizens?

Inventor and agricultural scientist George Washington Carver said, “When you do the common things in life in an uncommon way, you will command the attention of the world.” This quote captures the theme of a year-round focus on Black history in my fourth grade African-centered classroom. My students and I spend time marveling at the ingenuity of countless Black people who have faced, and continue to face, all too common dehumanizing circumstances and yet continue to rise.

I pose the question, “How are people who look like you overcoming problems in their daily life?” My students and I ground the question in three ways. First, we identify, research, and interview innovative people we know locally (caregivers, family members, friends, business owners, city officials). Then, we research national celebrities and other prominent figures. Finally, we explore the presence of Black ingenuity and innovation on a global scale.

Black History Month for my classroom is simply a time to recommit to the Black historical legacy of ingenuity and innovation in the face of racism and other systems of oppression. I hope these Black history writing prompts help you do the same with your class, in February and all year round.

Black History Month Journal Prompts

Introduce your students to the Black innovators highlighted here. Think of their experiences and perspectives as a springboard for students to write about their own lives. Note that the structure of each prompt asks students to do three things: delve into the life and accomplishments of a Black innovator; talk over a quote by or about the person; and finally, tackle a related writing prompt. Each prompt guides students into a particular type of writing, such as personal narrative, informative, or persuasive.

Black History Writing Prompt #1

Spotlight On: NASA Mathematician Katherine Johnson Text Type: Personal Narrative

Background: Tell students that Katherine Johnson (1918–2020) was a mathematician for NASA. She calculated rocket paths for space missions. Her work was critical to the success of several human spaceflights, including the Friendship 7 mission that made astronaut John Glenn the first American to orbit Earth. Glenn’s flight marked a turning point in the space race between the U.S. and the Soviet Union (today, Russia). In 2015, President Barack Obama awarded Johnson the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her life’s work. The 2017 movie Hidden Figures tells the story of Johnson and two other unsung heroes of NASA’s early days.

Talk It Over: Tell students that in 1962, astronaut John Glenn requested that Johnson double check the computer-generated trajectory of Friendship 7’s Earth orbit. “If she says the numbers are good,” he declared, “I’m ready to go.” Ask: How do you know Glenn had confidence in Johnson? Do you think she had confidence in herself? What makes you say that?

Writing Prompt: Think about a time in your life when someone had confidence in you to solve a problem or complete a task. That person might be a family member, friend, teacher, coach, pastor, or even a stranger. Write a personal narrative about the experience. Be sure to describe the task and the effect that person’s confidence had on you. Include sensory details and an organized story structure.

Black History Writing Prompt #2

Spotlight On: Author James Baldwin Text Type: Persuasive/Opinion Writing

Background: Tell students that James Baldwin (1924–1987) wrote novels, essays, plays, and short stories that forced readers to confront racism in America. Baldwin lived during a time when our government wrote laws to keep Black and white people separated in public places, like schools, restaurants, and churches. The impact of racism drove Baldwin to move to France. His 1953 novel Go Tell It on the Mountain is considered an American classic.

Talk It Over: Read aloud this quote by Baldwin: "I knew I was Black, of course, but I also knew I was smart. I didn't know how I would use my mind, or even if I could, but that was the only thing I had to use.” Ask: Why do you think Baldwin says he didn’t know if he could use his mind? (Baldwin is saying that racism tries to make Black people feel like they aren’t smart. He eventually used his mind to become a great writer who fought against racism with his words.) How can we apply Baldwin’s quote to education? How might racism affect what we’re taught in school? What effect might it have on the way students learn?

Writing Prompt: Write a five-paragraph persuasive essay arguing for ways to improve your least favorite or favorite subject. Be sure to explain how the change will help improve your motivation and thinking. When you are finished editing and revising, send the essay to your parents, teacher, principal, superintendent, and school board.

Black History Writing Prompt #3

Spotlight On: Actor/Writer/Producer Tyler Perry Text Type: Informative Writing

Background: Tell students that Tyler Perry (1969–) is the mastermind behind popular plays, movies, TV shows, and New York Times bestselling books. He portrayed his most famous character, Madea, in plays that eventually made the leap to the big screen, with the franchise grossing more than $500 million. Popular TV shows like The Walking Dead and blockbuster movies like Black Panther were shot at Tyler Perry Studios, in Atlanta, Georgia. But Perry’s success belies a difficult childhood that almost destroyed him. His father often beat him, which Perry says led him to attempt suicide. In his early 20s, he saw an episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show in which Oprah described the therapeutic effect of writing. Perry started writing down everything that happened to him. He believes writing saved his life.

Talk It Over: Read aloud this quote by Perry: “ My biggest success is getting over the things that have tried to destroy and take me out of this life. Those are my biggest successes. It has nothing to do with work.” Remind students that Perry uses writing as therapy. Ask: Do you agree with Perry’s idea of “success”? Explain.

Writing Prompt: Think about a hobby or interest that brings you calm, such as cooking, coding, dancing, or drawing. Write an informative essay, create a brochure, or design a PowerPoint presentation that describes the benefits of the activity and how it affects your state of mind.

Black History Writing Prompt #4

Spotlight On: Artist Amy Sherald Text Type: Poetry

Background: Tell students that First Lady Michelle Obama chose Amy Sherald (1973–) to paint Mrs. Obama’s official portrait for the National Portrait Gallery shortly after Sherald won the 2016 Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition. Mrs. Obama described an immediate connection upon meeting Sherald, feeling "blown away by the boldness of her colors and the uniqueness of her subject matter.” But not everyone likes such bold paintings. Sherald received quite a bit of flack for the portrait. Her vision of how to paint the first African-American First Lady wasn’t typical, and this is partly what makes her an innovator.

Talk It Over: Read aloud Sherald’s response to those who didn’t understand her painting style: “Some people like their poetry to rhyme. Some people don’t; that’s fine. It’s cool.” Ask: What is Sherald saying about people’s taste in art? How does Sherald view art? What do you think about the portrait of the First Lady ? What do you think people objected to?

Writing Prompt: Write a poem of three or more lines, rhyming or not, that captures an emotion in vivid detail. Think about a strong emotion you’ve experienced lately. It could be how you felt when you saw Sherald’s portrait of First Lady Michelle Obama, or the feeling of learning how people reacted against it. If you’d like to write about something more personal, consider writing about how you felt on a recent Zoom call, or when a parent or caregiver reprimanded or praised you. What emotion did you feel? Close your eyes and try to visualize what you remember.

Black History Writing Prompt #5

Spotlight On: Electrical Engineer Kimberly Bryant Text Type: Textual Analysis

Background: Tell students that Kimberly Bryant (1967–) is an electrical engineer who worked in biotechnology for companies including Genentech, Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, and Merck. In 2011, she founded the nonprofit Black Girls Code to teach basic programming to Black girls who are underrepresented in technology careers. Bryant has been listed as one of the "25 Most Influential African-Americans in Technology."

Talk It Over: Read aloud this quote by Kimberly Bryant: “You can absolutely be what you can't see! That's what innovators and disruptors do.” Ask: What makes Bryant an innovator and disrupter? How could you be an innovator and create solutions to the problems you see around you? How could you disrupt unfairness that you see? Could you use a hobby or talent to innovate and disrupt?

Writing Prompt: Visit the Black Girls Code site. Scan the homepage and write down the following:

• Company slogan
• One-sentence summary of the company’s vision
• The headline of one article that appears on the site
• A summary of the article’s central points
• A description of the article’s purpose (i.e. entertain, inform, persuade, examine/explore an issue, describe/report, instruct), along with evidence from the text to support your claim

Learn code or create your own website that highlights the thing you love to do and that makes you different from everyone else. You might consider using the website as a way to innovate or disrupt. Keep the website updated weekly.

Black History Writing Prompt #6

Spotlight On: Singer/Songwriter Stevie Wonder Text Type: Research Writing

Background: Stevie Wonder (1950–) is a pioneer in the music industry who never let his blindness stop him from achieving anything he wanted in life. To date, the singer-songwriter has picked up 25 Grammy Awards and an Oscar, sold over 100 million records worldwide, and has been inducted into the Rock & Roll and Songwriters Halls of Fame. The release of his song "Happy Birthday" in 1980, followed by tireless campaigning, led to the establishment of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in 1986. A tech-savvy musician himself, Wonder has pushed for advancements that make technology accessible for blind and deaf people.

Talk It Over: Read aloud this quote by Stevie Wonder: “Do you know, it's funny, but I never thought of being blind as a disadvantage, and I never thought of being Black as a disadvantage.” Ask: Does this quote surprise you? Why or why not? Why might some people see being blind or Black as a disadvantage? How might technology help address disability or racism?

Writing Prompt: Think about the problems we face today—from racism to blindness to COVID-19, cancer, global warming, bullying, over-policing, you name it. Choose one of the problems and conduct research to answer these questions:

• What is the problem? Describe it.
• Who is this problem affecting most?
• Who are the experts trying to solve the problem?
• What technology are they creating to solve the problem?
• What are the pros and cons of the technology?

Black History Writing Prompt #7

Spotlight On: Rapper Kendrick Lamar Text Type: Interview

Background: Tell students that Kendrick Lamar (1987–) has won 13 Grammy Awards, two American Music Awards, five Billboard Music Awards, a Brit Award, 11 MTV Video Music Awards, a Pulitzer Prize, and an Academy Award nomination. In 2015, he received the California State Senate's Generational Icon award. Three of his studio albums have been listed in Rolling Stone 's "The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time (2020)."

Talk It Over: Share this quote by Lamar with your students: “It took a long time for people to embrace us (rappers)—people outside of our community, our culture—to see this not just as vocal lyrics, but to see that this is really pain, this is really hurt, this is really true stories of our lives on wax.” Ask: Why do you think people like different genres of music? Why do you think some people, after 50 years, still don’t view rap as real music?

Writing Prompt: Think about three people you know who are different in some way. Their differences can be based on demographics like race, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or ability. Choose one demographic (age, for example) and interview three people based on that demographic (a child, an adult, an elderly person) using these two questions:

• What is your favorite genre of music?
• What do you think about rap music?

Record your interview and type your transcript. Present your findings to the class in the form of a newscast using a video recording app. Your newscast should be pre-recorded. Finally, record 30 seconds at the end talking about how each interviewees’ perspective is similar and different.

Black History Writing Prompt #8

Spotlight On: Science Fiction Author Octavia E. Butler Text Type: Science Fiction Writing

Background: Tell students that Octavia E. Butler (1947–2006) wrote science fiction novels that blend mysticism, mythology, and African American spiritualism. Her work has garnered numerous awards. In 1995, she became the first science fiction writer to receive a MacArthur Foundation award, or “genius grant,” and in 2000 she won a PEN Award for lifetime achievement. In 2010, she was inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame.

Talk It Over: Read aloud this quote by Octavia Butler: “If you want a thing — truly want it, want it so badly that you need it as you need air to breathe, then unless you die, you will have it. Why not? It has you…” Ask: What does she mean when she talks about wanting a thing the way you need air to breathe? What is she telling us about the things that drive us?

Writing Prompt: Imagine that it’s 30 years in the future. Will people be living on Mars? Will we have flying cars? Will there still be poverty, or racism? Write a one-page fantasy story in which the Earth is threatened with certain destruction. You as the main character must use your superpower to save the world. Your superpower is whatever you are passionate about—music, debating, helping people, athletics, acting, writing, designing, or something else entirely. You can do things with your superpower that are unreal. The human race is counting on you. Good luck!

More Ideas for Black History Writing Prompts

This post focused on Black ingenuity and innovation. Have any other theme ideas for Black History Month writing prompts? Share them with us on Twitter ( @TheTeacherRoom ) or Facebook .

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of HMH.

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Black History Month Journal Prompts

💾 Print or download a free PDF copy of this page:

Explore our diverse range of Black History Month journal prompts. Encourage thoughtful reflection and deepen your understanding of African-American history and culture through our inspiring writing ideas.

Celebrating Black History Month can be an enlightening and empowering journey. One of the engaging ways to participate, reflect, and learn more during this period is through journaling.

In this article, we’re excited to share a range of Black History Month journal prompts to stimulate your writing adventures. Whether you aim to deepen your understanding, express solidarity, or simply experience the healing process of writing, our thoughtfully curated prompts are here to assist you.

So, grab your journal, find a serene space, and let’s embark on this path of historical exploration and personal growth together. 🤗

Influential Figures In Black History

Focusing on Influential Figures in Black History when creating journal prompts for Black History Month allows us to reflect on their immense contributions and inspire us to continue their legacy. Here are 20 focal prompts that are centred around these significant individuals:

• Describe the impact Dr.Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech had on the civil rights movement.
• Write about the strategies Harriet Tubman used to lead slaves to freedom and how they showed bravery.
• Discuss the literary contributions of Maya Angelou and how they influenced you.
• Reflect on the role Rosa Parks played in the Montgomery Bus Boycott. What compelled her act of defiance?
• Imagine a conversation with Barack Obama about his experiences as the first Black President of the United States.
• Write about the importance of Malcolm X to black empowerment and pan-Africanism.
• Discuss how the music of Louis Armstrong contributed to the Harlem Renaissance.
• Write a letter to Jackie Robinson expressing your thoughts about his struggle for racial equality in sports.
• Describe how the work of Thurgood Marshall as a Supreme Court Justice influenced the legal system.
• Write about the contributions of Madam C.J. Walker to the beauty industry and how she used her wealth for philanthropy.
• Reflect on the leadership qualities of Nelson Mandela and how they inspire you.
• Discuss the influence of Frederick Douglass' abolitionist work during the 19th century.
• Reflect on a poem by Langston Hughes and how it speaks to the condition of Black life in America.
• Write on the significance of Muhammad Ali's resistance to participating in the Vietnam War.
• Write about how Mary McLeod Bethune used education as a tool for advancing civil rights.
• Discuss the all-around global cultural impact of explores and boxers like Jack Johnson.
• Describe the change brought about by W.E.B. Du Bois through his civil rights activism.
• Correlate the potent influence of Ella Fitzgerald's music on society and you.
• Reflect on Sojourner Truth’s feminist and abolitionist work, and its importance in current day.
• Write about the life and work of James Baldwin, discussing the impact of his literature on understanding race and sexuality.

The Civil Rights Movement

Journaling about the Civil Rights Movement can deepen understanding of this critical period in black history and encourage reflection on its relevance today. Here are 20 journal prompts about the Civil Rights Movement:

• Reflect on Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech. How does it resonate with you?
• Write about the significance of the Montgomery Bus Boycott in the fight for civil rights.
• Describe the events and impact of the March on Washington. Why was it a critical moment in the Civil Rights Movement?
• List three key figures in the Civil Rights Movement and what you admire about them.
• Consider Rosa Parks' act of defiance. What personal strengths do you think she drew upon in that moment?
• Write a diary entry imagining you are a participant in one of the sit-ins or Freedom Rides.
• Explore how the Civil Rights Movement affected or changed the race relations in your community.
• If you could ask any civil rights leader a question, who would you choose and what would you ask?
• Contemplate the use of nonviolent protest. Do you believe it was effective in the Civil Rights Movement?
• Write down your thoughts about the role music and art played in the Civil Rights Movement.
• Discuss the part children and teenagers played in the movement during the Children's Crusade in Birmingham, 1963.
• Reflect on the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Why was it a crucial piece of legislation for civil rights?
• Describe your thoughts about the sacrifices made by those involved in the Civil Rights Movement.
• Imagine being a civil rights activist during that era. How would you feel about the risks involved?
• Write about the concept of "freedom summer" and its influence on the movement.
• Delve into the significance of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. How do you think America changed after it was passed?
• Reflect on how the Civil Rights Movement has contributed to your personal life and understanding of justice.
• Write about how you feel the Civil Rights Movement has shaped racial equality today.
• Reflect on Malcolm X's role in the Civil Rights movement, and the contrast between his approach and Martin Luther King Jr.'s.
• Write down three lessons from the Civil Rights Movement that can be applied to challenges faced today.

Modern Black Pioneers

Exploring the theme of Modern Black Pioneers within Black History Month journaling can inspire a deep appreciation of their impactful contributions and encourage introspection on their influential roles in shaping today's society. Here are 20 prompts to delve into the narrative of these noteworthy individuals:

• Write about a modern Black pioneer whose story inspires you personally. Why does their journey resonate with you?
• Reflect on the impact of Michelle Obama's leadership and her influence in the role of First Lady.
• Describe your thoughts on the cultural significance of Beyoncé’s music and her influence in the entertainment industry.
• How did the Black Lives Matter movement shape your understanding of racial justice? Write about it.
• Journal about the influence of Ava DuVernay's filmmaking on our perception of Black history.
• Imagine a conversation with Barack Obama in the early days of his presidency. What would you discuss?
• Reflect on the scientific contributions of Neil deGrasse Tyson and his influence in popularizing science.
• Write a letter of gratitude to Stacey Abrams for her work in promoting voter rights.
• Study the literature of Toni Morrison. How does her writing influence your perception of Black culture?
• What impact has the athletic success and activism of Serena Williams had on you?
• Map out a timeline of Oprah Winfrey's career. How does her journey inspire you?
• Explore the legacy of Chadwick Boseman. How has his contribution to cinematography influenced perceptions of Black heroes?
• Describe how the work of modern Black pioneers in the fields of your interest has shaped your career or life choices.
• Imagine being an adviser to Kamala Harris, the first Black female Vice President. What advice would you give?
• Think about the initiatives taken by LeBron James off the basketball court, like opening a school. Write about the significance of such actions.
• Write a tribute to Black healthcare workers and researchers fighting COVID-19 and their contribution to society.
• Reflect on your feelings about the historic appointment of Lloyd Austin as the first Black Secretary of Defense.
• Examine the roles played by Black pioneers in the tech industry, like Tristan Walker or Kimberly Bryant. How have they influenced the industry?
• Write about a local Black pioneer in your community and their impact on you or your community.
• Journal about the significance of having Black pioneers in children's literature such as Jacqueline Woodson.

Historical Events Of Black History

Delving into historical events of Black History through journal prompts can deepen your comprehension and appreciation of the contributions, struggles, and triumphs of people of African descent. Here are 20 prompts to explore these moments from a personal perspective:

• Reflect on the significance of the Emancipation Proclamation. How might it have felt to hear this news for the first time?
• Write about the Civil Rights Movement. What would you have done if you had been in that scenario?
• Describe a scenario where you impacted the world as if you were Rosa Parks refusing to give up her bus seat.
• Imagine that you were Martin Luther King Jr delivering the 'I have a dream' speech. What additional dreams would you express?
• Write about the passing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 from the perspective of an African American living in the South.
• Put yourself in the shoes of the first African American student to attend a previously segregated school. Write about your first day.
• Compare the significance of the Harlem Renaissance and the Black Arts Movement to the cultural recognition of African Americans.
• Imagine experiencing the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in 1963. How would you create a positive change?
• Write a diary entry as if you were Barack Obama on the day he was elected president.
• What would you ask Malcolm X if you had a chance to talk to him?
• Write a letter thanking Harriet Tubman for her bravery in the Underground Railroad.
• Reflect on the Brown v. Board of Education ruling and its impact on modern day education.
• Describe what it would have been like to stand with Jesse Owens as he won four gold medals in the 1936 Olympics.
• Write about how the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr affected the momentum of the Civil Rights Movement.
• Imagine being part of the riot during the 1793 Yellow Fever Epidemic in Philadelphia, what would you have seen and felt?
• Write as if you were a solider in the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment during the Civil War.
• Reflect on the Democratic National Convention of 1972 when Shirley Chisholm became the first African American woman to run for president.
• Write about participating in the 1965 Selma to Montgomery march. What emotions would you experience?
• Write about the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement on your community, from your perspective.
• If you could sit in the audience while Maya Angelou recited her poem for the inauguration of Bill Clinton, how would you describe her performance?

Unsung Heroes Of Black History

In relation to journal prompts for Black History Month, Unsung Heroes of Black History provides an opportunity to delve into the lesser-known figures who have made an impact. Here are 20 writing prompts to explore these overlooked historical figures:

• Research an unsung hero from Black history and write a biographical sketch about their life.
• How did this unsung hero impact the society during their time?
• Write a letter of appreciation to your chosen unsung hero, outlining their contributions.
• Create a dialogue you would have with this unsung hero if you had the chance to meet them.
• List and reflect on five key lessons you've learned from this unsung hero's life.
• Imagining their life, describe a day in their shoes.
• Write a poem honoring their life and contributions.
• Analyze the societal challenges your chosen hero had to overcome. How did they navigate through them?
• Write about the legacy of this unsung hero. How is their work impacting today’s society?
• Imagine this unsung hero was your mentor. What advice or guidance might they give you?
• What characteristics and qualities do you admire in this unsung hero?
• Write a news article as if you were reporting on their achievements during their time.
• If you could ask them one question, what would it be and why?
• Reflect on how this unsung hero’s experience has changed your perspective on Black history.
• Visualize a landmark or monument dedicated to your unsung hero. Describe what it looks like and its significance.
• Write an obituary for this unsung hero highlighting their pursuits and accomplishments.
• How did the societal limitations or political climate of their time affect their work or mission?
• Write a personal reflection on how this unsung hero has influenced your understanding of resilience, courage, and determination.
• Draft an argument for why this unsung hero should be more widely recognized.
• Write a script for a short documentary film about the life and achievements of this unsung hero.

Intersectionality In Black History

Exploring intersectionality in black history through journal prompts allows us to study and understand the complex experiences of individuals who identify with multiple social, racial, and economic groups. To delve into this examination, here are 20 writing suggestions:

• Ponder on a historical example of intersectionality within black history. How have multiple identities intersected in this instance?
• Write about the experience of black women in the civil rights movement.
• Chronicle the journey of a notable black LGBTQ+ individual from history and their contribution to society.
• Address the influence of economic class within the black community throughout history.
• Sketch out how the intersection of black and immigrant identities has shaped societal progression.
• Reflect on the effects of the intersectionality of race and gender on a black individual in history.
• Write about a historic black figure who had a disability. How did their unique intersectional identity affect their experiences?
• Think about how a black religious leader has experienced intersectionality in their life and how it impacted their work.
• Discuss the relationship between race and mental health within the black community.
• Write about the intersectionality within a specific sporting event such as the Olympic Games.
• Think about the role that age has played in the black community's fight for justice, and how different generations have experienced intersectionality.
• Explore the intersection of black identity with indigenous identity, considering shared and unique experiences.
• Choose a piece of black literature that addresses intersectionality. Reflect on its messages and implications.
• Discuss intersectional discrimination within the legal system and how it has affected black communities.
• Think about how intersectionality impacts the education of black students, particularly those with additional identities (such as being LGBTQIA+ or having disabilities).
• Reflect on how intersectionality played a role in a specific event or era in black history.
• Write about the intersection of black identity and art. Discuss a black artist who has influenced a particular genre or medium.
• Reflect on the intersectionality of race, politics, and public policy throughout black history.
• Explore the intersection of black and Latino identities in the United States. Reflect on notable figures or events that highlight this intersectionality.
• Think about how intersectionality impacts black activism, considering the influence of different identities within movements.

Black Music And Its Influence

Deeply interwoven with the history and experiences of the African American community, Black music and its influence provides fertile ground for exploration and reflection. Here are 20 journal prompts focused on Black music and its influence:

• Write about a Black artist whose music has shaped the contemporary music landscape. What contributions did they make?
• Describe a Black music performance that deeply moved or inspired you. What about it spoke to you most?
• Reflect on the influence of Black gospel music on modern pop and rock genres.
• Detail how hip-hop, which emerged from Black communities, has influenced global culture.
• Write about a song lyric from a Black artist that resonates with you and explain why.
• Think about the role of spirituals and field hollers in the history of Black music. What feelings or messages were they often used to convey?
• Analyze the social and political messages you have noticed in the songs of Black artists.
• Explore the intersection of Black music and the Civil Rights Movement.
• Write a tribute to an influential Black musician who has passed away.
• Discuss how jazz, a genre with roots in the Black community, has evolved over time.
• Explore the way Black music has impacted the fashion industry.
• Identify three ways that Black music has influenced your personal taste in music.
• Discuss the role of Black music in promoting social justice issues.
• Write about the impact of Black music on the film industry, citing specific examples.
• Examine the influence of African rhythms and harmonies on various Western music genres.
• Discuss how Black music has created spaces for Black expression and identity.
• List three Black female artists who have broken barriers in the music industry.
• Reflect on how Black music continues to push boundaries and redefine norms in the music industry.
• Write about the importance of music in the Black family or community settings you have observed or experienced.
• Discuss the positive effects of the global recognition and appreciation of Black music.

Black Literature And Authors

Examining black literature and authors allows us to recognize and appreciate the rich tapestry of African-American cultural experiences, fueling insightful journal entries about race, resilience, and resistance. Here are 20 journal prompts around the theme of Black Literature and Authors:

• Write a short reflection on your favorite piece of Black Literature and how it resonated with you.
• Which black author's life story inspires you and why?
• How does Black Literature challenge the narratives of mainstream literature?
• Write a letter to an African-American author whose work significantly impacted your thinking.
• Discuss the themes you frequently come across in Black Literature.
• Which themes from Black Literature are still relevant today and why?
• How do black authors inspire you in your daily pursuits?
• Discuss a memorable quote from a Black author and explain why it's meaningful to you.
• Write a book review about a Black-authored book you recently read.
• Explore a lesser-known Black author whose work you feel should get more recognition.
• Write about a character from a Black literature piece that you particularly identified with.
• If you could have a conversation with a black author (dead or alive), who would it be and why?
• Discuss how Black Literature has evolved through different historical periods.
• Write about a Black literary work that shook or challenged your beliefs.
• How would you encourage someone unfamiliar with Black Literature to start exploring it?
• Analyze the writing style of your favorite Black author.
• Write about a moment in a Black authoured book that moved you emotionally.
• If you could change the plot of a Black-authored book, which one would it be and why?
• Discuss an inspiring journey of a character in a Black Literature piece.
• Write about a Black authoured book that you think should be mandatory reading in all schools and why.

Black Culture And Traditions

Exploring Black culture and traditions through journaling allows us to better understand and appreciate the richness and diversity of the Black experience. Here are 20 prompts to inspire your writing on Black Culture and Traditions:

• Reflect on a significant piece of Black literature you've read. What did you learn from it?
• Write about your favorite Black musician or musical style and its cultural impact.
• Describe a moment when you experienced a Black cultural tradition. How did it make you feel?
• List three ways Black culture has influenced mainstream society.
• Think about a historical event pertaining to Black culture. Describe its significance.
• Write a brief review of a film or play by a Black artist that has moved you.
• Explore the meaning and symbolism of a common Black cultural tradition or artifact.
• Think about the importance of family in Black culture. How does this resonate with you?
• Write about a significant Black author and their impact.
• Chronicle the evolution of a particular aspect of Black culture over the years.
• Discuss the influence of Black culture in the area of sports.
• Describe the importance of religious faith within the Black community.
• Reflect on the significance of soul food in Black culture.
• Write about the role of music in Black community gatherings.
• Discuss the impact of African diaspora on Black culture and traditions.
• Reflect on the role of Black culture in the civil rights movement.
• Describe the importance and role of historic Black universities.
• Write about the influence of Black fashion.
• Discuss the importance of oral tradition and story-telling in Black culture.
• Reflect on how Black culture and traditions have personally influenced you.

Impact Of Black History On Today’s Society

The significance of Black history plays a significant role in shaping today's society, prompting important discussions about race, equality, and justice. Here are 20 journal prompts that allow you to delve deeper into the impact of Black history on society:

• Reflect on a key figure from Black history who you believe has significantly impacted society. Why does this individual stand out to you?
• Write about a moment in Black history that shifted societal perceptions and led to large-scale changes.
• Describe how the Civil Rights Movement has impacted the rights and freedoms we enjoy today.
• List three lessons contemporary society can learn from the Harlem Renaissance.
• Think about a current social issue that is directly linked to historical injustices faced by Black people. Discuss potential solutions.
• Explore the influence of Black culture in the arts and entertainment industry.
• Reflect on the impact of Black-owned businesses on economic diversity.
• Write about how Black inventors have advanced technology and innovation.
• Discuss how Black Literature has shaped societal perceptions and conversations around racial bias.
• Consider the role that Hip Hop has played in expressing Black voices and challenging societal norms.
• Reflect on a significant legal case that advanced civil rights and led to societal change.
• Write about the influence of the Black Panther Party on today's social activism movements.
• Explore how the Black Lives Matter movement has reshaped societal perceptions and attitudes towards systematic racism.
• Discuss the importance of representation and the impact of seeing Black individuals in positions of power on society.
• Reflect on how Black history has influenced your personal understanding of racial justice and equality.
• Write about the ongoing battle for voting rights and its roots in the struggles of Black history.
• Discuss the role of Black soldiers in wars and how it influenced racial equality in the military.
• Reflect on how sports figures in Black history have used their platforms for societal change.
• Write about how Black Feminism has impacted the broader feminist movement.
• Discuss how the examination of Black history informs and impacts discussions about racial inequality today.

Prominent Black Scientists And Inventors

Highlighting the contributions and achievements of Prominent Black Scientists and Inventors through journal prompts can serve as a reflective exercise to honor Black History Month. Here are 20 prompts that can initiate these insightful explorations:

• Write about a Black scientist whose work has inspired you. How have they impacted your understanding of the world?
• Research and reflect on the work of a historical Black inventor. In what ways has their invention shaped society?
• Discuss the challenges faced by Dr. Patricia Bath, a pioneer in the field of ophthalmology.
• How did George Washington Carver's work with agricultural products influence today's farming techniques?
• Pen a letter to Lewis Latimer thanking him for his contributions to electric light.
• Write about your feelings after learning about the accomplishments of Dr. Mae Jemison, the first Black woman astronaut.
• Recount the achievements of Percy Lavon Julian in the field of chemical synthesis of medicinal drugs.
• Explore how Otis Boykin's creation of electrical devices found its way to modern technologies.
• Reflect on how Elijah McCoy's lubrication inventions can be perceived as metaphors for smoothing the way for future Black inventors.
• Consider the impact of Dr. Charles Drew's work on blood transfusions during World War II.
• How would you feel if you were Garret Morgan with the invention of the protection hood and signal improvements in traffic lights?
• Dwell upon the importance of Alexander Miles's enhancement of lift (elevator) safety.
• Put yourself in the shoes of Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, one of the first doctors to perform successful open-heart surgery.
• Reflect on your understanding of the past and present challenges faced by Black scientists and inventors.
• Express how you would have felt as Madam C.J. Walker while developing specialized hair products for African American women.
• Think about the role of Benjamin Banneker in shaping the layout of Washington D.C.
• Ponder about the contributions of chemist Alice Ball to the treatment of leprosy.
• Consider the path taken by Valarie Thomas in inventing the Illusion Transmitter and shaping NASA's use of technology.
• What qualities do you admire the most in Dr. Jane Cooke Wright, a trailblazer in cancer research?
• Imaginatively write a day in the life of Ernest Everett Just, a pioneering biologist in marine biology and embryology.

The Harlem Renaissance

Exploring The Harlem Renaissance through writing prompts invites us to immerse ourselves in the compelling era of Afro-American cultural, social, and artistic explosion. Here are twenty prompts to help you delve deeply into understanding and reflecting on The Harlem Renaissance period during your Black History Month journaling:

• Write about a prominent figure from The Harlem Renaissance and their contribution to black culture.
• Imagine attending a jazz club in Harlem during the 1920s. Describe your experience in detail.
• Choose a work of art (painting, poem, musical piece) from The Harlem Renaissance and write your personal interpretation of it.
• Reflect upon the role of The Harlem Renaissance in advancing civil rights.
• Chronicle a day in the life of a black artist during The Harlem Renaissance era.
• The Harlem Renaissance celebrated black culture and identity. How does this influence your own sense of identity?
• Write about how the Great Migration influenced the start of The Harlem Renaissance.
• Reflect on the importance of literature during The Harlem Renaissance. Choose a specific work to highlight.
• Describe the impact of The Harlem Renaissance on modern-day black culture.
• Write a poem inspired by Langston Hughes, a major figure of The Harlem Renaissance.
• Imagine and write a conversation between two figures from The Harlem Renaissance.
• Describe the role of women in The Harlem Renaissance. Choose a specific woman to focus on.
• Reflect on how The Harlem Renaissance challenged or confirmed stereotypes of the time.
• Discuss the impact of global events, like World War I, on The Harlem Renaissance.
• Write a scene set in a Harlem Renaissance theatre.
• Explore the end of The Harlem Renaissance: What caused it and what were its effects?
• Discuss a racial conflict during The Harlem Renaissance and its significance.
• Write a review of a speakeasy during The Harlem Renaissance as if you were a journalist of that time.
• Discuss the influence of The Harlem Renaissance on today's music and art.
• Reflect on a lesson you've learned from studying The Harlem Renaissance and how you can apply that in your life today.

The Black Power Movement

Diving deeper into the exploration of Black History, the Black Power Movement is a pivotal part in our journey of understanding, and these prompts will serve to guide thoughtful reflections and analyses. Here are 20 writing prompts themed around The Black Power Movement:

• Explore the factors that led to the birth of the Black Power Movement. What were they?
• Write a letter to one of the key leaders of the Black Power Movement. What would you say?
• Reflect on the impact of the Black Power Movement on society during its peak.
• Explain how the Black Power Movement has contributed to your personal understanding of race and racial justice.
• Detail one key event in the Black Power Movement and its effect on the larger society.
• Imagine being a part of the Black Power Movement. Write a journal entry for one day.
• How did the media of the time portray the Black Power Movement? Was this portrayal fair or biased?
• Draw parallels between the Black Power Movement and present-day movements for racial justice.
• Reflect on a speech or piece of literature that emerged from the Black Power Movement.
• Detail the role women played in the Black Power Movement.
• Examine the connection between the Black Power Movement and the broader Civil Rights Movement.
• Think about the concept of "Black is Beautiful" that came out of the Black Power Movement. What does this statement mean to you?
• The Black Power Movement has had profound cultural impacts. Write about one that you find particularly striking.
• How does education today address and represent the Black Power Movement?
• Discuss the reactions from different sectors of society to the Black Power Movement.
• Reflect on the primary criticisms of the Black Power Movement during its time. What were they?
• Write a poem inspired by the ideals and goals of the Black Power Movement.
• Imagine an interview with a person who was against the Black Power Movement. What questions would you ask?
• Write about the after-effects of the Black Power Movement seen today.
• Summarize your thoughts and feelings about the Black Power Movement after completing these prompts.

Black Soldiers And Their Contributions To Wars

Exploring the influence and impact of Black soldiers and their contributions to wars through journaling provides an opportunity to delve into lesser-known events and personal experiences reflected in Black History Month. Here are 20 journal prompts to inspire reflection on this important segment of history:

• Write about a Black soldier from a specific war and how they contributed to the fight.
• Reflect upon how Black soldiers have shaped the course of history.
• Detail a story of a Black regiment or battalion known for their valor.
• Compare the contributions of Black soldiers in two different wars.
• Imagine a day in the life of a Black soldier during wartime. What challenges did they face?
• Create a letter as if you're a Black soldier writing home. What might you say?
• What are some setbacks Black soldiers might have faced during their service due to prejudice?
• How did the sacrifices and achievements of Black soldiers pave the way for civil rights?
• Detail the story of a Black war hero and their impact post-war.
• Write about a specific war event where Black soldiers played a pivotal role.
• Reflect on the journey of a Black soldier from enlistment to combat.
• Consider what motivations a Black individual might have had for enlisting in the war.
• Describe the legacy left by the "Buffalo Soldiers," focusing on their contributions and historical significance.
• How did Black soldiers contribute to the wars despite being segregated in many cases?
• Illustrate the triumphs and trials of a fictional Black soldier in the war of your choice.
• Write about Black soldiers' contributions to US wars and how they were acknowledged or overlooked.
• How did Black veterans continue to fight for equality after they returned home?
• Detail an account of how Black soldiers were treated by their fellow soldiers of other races.
• Reflect on the accomplishments of the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II.
• Imagine you're interviewing a Black soldier after a war. Detail the questions you'd ask and their potential responses.

Exploring Black Feminism

Exploring Black Feminism through journal prompts aligns our personal narratives with the wider socio-political movements, deepening an understanding of ourselves and our society. Here are 20 writing prompts to delve into various aspects of Black Feminism:

• Discuss a moment when you first engaged with Black Feminism. What inspired your curiosity?
• Write about a Black Feminist who has greatly influenced you. How has their work affected your life?
• Reflect on a moment when you first recognized the intersectionality of gender and race. How did this awareness change your perspective?
• How has Black Feminism influenced your outlook on social justice and equality?
• Create a letter to a young person in your life explaining the significance of Black Feminism.
• Write about a time when you had to confront discrimination or prejudice. How did you react and what role has Black Feminism played in shaping these reactions?
• Name three Black Feminist texts that have impacted you. What made them particularly striking?
• Discuss the influence of Black Feminism in shaping your career choices or professional trajectory.
• Reflect on a time you engaged in activism or advocacy. How did your understanding of Black Feminism influence your actions?
• Write about a societal stereotype that Black Feminism has helped you to debunk, and how this has improved your understanding of yourself.
• Jot down three ways in which you can promote Black Feminist ideas in your daily life.
• Reflect on how Black Feminism has influenced your appreciation of Black arts and culture.
• Imagine you're hosting a dinner party with your favorite Black Feminist icons. Who would you invite and why?
• Explore a time when your understanding of Black Feminism was challenged. What did you learn from this?
• Mention a Black Feminist quote that inspires you and explain what it means to you.
• Write about how Black Feminism can shape the future for young Black girls.
• Discuss the role of Black Feminism in shaping your personal relationships.
• Reflect on how Black Feminism has enriched your mental and emotional health.
• Explore your dreams for the future of Black Feminism. How do you envision its evolution?
• Write about the legacy you hope to leave through your engagement with Black Feminism.

Impact Of African Diaspora

Exploring the societal, cultural, and historical implications of the African Diaspora in your journal can imbue a richer understanding and appreciation of Black history. Here are 20 prompts to guide your reflections on the Impact of African Diaspora:

• Reflect on the resilience and strength shown by African Diaspora communities. How does this inspire you?
• Write about a cultural element (music, food, language, etc) that originated from the African Diaspora and has enriched today's society.
• Describe a significant figure from the African Diaspora who has contributed to the quality of life in their adopted country.
• Explore the impact of the African Diaspora on economic development in your country.
• Analyze the influence of African Diaspora in shaping the modern world's socio-cultural fabric.
• Write about a book, a movie, or a piece of art that accurately portrays the experience of African Diaspora.
• Discuss the role of African Diaspora in the Civil Rights Movement in America.
• Write about an incident from history or current events that highlights the struggles faced by the African Diaspora.
• How has the African Diaspora influenced your perception about racial and ethnic diversity?
• Reflect on key living conditions disparities that African Diaspora communities face in your country.
• Write about the psychological and emotional challenges of displacement as experienced by African Diaspora.
• Explore how the African Diaspora contributed to the evolution of your country's political landscape.
• How has African Diaspora influenced your country's entertainment industry?
• Discuss the disparities in education opportunities for African Diaspora communities and the potential solutions.
• Reflect on the strengths of African Diaspora communities and how they enrich our society.
• Write about a current event that directly impacts the African Diaspora community.
• Analyze the contributions of African Diaspora to science and technological advancements.
• Explore the unique challenges faced by African Diaspora women and their strategies for resilience.
• Discuss the African Diaspora's contributions to sports in your country.
• Write about the sense of identity among the African Diaspora and how it influences their lived experience.

Legacy Of Martin Luther King Jr.

Exploring the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. through journaling enables us to delve deeper into his incredible life and achievements, and the impact that he had on black history. Here are 20 journal prompts to help you navigate this exploration:

• Reflect on Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech. Do you believe his dream is being realized today?
• What do you consider Martin Luther King Jr.'s greatest accomplishment? Why?
• Write about a time when you've experienced or witnessed discrimination. How did Martin Luther King Jr.'s philosophy help you understand or cope with the event?
• What parts of Martin Luther King Jr.'s ideology or approach resonate the most with you and why?
• If you had the opportunity to meet Martin Luther King Jr., what do you think you would say to him?
• Martin Luther King Jr.'s methods were rooted in non-violence. How do you see this reflected in today's civil rights agenda?
• How do you think Martin Luther King Jr. would react to the Black Lives Matter Movement?
• Write a reflection on the effect Martin Luther King Jr. had on the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
• How has Martin Luther King Jr.'s teaching influenced your personal beliefs and values?
• Think about the phrase "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." What does this quote mean to you?
• If you could change one thing about the world in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy, what would it be?
• In what ways has Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision for a "Beloved Community", a society based on justice, equal opportunity and love of one's fellow human beings, influenced you?
• How influential do you think Martin Luther King Jr.'s message is among today's youth?
• Do we still need a figure like Martin Luther King Jr. today? Why or why not?
• Dissect your favourite Martin Luther King Jr. quote and explain what makes it so impactful.
• How much progress do you think has been made towards Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream of racial equality?
• Consider Martin Luther King Jr. in comparison to other civil rights leaders. How do they differ? How are they similar?
• Explore the concept of "civil disobedience," as employed by Martin Luther King Jr.
• What specific issues or causes do you think Martin Luther King Jr. would advocate for if he were alive today?
• Imagine Martin Luther King Jr.'s reaction to the world today. Would he be proud of our progress, or disappointed? Explain why.

African American Firsts In The 20th Century

The recognition and appreciation of African American firsts in the 20th Century provide exceptional insights and reflection points during Black History Month. Here are 20 related journal prompts:

• Reflect on the importance of having the first African American U.S President in the 20th century.
• Write about what Jackie Robinson breaking the baseball color barrier meant to you.
• Imagine being present during Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I have a dream" speech. What emotions would you have experienced?
• Describe how Madam C.J. Walker, the first self-made female millionaire, influences your perception of business and entrepreneurship.
• List three ways in which Rosa Parks' refusal to move from her bus seat has impacted social movements today.
• Research more about Thurgood Marshall, the first African American Supreme Court Justice. What is the most inspiring aspect of his legacy?
• How might your life have been different if Hattie McDaniel hadn't been the first African American to win an Oscar? Explain.
• Write a conversation you would like to have with Bessie Coleman, the first African American female pilot.
• Record what you feel when you think about Arthur Ashe, the first African American man to win Wimbledon.
• Chronicle the achievements of Mae Jemison, the first African American woman astronaut, and share how those achievements inspire you.
• What lessons can you learn from Barack Obama being elected the first African American President in the 20th century?
• Imagine going to the theater to see Sidney Poitier become the first African American to win Best Actor at the Academy Awards.
• Reflect on the significance of Condoleezza Rice being appointed as the first African American woman Secretary of State.
• Write about the impact the Harlem Renaissance had on the United States and discuss how it affected the public view of African American culture.
• Study the legacy of Guion S. Bluford, the first African American in space. What can his journey teach us about perseverance and ambition?
• Imagine being on the sidelines watching Jesse Owens win four gold medals in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. What does his victory symbolize to you?
• Write about your feelings on Alvin Ailey establishing one of the most successful dance companies in the world.
• Reflect on how Robert L. Johnson, founder of BET, transformed media perception of black culture.
• Research Gwendolyn Brooks, the first African American to win a Pulitzer Prize. Write the impact of her work on your life or the world.
• Chronicle a few of the most influential Motown songs from the 1960s and their effect on American culture and civil rights.

The Great Migration And Its Effects

Drawing from the gripping historical narrative of the Great Migration and its effects, here are 20 writing prompts to explore this significant era:

• Imagine you're embarking on the Great Migration – describe your hopes and fears.
• Write a letter to a loved one explaining why you've decided to move North.
• Journal about the economic challenges African Americans faced in Southern states that triggered the Great Migration.
• Describe the scene at a train station during the peak of the Great Migration.
• Write a dialogue between a Southern farm owner and a worker who has decided to leave.
• Sketch a timeline of your fictional journey from the South to the North, detailing the cities you'd pass through and the changes you'd encounter.
• Explore the psychological impact of leaving your homeland in search of a better life.
• Discuss how the Great Migration shaped the cultural landscape of northern cities.
• Write about how the Great Migration influenced the Harlem Renaissance.
• Describe the racial tensions that emerged in northern cities as a result of the Great Migration.
• Discuss the role of prominent black newspapers in encouraging the Great Migration.
• Reflect on the societal effects on the South caused by the large-scale exodus.
• Write the story of a family that chose to stay in the South rather than participate in the Migration.
• Create a narrative from the perspective of a child experiencing the first day at a new school in the North.
• Imagine yourself as a blue-collar worker in the North adjusting to city life – detail your daily routine.
• Write about how the Great Migration influenced the civil rights movement.
• Explore the difference between the optimism at the beginning of the journey and the reality upon reaching the North.
• Discuss the role of music, specifically blues and jazz, in narrating the stories of the Great Migration.
• Detail the experiences that would be unique to women during the Great Migration.
• Reflect on how the historical narrative of the Great Migration shapes your understanding of present-day racial dynamics in America.

Black History Icons In The Sports Industry

Exploring Black History Icons in the Sports Industry through journaling invites us to recognize their breakthroughs, challenges, and impacts, further fostering an appreciation of their contributions. Here are 20 journal prompts to help you reflect on these iconic black figures in sports:

• Write about a defining moment in the career of an African American athlete.
• Develop a narrative around the obstacles faced by black athletes in the early years of sports.
• Reflect on the impact of Jackie Robinson breaking racial barriers in baseball.
• How have black athletes advanced civil rights causes using their platform?
• Describe how the life and success of Michael Jordan inspires you.
• Discuss your thoughts on the 'Black Power' salute by Tommie Smith and John Carlos at the 1968 Olympics.
• Examine the influence Serena Williams has had on women's tennis.
• What challenges do you imagine black athletes face outside their professional life?
• How did the career of Muhammad Ali impact society beyond the boxing ring?
• Write a letter to Venus Williams expressing your admiration.
• Discuss your opinion on how race relates to representation in your favorite sport.
• Explore the implications of Colin Kaepernick's knee-taking protest on racial inequalities.
• Write about Arthur Ashe's contribution to social issues besides his tennis achievements.
• How have athletes of color reshaped the future of sports, if at all?
• Imagine a conversation with Simone Biles. What would you ask her?
• Write about a black cyclist in a sport predominantly white. What challenges might they experience?
• How did Tiger Woods' success influence your thoughts about golf?
• Chronicle the career achievements of Florence Griffith-Joyner and her impact on track and field.
• Explore how the media's portrayal of black athletes has evolved over the years.
• Speculate on the future of sports and the role black athletes might play in it.

The African Roots And Its Influence

The African Roots and their Influence serves as a powerful catalyst for exploration and self-reflection, particularly during Black History Month. Here are 20 writing prompts to help you delve into this poignant topic:

• Discuss an African tradition that has shaped your family or community.
• Consider a significant figure in African history. How has their legacy influenced modern society?
• How has learning about your African roots shaped your personal identity?
• Describe an African cultural practice that you admire and discuss why.
• Reflect on an African cultural product (art, music, literature, etc.) that has impacted you personally.
• Write a tribute to an unsung hero of African history and analyze their influence.
• Discuss an African invention or innovation that has changed the world.
• Discuss the values imparted by your African ancestors that you still uphold.
• Analyze the influence of African cuisine in mainstream culture.
• Reflect on the resilience of the African people throughout history and describe how this inspires you.
• Write about the societal impact of the African Diaspora.
• Discuss the role African nations have played in global politics and development.
• How has education about African roots influenced your perception of the world?
• Reflect on the importance of preserving African cultural heritage.
• Examine the contributions of African women in shaping societies.
• Discuss the role of African folklore and oral traditions in preserving history and values.
• Analyze the transformation of African music and its global influence.
• Write a tribute to an African leader who has positively shaped your community or nation.
• Discuss the influence of African rituals and ceremonies on contemporary culture.
• Reflect on the importance of recognizing and celebrating African roots during Black History Month.

Black Contribution To The Film Industry

The rich narrative of Black contributions to the film industry provides a diverse landscape for reflective exploration and inspiration. Below are 20 prompts that will inspire your writing on Black contribution to the film industry.

• Reflect on the first black filmmaker you learned about. Which aspect of their work or life inspires you the most?
• Write about a character, played by a black actor, that resonates with you. How has this character influenced your perception of the world?
• Describe a scene from a film made by a black filmmaker that profoundly impacted you.
• Write about the evolution of black representation in films throughout the decades.
• Explore the groundbreaking work of a black cinematographer and how they have used visual storytelling to illuminate black narratives.
• Contemplate the importance of diversity in script-writing in offering an authentic representation of black lives.
• Reflect on how black directors, such as Spike Lee or Ava DuVernay, are challenging the industry's status quo.
• Detail the influence of black culture on the aesthetics and style of a film you recently watched.
• Write about how the Civil Rights Movement (1950s-1960s) influenced black cinema.
• Explore how the Black Lives Matter movement has impacted the contemporary film industry.
• Discuss the significance of a black actor/actress winning an Academy Award for the first time (Hattie McDaniel or Sidney Poitier).
• Reflect on the powerful themes explored in the film '12 Years a Slave' and its contribution to understanding black history.
• Write about the importance of films like 'Get Out' or 'Us' in portraying the black experience through the genre of horror.
• Write a review of a documentary highlighting the life or work of a notable black figure in the film industry.
• Document your thoughts on how black animation studios contribute to expanding representation in animated films.
• Write a character analysis of a particularly well-developed black character in a movie or TV series.
• Explore how comedy has been used as a powerful tool in black cinema to address serious social issues.
• Document your thoughts on the intersection of music and film in black cinema.
• Describe the significance of 'Black Panther' in reshaping the representation of black characters in superhero films.
• Reflect on what future narratives you would like to see in black cinema.

Historic Landmarks Of Black History

Exploring the historic landmarks of Black History through journaling encourages deeper understanding of the resilience and achievements of African Americans. Below are 20 prompts for your reflective journaling on these significant sites:

• Describe what sites like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site mean to you.
• Research the Selma To Montgomery National Historic Trail. What thoughts and emotions does it evoke?
• Write about a visit to a Black History landmark. How did the experience influence you?
• Reflect on the influence a Black History landmark, like the Apollo Theater, had on American culture.
• If you could visit any historic landmark of Black History, where would you go and why?
• What significance does Brown vs. Board of Education National Historic Site hold for you?
• Explore the challenges faced by African Americans through the lens of the African Burial Ground National Monument.
• Write about the contribution of a historic figure associated with a Black history landmark.
• Discover the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site and reflect on their achievements.
• Reflect on the importance of preserving landmarks like the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historic Park.
• Write a letter to yourself after visiting the Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument. What would you say?
• What inspirations can you draw from the Rosa Parks Museum?
• Reflect on the significance of landmarks like the Pullman National Monument.
• Explore the themes of perseverance and courage at the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument.
• Write about the lessons you've learned from the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
• What role do you think the National Civil Rights Museum plays in educating future generations?
• Write about the symbolic importance of the Amistad Mutiny Site in New Haven, Connecticut.
• Explore how the Black Wall Street Massacre Site ignites conversations about racial violence and institutional changes.
• What feelings does the Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument evoke?
• Write about the connections between the present and the past through the lens of a Black History landmark.

The Role Of The Black Church In The Civil Rights Movement

The role of the Black Church during the Civil Rights Movement acted as a significant seat of power and avenue for strategic planning, serving as a unifying force that helped to orchestrate pivotal moments in the fight for equal rights. Here are 20 journal prompts to help you explore this important topic:

• Describe the atmosphere of a Black Church meeting during the Civil Rights Movement.
• How did the church leaders influence the trajectory of the movement?
• Write about a sermon of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that you find most inspiring. Why?
• Consider the role of church-led nonviolent protests. How did they impact the movement?
• Record the impact of a standout church leader other than Dr. King in the Civil Rights Movement.
• Reflect on the community's response to the involvement of the Black Church in the movement.
• Write about a major Civil Rights event that was planned within a Black Church.
• How did music originating from the Black Church help fuel the Civil Rights Movement?
• Discuss the challenges faced by Black Churches in their support of the Civil Rights Movement.
• Write a letter from the perspective of a church member during a pivotal event in the movement.
• Detail the significances of the Black Church as a safe space during the movement.
• Compare the role of the Black Church in the Civil Rights Movement to its role in society today.
• Write about the role of women in the Black Church during the Civil Rights Movement.
• How did the Black Church help to address economic inequalities during the movement?
• Explore the legacy of a particular Black Church involved in the Civil Rights Movement.
• Reflect on the courage it took for church members to stand up for their rights during this inconsistent era.
• Explain how the principles of Christianity were used to combat racial injustices.
• Discuss how the role of the Black Church in the Civil Rights movement influenced other churches.
• Describe how a particular hymn or gospel song encapsulates the spirit of the movement.
• Reflect on a surprising fact you learned about the connection between the Black Church and the Civil Rights movement.

Black Entrepreneurs And Innovators

Focusing on Black Entrepreneurs and Innovators during Black History Month can inspire us to reflect on the challenges, victories and impactful contributions made by these individuals. Below are 20 journal prompts to help you explore this theme:

• Write about a Black entrepreneur or innovator who inspires you. What is it about their story that motivates you?
• Think about a business idea that you've had. What would it take for you to take the leap to pursue it, similar to the Black entrepreneurs you've learned about?
• What challenges do you think Black entrepreneurs and innovators face that others might not?
• Explore the history of a well-known Black enterprise, highlighting the key moments of its journey.
• Write about the importance of innovation in fighting racial inequality.
• Reflect on how Black entrepreneurs have influenced our society economically or technologically.
• Choose a Black inventor and describe the impact of their invention on our everyday lives.
• Imagine you had an opportunity to interview a Black entrepreneur. What would you ask them and why?
• Reflect on the importance of representation in entrepreneurship.
• Write a short bio about a lesser-known Black inventor and their contribution.
• Explore a moment in history when a Black entrepreneur or innovator overcame major obstacles.
• Write about the impact of Black-owned businesses in your community.
• Imagine your life if a certain invention by a Black innovator never existed. How would it be different?
• How can we encourage more diversity in innovation and entrepreneurship?
• Write a letter of appreciation to a Black entrepreneur or innovator who has personally influenced you.
• Reflect on the role of perseverance in the journey of a Black entrepreneur or innovator you admire.
• Write about how the success of Black entrepreneurs has shaped Black culture and history.
• Explore how Black innovators have impacted an industry of interest to you.
• Reflect on the path of a historic Black innovator and how they might inspire future generations.
• Write about a time when learning about a Black entrepreneur or innovator changed or broadened your perspective.

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43 Black History Month Writing Prompts

The month of February is Black History Month in the United States.

This is a time for African-Americans to celebrate their achievements and role within the U.S.

Studying Black History is an important part of your education because it provides historical context for the journey of African-Americans while also highlighting the problems they still face today.

Below, you will find a list of prompts that will help improve your writing skills as well as gain a deeper understanding of Black history.

Using This Guide

First and foremost, it’s important to research your topic when writing about historical events or holidays. 

Once you’ve done that, you can use these prompts however you’d like.

But if you’re unsure of just how to get started, here is a list of creative ways that you can use this guide:

• Pick a random number and use that prompt.
• Choose a topic you’re unsure about. Research it, and then write about it.
• Ask a friend or family member to pick a prompt for you.

Time to Pick a Prompt

• Why is George Washington Carver an important figure in Black history?
• Do you think schools should teach more Black history?
• One way that I can help prevent discrimination is…
• Pick a Black woman in history, and write a few paragraphs about her.
• Who is your favorite Black musician? Why?
• Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a dream” speech is arguably his most notable speech. What is your dream for the world?
• If you could interview one influential Black person, who would it be? What would you ask them?
• Name two inventions created by Black Americans. How are they significant in your life today?
• What do you think a world without racism could look like?
• Who is your favorite Black actor? Why?
• Research a Black poet, and write about what your favorite poem means to you.
• How did the Civil Rights Movement change the world?
• Why do we celebrate Black history?
• How would you feel if you weren’t allowed to go to the same places or use the same things as your friend?
• What would you have done to help Harriet Tubman?
• Why do you think it took so long for the U.S. to have a Black president?
• Describe racism in your own words.
• Write a poem about racial injustice.
• What are some creative ways your class or school could celebrate Black History Month?
• Who is your favorite Black athlete? Why?
• What inspires you to be a better person?
• Why was Rosa Parks an influential person in American History?
• Pick a local Black-owned business, and write an advertisement for them.
• Write a few paragraphs about why the Black Lives Matter movement is an important step toward equality.
• Write about a time when you were treated unfairly for something that is out of your control. How did you feel?
• Does your family talk about racism?
• What is the most important thing you’ve learned during Black History Month?
• What do you think it would have been like to be at the Emancipation Proclamation speech?
• In what ways do you think the media incorrectly depicts Black Americans?
• Research Ruth Lloyd, and write 3-4 paragraphs about what you’ve learned.
• Write a poem about segregation.
• Research the Harlem Renaissance. What do you think is the most important cultural contribution to come from it?
• Write 3-4 paragraphs about the significance of Kamala Harris as the Vice President.
• Read a book with a Black main character and write a review about it.
• Do you think civil disobedience is ever okay?
• How has life for Black Americans changed in the last 10 years? 15 years? 30 years?
• Pick a historical park or monument that commemorates Black history, and write a few paragraphs about its significance.
• Who is one prominent figure in Black history that you think everyone should know about?
• Click here and read about an important person in Black history. What are some ways their impact can be seen today?
• Why was February chosen for Black History Month?
• Who is your favorite Black author? Why?
• Besides Black History Month, is one way that the U.S. celebrates Black history?
• Who do you think is the most influential person in Black history? Why?

What’s Next?

If you enjoyed these writing prompts and want to try more, we’ve got you covered!

We also have resources for teachers and parents, covering a multitude of subjects.

If you are looking for a particular subject and can’t find it, let us know – there’s every chance we’ll be inspired to create what you’re looking for!

We’d love to hear from you.

54 Super Inspiring Black History Month Writing Prompts

By: Author Valerie Forgeard

Posted on Published: October 10, 2022  - Last updated: July 1, 2023

Categories Creativity , History , Inspiration , Society , Writing

Are you looking for a way to get inspired this Black History Month? If so, you’re in luck! In this blog post, we will be discussing 54 writing prompts that will help get your creative juices flowing. Whether you are a student who needs to write a paper or an adult who wants to reflect on the progress that has been made, these prompts will help you celebrate black history in a meaningful way.

54 Black History Month Writing Prompts

• Write about what Black History Month means to you.
• Write about the importance of recognizing the contributions of black people in history.
• Write about your favorite black personalities and why they’re so important to you.
• Write about your favorite black character in history and why they inspire you so much.
• Write an acrostic poem about the life of a black historical figure. What’s their story? How did they overcome adversity? How can you identify with their experiences?
• Write a letter to a black historical figure and tell them how their work has impacted you personally. Tell them what they meant to you and how you want to carry on their legacy.
• Write about how you learned about the Black Lives Matter movement and what it meant to you then and now.
• Write about your favorite Black History Month activity.
• Describe how you celebrate Black History Month.
• Write about what it means to be black in the United States – and how we can change that!
• Write about how you once made an assumption about a person based on your appearance that turned out wrong.
• Write a list of your favorite black heroes.
• Describe how you can use your skills to help your community.
• Write down what you learned from a black role model or why it’s important to you.
• Write about a time when you felt like you didn’t belong.
• Write about an important moment in black history that was overlooked by society or misrepresented by mainstream media.
• Write about your favorite black movie or show on TV and why it’s your favorite (or if there’s more than one).
• Write about what it would be like if there were no more racism against people because of their race.
• Write about what’s changed since the civil rights movement and what hasn’t changed yet.
• Write about how you can ensure that Black History Month isn’t just a month a year but something that’s integrated into our daily lives as Americans who’re proud of our African American heritage!
• Write about your favorite Black History Month song.
• Describe an event in Black history that inspires you.
• Write about the many ways black people have impacted the world.
• Write about the history of the civil rights movement.
• Write about a black woman who stood up against racism.

Questions to Inspire You to Write About Black History Month

• How do you feel about Black History Month?
• What’s your favorite memory of a black person?
• How have you learned about your African heritage?
• What does being African American mean to you?
• What is the most important thing that’s happened to the African American community in the last century?
• What’s an important lesson you’ve learned from black history?
• If you could be a black historical figure like Martin Luther King Jr or Frederick Douglass, who’d it be and why?
• What’s the main idea behind Black History Month?
• How do you honor Black History Month?
• Why do you think it’s important to learn about black history?
• How has learning about black history impacted your life?
• Where did African American culture come from?
• If you could go back in time and meet a black historical figure, who’d it be and why?
• If there was one thing that people could learn about black history from reading your story, what would it be? And why?
• What were some of the most important moments in black history?
• What does it mean for a society that we still have to fight for equality?
• What did you learn about black history that surprised you?
• Who’re your favorite Black people, and why are they so important to you?
• What creative ways are there to celebrate Black History Month in your classroom or school?
• If I could meet one African American from history, who’d it be and why?
• What would society look like if this person hadn’t lived?
• If Martin Luther King, Jr. were alive today, how do you think he’d feel about race relations in the world today?
• How have the lives of African Americans changed in the last 10 years?
• Why is George Washington Carver an important figure in black history?
• What’re the best books you’ve read to understand black history?
• What do you think about how black people are portrayed in the media?
• If you could go back in time, what would you tell your ancestors about being black in America?
• What challenges does the African American community face today?
• Why is it important to know and recognize the accomplishments of black Americans?

Black History Month Activity Ideas

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of the black American community and learn more about American history. It’s also an opportunity to educate others about blacks’ role in American history, especially during the Civil Rights Movement.

Here are some activities you can do during Black History Month:

• Watch movies or documentaries about important figures in black history, such as Martin Luther King Jr, Harriet Tubman, or Rosa Parks.
• Read books by or about black authors or figures. If you’re looking for good books to read, check out our list of 75 must-read books by African American authors.
• Visit a site related to African American history, such as the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.
• Attend a performance at an arts center featuring African Americans music and dance. In February, you may find performances at local schools or community centers, as they often host events during Black History Month.
• Make artwork inspired by African American culture using materials such as fabric scraps and glue sticks. You can use your creations as decorations for your home or give them as gifts.
• Learn to dance like Michael Jackson, James Brown, or Beyoncé Knowles.

Black History Month is a time to recognize the contributions of African Americans to the history of the United States and the world. It’s also a time to learn about those who came before us and see how they’ve shaped our lives and society today.

We must remember that many of our institutions were built by black people who were enslaved and who, until recently, received no recognition for their work or ideas. That’s why it’s important to recognize these historical figures during Black History Month, so they aren’t forgotten.

Black History Month encourages us to have important conversations about race in the United States and worldwide – and if we don’t have these conversations enough at other times of the year, it offers us all the opportunity to start them now!

Black History Month Writing Prompts for Students

Let’s celebrate Black History Month! As educators, parents, and mentors, we understand the importance of fostering a sense of pride, knowledge, and cultural awareness in the hearts and minds of our students.

We’ve compiled a collection of engaging Black History Month writing prompts for students.

These writing prompts are designed to spark curiosity, encourage reflection, and inspire young minds to explore the rich tapestry of African American history.

Check out our top list of Black History Month writing prompts for students.  This list features excellent writing prompts suitable for Kindergarten, elementary school , and middle school students . Let’s get writing!

By The Learning Network

Below, a collection of Times articles, essays, photographs, videos, infographics and more that can help bring the wealth of Black history and culture into your classroom.

We begin with links to historic Times front pages, from the Dred Scott decision of 1857 through the civil rights movement and on to the election of Kamala Harris, the first woman of color to be elected vice president of the United States, and the confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first Black woman to sit on the Supreme Court. Below that, you’ll find a selection of more recent pieces from across Times sections on Black history and contemporary culture, including a section featuring the “Black History, Continued” series and “The 1619 Project.” Finally, we list some of our own recent related Learning Network lesson plans and writing prompts in the hopes that they inspire further reading, writing and discussion.

Our list is long, yes, but we also know it’s not nearly complete. Are there important pieces about Black history that you teach with? Please let us know in the comments.

Here’s what you'll find below:

Historic headlines, special new york times projects, selected recent reporting and multimedia, learning network lessons, writing prompts and films.

Archival articles that document key moments in Black history, and give us a glimpse into the time period in which they unfolded.

Historic Front Pages

Selected front pages and articles from The Learning Network’s “ On This Day ” feature which ran from 1999 to 2014. Please note that historic front pages published after that include a link to the front page and the original digital article.

1857 | Decision of the Supreme Court in the Dred Scott Case

1863 | President Abraham Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation

1947 | Dodgers Purchase Robinson, First Negro in Modern Major League Baseball

1954 | High Court Bans School Segregation; 9-to-0 Decision Grants Time to Comply

1956 | High Court Rules Bus Segregation Unconstitutional

1957 | Arkansas Troops Bar Negro Pupils; Governor Defiant

1957 | President Sends Troops to Little Rock, Federalizes Arkansas National Guard; Tells Nation He Acted to Avoid An Anarchy

1957 | Miss Gibson Wimbledon Victor

1960 | Negro Sitdowns Stir Fear Of Wider Unrest in South

1961 | 400 U.S. Marshals Sent to Alabama as Montgomery Bus Riots Hurt 20; President Bids State Keep Order

1963 | Birmingham Bomb Kills 4 Negro Girls In Church; Riots Flare; 2 Boys Slain

1963 | Mississippi Gives Meredith Degree

1963 | 200,000 March for Civil Rights in Orderly Washington Rally

1964 | 3 In Rights Drive Reported Missing

1964 | Civil Rights Bill Passed, 73-27; Johnson Urges All To Comply; Dirksen Berates Goldwater

1964 | Martin Luther King Wins The Nobel Prize for Peace

1965 | New Negro Riots Erupt on Coast; 3 Reported Shot

1965 | The Big Parade: On the Way to Montgomery

1965 | 25,000 Go to Alabama’s Capitol

1965 | Malcolm X Shot to Death at Rally Here

1967 | President Sees Marshall Take Supreme Court Seat

1968 | Martin Luther King is Slain in Memphis

1968 | 2 Black Power Advocates Ousted From Olympics

1971 | Supreme Court, 9-0, Backs Busing to Combat South’s Dual Schools, Rejecting Administration Stand

1975 | Ashe Triumphs at Wimbledon

1991 | Police Brutality Under Wide Review by Justice Dept.

1992 | Los Angeles Policemen Acquitted In Taped Beating

2008 | Obama Elected President as Racial Barrier Falls

2013 | Prayer, Anger and Protests Greet Verdict in Florida Case ( Article )

2014 | Protests in Ferguson, Mo. ( Article )

2015 | Races Unite for Nine Killed by Gunman at Black Church ( Article )

2020 | Two Crises Convulse a Nation: A Pandemic and Police Violence ( Article )

2020 | Kamala Harris Makes History as First Woman and Woman of Color as Vice President ( Article )

2022 | Jackson Confirmed as First Black Woman to Sit on Supreme Court ( Article )

From Our Historic Headlines Collection

Selected articles from The Learning Network’s 2011 “ Historic Headlines ” collection that connects famous historical events to recent news.

Jan. 13, 1990 | L. Douglas Wilder Becomes First Elected Black Governor in U.S.

Feb. 1, 1960 | Black Students and the Greensboro Sit-In

Feb. 21, 1965 | Malcolm X Is Assassinated by Black Muslims

Feb. 29, 1968 | Kerner Commission Reports on U.S. Racial Inequality

March 6, 1857 | Supreme Court Issues Dred Scott Decision

March 7, 1965 | Civil Rights Marchers Attacked in Selma

March 15, 1965 | President Johnson Calls for Passage of Voting Rights Act

April 4, 1968 | The Assassination of Martin Luther King

April 20, 1971 | Supreme Court Rules That Busing Can Be Used to Integrate Schools

May 17, 1954 | Supreme Court Declares School Segregation Unconstitutional in Brown v. Board of Education

May 1, 1992 | Rodney King Asks, ‘Can We All Get Along?’

June 21, 1964 | Three Civil Rights Workers Missing

July 5, 1975 | Arthur Ashe Becomes First Black Man to Win Wimbledon

July 6, 1957 | Althea Gibson Becomes First Black Player to Win Wimbledon

Aug. 11, 1965 | Riots in the Watts Section of Los Angeles

Aug. 18, 1963 | James Meredith Graduates From Mississippi

Sept. 15, 1963 | Birmingham Church Is Bombed by Klansmen

Oct. 14, 1964 | Martin Luther King Awarded Nobel Peace Prize

Oct. 18, 1968 | American Olympic Medal Winners Suspended for Black Power Salutes

Nov. 4, 2008 | Obama Is Elected President

Throwback Thursday | The Rodney King Verdict and the L.A. Riots

Throwback Thursday | Rosa Parks Refuses to Move to the Back of the Bus

These projects explore Black history in depth and from a variety of angles — connecting history to the present.

Progress, Revisited

Selected pieces from a new series from Headway that explores how measures of Black achievement in the U.S. have stalled or reversed, and looks back at historical gains for their lessons today.

The Elusive Quest for Black Progress

How the Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike Changed the Labor Movement

How Greenwood Grew a Thriving Black Economy

Three Days That Changed the Thinking About Black Women’s Health

Sentenced to Life as Boys, They Made Their Case for Release

Black History, Continued

Selected pieces from Black History, Continued and our related curriculum. The 2021 series explores pivotal moments and transformative figures in Black culture and examines how the past shapes the present and the future.

Our Curriculum

Learning With the ‘Black History, Continued’ Series

On-Demand Webinar: Teaching With ‘Black History, Continued’

Writing Prompt: How Much Have You Learned About Black History?

Lesson of the Day: ‘When Blackness Is a Superpower’

Lesson of the Day: ‘The Black Woman Artist Who Crafted a Life She Was Told She Couldn’t Have’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Bringing Black History to Life in the Great Outdoors’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Black Surfers Reclaim Their Place on the Waves’

Lesson of the Day: ‘What Is Black Love Today?’

Teaching About the Tulsa Race Massacre With The New York Times

Additional Pieces

A Record Number of Black Women Run Some of the Biggest U.S. Cities

How Black Foragers Find Freedom in the Natural World

Why Students Are Choosing H.B.C.U.s: ‘4 Years Being Seen as Family’

The Joy of Black Hair

The Black Nerds Redefining the Culture

How Can Blackness Construct America?

Do We Ask Too Much of Black Heroes?

The Essential Toni Morrison

The 1619 Project

Selected pieces from The 1619 Project , an ongoing initiative from The New York Times Magazine that began in August 2019, the 400th anniversary of the beginning of American slavery. It aims to reframe the country’s history by placing the consequences of slavery and the contributions of Black Americans at the very center of our national narrative.

Essays From The New York Times Magazine

Why We Published the 1619 Project , by Jake Silverstein

The Idea of America , by Nikole Hannah-Jones

Capitalism , by Matthew Desmond

A Broken Health Care System , by Jeneen Interlandi

Traffic , by Kevin M. Kruse

Undemocratic Democracy , by Jamelle Bouie

Medical Inequality , by Linda Villarosa

American Popular Music , by Wesley Morris

Sugar , by Khalil Gibran Muhammad

Mass Incarceration , by Bryan Stevenson

The Wealth Gap , by Trymaine Lee

Hope, a Photo Essay , by Djeneba Aduayom

400 Years: A Literary Timeline

Why Can’t We Teach This? by Nikita Stewart

A Brief History of Slavery , by Mary Elliott and Jazmine Hughes

The 1619 Podcast

Related Pieces

How the 1619 Project Came Together

Is Slavery’s Legacy in the Power Dynamics of Sports?

Stories From Slavery, Shared Over Generations

We Respond to the Historians Who Critiqued The 1619 Project

The 1619 Project Curriculum (Pulitzer Center)

“The 1619 Project” docuseries on Hulu

Recent articles, essays, photos, obituaries, photos and graphics on Black history and contemporary culture.

Articles on Culture, Sports, Science and the Arts

How Hip-Hop Changed the English Language Forever

How Hip-Hop Conquered the World

A Silvery, Shimmering Summer of Beyoncé

The Great Experiment That Is ‘The Color Purple’

Norman Lear Reshaped How America Saw Black Families

The First 10 Words of the African American English Dictionary Are In

The Blind Side of Sports Storytelling

A Negro Leagues Star Is Still Sharing His Story

Michael Jordan Was an Activist After All

How ‘Weathering’ Contributes to Racial Health Disparities

The Toll of Police Violence on Black People’s Mental Health

Black Artists Say A.I. Shows Bias, With Algorithms Erasing Their History

How Unconscious Bias in Health Care Puts Pregnant Black Women at Higher Risk

Two Chefs on Keeping Alive, and Redefining, Soul Food

Black Spirituals as Poetry and Resistance

The African-American Art Shaping the 21st Century

Why We’re Capitalizing Black

Seven Black Inventors Whose Patents Helped Shape American Life

The Most Important Decade for Movies About Black Lives

Why Won’t Blackface Go Away? It’s Part of America’s Troubled Cultural Legacy

28 Days, 28 Films for Black History Month

Love and Black Lives, in Pictures Found on a Brooklyn Street

The National Museum Of African-American History And Culture: I, Too, Sing America

Edna Lewis and the Black Roots of American Cooking

Articles on History, Politics, Education and Business

Inside the College Board’s Revised African American Studies Curriculum

One Black Family, One Affirmative Action Ruling, and Lots of Thoughts

Florida Scoured Math Textbooks for ‘Prohibited Topics.’ Next Up: Social Studies.

Hate Crimes Reported in Schools Nearly Doubled Between 2018 and 2022

8 Places Across the U.S. That Illuminate Black History

‘I Have a Dream,’ Yesterday and Today

The Home of Carter G. Woodson, the Man Behind Black History Month

America’s Black Cemeteries and Three Women Trying to Save Them

A New Front in Reparations: Seeking the Return of Lost Family Land

How the Voting Rights Act, Newly Challenged, Has Long Been Under Attack

‘The Justins’ Follow a Legacy of Resistance in Tennessee

Juneteenth: The History of a Holiday

Teachers Tackle Black History Month, Under New Restrictions

Revitalizing Black Neighborhoods by Preserving Their History

Hidden in Plain Sight: The Ghosts of Segregation

Welcome to Homecoming!

Meet the Brave but Overlooked Women of Color Who Fought for the Vote

What Is Owed

Lock-Ins and Walkouts: The Students Changing City Schools From the Inside

Emmett Till’s Murder, and How America Remembers Its Darkest Moments

1.5 Million Missing Black Men

Found: Rosa Parks’s Arrest Warrant, and More Traces of Civil Rights History

President Obama’s Farewell Address: Full Video and Text

New Databases Offer Insights Into the Lives of Escaped Slaves

Opinion Essays

Yes, Kwanzaa Is Made Up. That’s Why It’s Great

Who’s Afraid of Black History?

How Does Diversity Actually Work at College? We Asked 10 Young Black Americans.

How the Underground Railroad Got Its Name

The Forgotten Radicalism of the March on Washington

Martin Luther King Jr. Wasn’t a Lone Messiah

Why We Have to Reckon With the Real Malcolm X

Genuine Progress Is the Ability to Be Black and Stumble

Tyre Nichols’s Death Is America’s Shame

My Hair Was Always a Source of Tension Between My Mother and Me. Then We Met Charlotte.

Rodeo Is Turning America’s Whitest Big City Black

What Canceling Student Debt Would Do for the Racial Wealth Gap

The True Meaning of Juneteenth

Black History Month Is About Seeing America Clearly

When Everyone Around You Is Talking About the End, Talk About Black History

Black Valedictorians and the Toxic Trope of Black Exceptionalism

The Real Rosa Parks Story Is Better Than the Fairy Tale

We Need a Second Great Migration

Racism’s Hidden Toll

A ‘Glorious Poetic Rage’

This Black History Month’s Lesson: Joy

It Was Never About Busing

Brent Staples’s Pulitzer Prize-Winning Work at The Times

I’m Not Here to Answer Your Black History Month Questions

The ‘Lost Cause’ That Built Jim Crow

Ta-Nehisi Coates: The Cancellation of Colin Kaepernick

The Cultural Canon Is Better Than Ever

Who First Showed Us That Black Lives Matter?

How Black America Saw Obama

The Authentic Power of Michelle Obama

Henry Louis Gates Jr.: Restoring Black History

How to Stay Sane While Black

Remember Langston Hughes’s Anger Alongside His Joy

Selected Obituaries

Remarkable Black Men and Women We Overlooked

For Martin Luther King’s Birthday, Black Leaders as Obituaries Portrayed Them

Recent Notable Deaths

Harry Belafonte

Tina Turner

Chadwick Boseman

C.T. Vivian

Kobe Bryant

Toni Morrison

Scenes From Juneteenth: America’s Newest Holiday, 156 Years in the Making

Heirlooms, Redefined

How Black Lives Matter Reached Every Corner of America

From The Times’s Photo Vault, the Many Dimensions of Jackie Robinson

50 Years After Their Mug Shots, Portraits of Mississippi’s Freedom Riders

Loving, 50 Years Later

African-American History Seen Through an African-American Lens

A Look at the Heart-Wrenching Moments From Equal Rights Battles

Using Photography to Tell Stories About Race

The World According to Black Women Photographers

An Elegant, Lyrical Look at Black Lives by Black Photographers

The Lasting Power of Emmett Till’s Image

From Slavery to Freedom: Revealing the Underground Railroad

Understanding Race and History Through Photography

A Last Look at Ebony’s Archives, Before They’re Sold

Unpublished Black History

Unpublished: Sports and Black History

Times Photographs of the Civil Rights Era

Our site has been publishing lesson plans and student resources since 1998. Those chosen for this collection are from 2014 or later. See our Race, Racism and Racial Justice Resources spotlight for more.

Some Recent Lesson Plans

Lessons based on Times articles that explore Black history and culture

Lesson Plan: ‘Octavia Butler’s Science Fiction Predicted the World We Live In’

8 Ways to Teach and Learn About Hip-Hop

Lesson Plan: ‘An American Puzzle: Fitting Race in a Box’

Lesson Plan: The End of Race-Based Affirmative Action in College Admissions

A Teacher-Created Unit on Race and Racism Using The New York Times

Lesson Plan: The Debate Over the Teaching of U.S. History

Lesson of the Day: ‘A Call to Remember the 200,000 Black Troops Who Helped Save the Union’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Tour a House Full of Black History’

Lesson of the Day: ‘How a National Movement Toppled Hundreds of Confederate Symbols’

Lesson of the Day: ‘A Civil Rights Pioneer Seeks to Have Her Record Cleared’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Critical Race Theory: A Brief History’

Five Ways to Learn About Juneteenth With The New York Times

Lesson of the Day: ‘Four Studies of Black Healing’

Lesson of the Day: ‘As New Police Reform Laws Sweep Across the U.S., Some Ask: Are They Enough?’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Two Biden Priorities, Climate and Inequality, Meet on Black-Owned Farms’

Lesson of the Day: ‘A Teenager Was Bullied. His Ancestors Saved Him.’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Dr. Seuss Books Are Pulled, and a “Cancel Culture” Controversy Erupts’

Resources for Teaching About Race and Racism With The New York Times and an on-demand webinar

Lesson of the Day: ‘What Students Are Saying About Race and Racism in America’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Black, Deaf and Extremely Online’

Lesson of the Day: Amanda Gorman and ‘The Hill We Climb’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Listen Up: These Young Black Poets Have a Message’

Lesson of the Day: ‘How Black Lives Matter Reached Every Corner of America’

Teaching Ideas and Resources to Help Students Make Sense of the George Floyd Protests

Learning About Slavery With Primary Sources

Lesson of the Day: ‘Two States. Eight Textbooks. Two American Stories.’

Lesson of the Day: ‘Can Biology Class Reduce Racism?’

Still Separate, Still Unequal: Teaching about School Segregation and Educational Inequality

‘Her Subject Is America’: Teaching Toni Morrison With The New York Times

Moving On Up: Teaching With the Data of Economic Mobility

25 Mini-Films for Exploring Race, Bias and Identity With Students

First Encounters With Race and Racism: Teaching Ideas for Classroom Conversations

Equality Under the Law? Investigating Race and the Justice System

Teaching and Learning About Martin Luther King Jr. With The New York Times

Front Page History: Teaching About Selma Using Original Times Reporting

Reader Idea | Reading Langston Hughes and Charles Blow With Youth in Detention

Reader Idea | A Mural Project Inspired by New York Times Columns on Race

Guest Post | Ideas for Student Civic Action in a Time of Social Uncertainty

Text to Text Series

An often-taught text paired with a Times article that echoes, extends or challenges its themes or ideas

Text to Text | ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ and ‘Discrimination in Housing Against Nonwhites Persists Quietly’

Text to Text | Colin Kaepernick’s National Anthem Protest and Frederick Douglass’s ‘What to the Slave is the 4th of July?’

Text to Text | ‘Why Reconstruction Matters’ and ‘Black Reconstruction in America’

Text to Text | ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ and ‘History of Lynchings in the South Documents Nearly 4,000 Names’

Text to Text | ‘What Would Malcolm X Think?’ and ‘After the Bombing’

Text to Text | ‘The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks’ and ‘The Sequel’

Text to Text | ‘Little Things Are Big’ and ‘Students See Many Slights as Racial ‘Microaggressions’ ’

Text to Text | ‘I Have a Dream’ and ‘The Lasting Power of Dr. King’s Dream Speech’

Writing Prompts

A selection of Student Opinion questions and Picture Prompts based on Times articles and images

How Should Schools Respond to Racist Jokes?

What Is Your Reaction to the End of Race-Based Affirmative Action in College Admissions?

What Do You Think About the Controversy Surrounding the New A.P. Course on African American Studies?

The Death of Tyre Nichols: A Place for Teenagers to Respond

What Has Serena Williams Meant to Tennis, the Sports World and You?

What Is the Purpose of Teaching U.S. History?

What Does Judge Jackson’s Supreme Court Confirmation Mean to You?

What Can History Teach Us About Resilience?

Do You Support Affirmative Action in College Admissions?

Does the N.F.L. Have a Race Problem?

How Much Have You Learned About Black History?

How Diverse Is Your School?

What Is Your Reaction to Efforts to Limit Teaching on Race in Schools?

How Much Have You and Your Community Changed Since George Floyd’s Death?

Should White Writers Translate a Black Author’s Work?

Should Athletes Speak Out On Social and Political Issues?

Should We Rename Schools Named for Historical Figures With Ties to Racism, Sexism or Slavery?

How Should Racial Slurs in Literature Be Handled in the Classroom?

How Have You Learned About Slavery?

How Much Racism Do You Face in Your Daily Life?

Do You See Yourself in the Books You Read?

Does the United States Owe Reparations to the Descendants of Enslaved People?

Is Racial and Economic Diversity in Schools Important?

Is Fear of ‘The Other’ Poisoning Public Life?

Should All Americans Receive Anti-Bias Education?

How Much Power Do Books Have to Teach Young People Tolerance of Others?

What Does Dr. King’s Legacy Mean to You?

Why Is Race So Hard to Talk About?

Should Confederate Statues Be Removed or Remain in Place?

Do You Ever Talk About Issues of Race and Class With Your Friends?

Who Does Hip-Hop Belong To?

Picture Prompt | Lizzo and James Madison’s Crystal Flute

Picture Prompt| ‘You Need to Try Harder’

Picture Prompt | Confronting Stereotypes

Picture Prompt | Reading and Diversity

Film Club Films

Short documentary films with related discussion questions

Why Rappers Stopped Writing: The Punch-In Method

Fifty years into hip-hop’s constant evolution, many of today’s rappers don’t write down their lyrics at all. Here’s how they make songs now.

“I think a lot of people picture, like, modern rappers who really just, like, pen and paper in the studio, writing down their raps, figuring it out, scratching it out, changing it.” “Yeah, no, we stopped writing a long time ago. Not many people write.” “Back in the day, when people were just using tape, you just had one take. So everybody had to be on point.” “There used to be a time before the 24 track, for instance. If a singer went in, you had to sing that [expletive], top to bottom, baby. You had to have it figured out.” “Most music up until about 20 years ago was always recorded on tape. It’s more of a process. It’s a lot more laborious, a little bit more tedious.” Rapping: “Three strikes and we might just blast —” “I’ve watched Tupac giving a speech — ‘Hey, we have two hours of studio time. Come here prepared.’” “We don’t have time or the luxury to spend all of this time doing one song. We don’t have it.” “Fast forward a little bit. Word starts to spread mid-to-late 90s that Jay doesn’t actually write any of his rhymes down.” “So you literally come in the studio and then formulate sentences in your head?” “Yeah.” “And then spit it to that beat?” “Yeah.” “And you never write down the lyrics?” “Never.” “Which leads to other rappers wanting to do the same thing.” “I found out that Jay wasn’t writing. I didn’t want to ever see a pen or paper, again, in my life.” “He has class, first in the lunch line. My lunch ticket let me eat rappers at lunch time.” “What I know is, when you see your hero can jump seven feet, it makes you want to jump eight.” “If it depends on me, 10 out of 10.” “You’re telling me, you’re falling out of love with me.” “I came up at the trenches.” “The problem is that not all of them are as great or as capable of doing it.” “Yeah, turn me up in my ear.” [rapping] “That’s no pen, no pad. They’re just going in and punching in.” “Punch in.” “Punch method.” “Punch and recording.” “Punching three more bars.” “I ain’t never wrote raps. I just be rapping.” “Do you write, or do you punch in?” “I punch in. I don’t write.” “Today, ProTools is essentially, like, the pen and paper, and that’s where it becomes this different type of art form.” “It’s improvisational versus writing the stand-up piece. You know what I mean?” “It’s like freehand versus tracing.” “Oh OK.” “Keep that part for me, just punch me in.” “The artist might not really have the song written, but they’re not necessarily freestyling in the traditional sense, where they’re just going in and saying the first thing that comes to mind, and they’re doing that for four minutes straight.” “Punching in, like saying one bar at a time.” “I’ve got these racks that can’t fold in the wallet. I’m making deposits. “Definitely one line at a time.” “That bar, and you said the bar out there, and you play it all together. It sounds like a whole sentence. “They’re using punching in as a way to create their rhymes as opposed to a way to correct their rhymes. Yeah, I feel it’s really just a generational thing.” “But you don’t think you could end up with something better if you sometimes wrote some stuff?” “No.” “It’s just not for you?” “No, [expletive] that.” “Rap has grown. Rap has evolved, and there’s always good and bad when it comes to evolution. What we’re seeing is a lot of the same lane being explored over and over again.” “People think, oh, they just rap about this, or they’re just rapping about, like, the easy rhyme scheme or the easy — but to be in a studio and write five songs a day, seven days a week about new topics and make it sound different, it’s very, very impressive.” “It is a sport. It is a sport to it.” “Instead of one song for a week, it’s five songs a night, and you keep it pushing.” “Not that our artistry isn’t appreciated, but it’s more so like, all right, how fast are we getting this done?” “And I’m just saying that the unprofessional rap culture is what I’m a kid of. Guys were like, I’m just a street cat, and I’ll rap.” [rapping] “I jumped off the porch and bought me a gun.” “I just want people to know that, like, you’re not Jay-Z, you’re not a failure.” “It’s about you, whether you’re writing on a phone, a piece of paper, punching in, off the dome. It doesn’t matter.” “Rapping to me, coming from, like, how I feel right then and there. Like me writing down ain’t going to be the same energy of me saying it.” “You can’t really hold your technique over a younger generation’s head, right? Ultimately, it is about just getting the best end result.” [rapping] “I respect it all because it all takes work, and it all takes thought. Whether you’re sitting over a pad or you got to spend four hours figuring it out, piecing it together, punching in, if the end, result moves people emotionally, the art is worth it.”

How a Rare Portrait of an Enslaved Child Arrived at the Met

What’s Tea?

Trayvon Martin Is Still Making America Confront Its Original Sin

Almost Famous: The Queen of Basketball

Long Island’s Enduring Black Beachfront Community

Inside the Battle Over George Floyd Square

What It Means to Be Black in America

My Father, Martin Luther King Jr., Had Another Dream

A Concerto Is a Conversation

‘Baptized in Blackness’: Why Homecoming Is Vital to the Black College Experience

Why I Won’t Teach My Son ‘Black Codes’

Almost Famous: The Lost Astronaut

Traveling While Black

How Dr. King Changed a Sanitation Worker’s Life

Taking a Knee and Taking Down A Monument

Crossing Cultures: Black K-Pop Fans in America

A Conversation With My Black Son

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Black history month essay topics.

Black history, or African-American history, is full of fascinating stories, rich culture, great art, and courageous acts that were undertaken within circumstances that we can hardly imagine in modern society. While Civil Rights events are the most common themes in our studies, we should resist equating African-American history only with Civil Rights-era history. There is so much more to explore! This list contains 50 prompts that might lead you into some interesting and little-known information about African-American history.

Note: Your first challenge in studying some of the topics below is finding resources. When conducting an Internet search, be sure to place quotation marks around your search term (try different variations) to narrow your results.

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American Civil War Facts

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 Fascinating African American History Topics to Write about

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Black History Month Writing Prompts for Elementary: Honor Historical Figures

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

1. Untold Heroes

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Black History Month is a time to celebrate and honor the achievements of African Americans throughout history. It provides a wonderful opportunity for elementary students to learn about influential individuals and events that have shaped our world. To help ignite their creativity and explore the rich tapestry of black history, here are some inspiring writing prompts:

Imagine you have the power to travel back in time and interview a hidden hero of black history. Who would you choose? Write a newspaper article detailing your fascinating interview with this unsung hero. What questions would you ask? What astounding achievements or struggles would you uncover?

Jazz music has been a vital part of African American culture. Choose a jazz legend such as Louis Armstrong or Ella Fitzgerald and write a short story or poem inspired by their music. Explore the emotions their melodies evoke and let your imagination sway to the rhythm of their tunes.

Research important figures who fought against racial prejudice and discrimination, like Rosa Parks or Martin Luther King Jr. Imagine yourself in their shoes and write a diary entry describing a day when you stood up against injustice. How did you find the courage to defy societal norms? Reflect on the impact of your actions.

Many black inventors and scientists have contributed groundbreaking inventions and discoveries. Choose one such innovator, like George Washington Carver or Katherine Johnson, and write a persuasive essay convincing others of the immense impact their work has had on society. Include specific examples and the lasting influence of their contributions.

The Great Migration was a significant movement of African Americans from rural areas to cities, seeking better opportunities and escaping racial discrimination. Put yourself in the shoes of a child during this era and write a fictional letter to a friend describing your experience. Detail the challenges faced, the dreams hoped for, and the importance of resilience during this transformative time.

By engaging in these writing prompts, elementary students will develop a deeper understanding of the struggles, triumphs, and contributions of African Americans. They will explore important aspects of black history while honing their creative writing skills. Let their pens dance across the paper as they discover the power and beauty of black history!

Exploring the Contributions of African American Pioneers Through Writing

Delving into the rich history of African American literature allows us to uncover the remarkable contributions made by pioneers of the written word within this community. Their powerful narratives, thought-provoking poetry , and insightful essays have played a pivotal role in shaping American literature and society as a whole. Through their writings, African American pioneers have defied stereotypes, shed light on the harsh realities of racial discrimination, and championed the pursuit of equality and justice.

From the early works penned during the era of slavery to the literary achievements of the Harlem Renaissance and beyond, African American writers have paved the way for future generations, leaving an indelible mark on the literary landscape. Their influential voices have challenged societal norms, provided a platform for self-expression, and propelled important conversations surrounding race, identity, and cultural heritage. Through their versatile storytelling, these visionaries have showcased the resilience, strength, and diversity of the African American experience.

• Phillis Wheatley – The first published African American poet whose work defiantly challenged the prejudices of the time.
• Frederick Douglass – Renowned abolitionist and author who vividly documented his experiences as a former slave, giving a face and voice to the hardships endured by African Americans.
• Zora Neale Hurston – Celebrated novelist, anthropologist, and folklorist known for her captivating storytelling that centered African American culture and vernacular.
• Langston Hughes – A prolific poet and leader of the Harlem Renaissance, his evocative verses captured the joys, sorrows, and complexities of African American life.

These are just a few examples among many whose literary contributions have shaped the landscape of African American literature. Exploring the words and works of these pioneers not only provides insight into their unique experiences but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diverse tapestry of American literature as a whole.

Black History Month is a celebration of the rich and vibrant history of African Americans, their contributions, and accomplishments throughout the centuries. It is a time to recognize the resilience, creativity, and critical thinking of individuals who have played an integral role in shaping our society. To encourage reflection and inspire creativity, we have curated a list of thought-provoking writing prompts that delve into different aspects of Black history.

1. Unsung Heroes: Explore the lives of lesser-known figures who made significant contributions to Black history. Write a story or a poem that highlights their accomplishments and the impact they had on their communities.

2. Overcoming Adversity: Think about individuals who faced tremendous challenges and emerged victorious. Write an essay or a journal entry discussing their journey, and reflect on the qualities that enabled them to overcome obstacles.

3. Art as Political Expression: Many artists have used their craft to express their thoughts on social and political issues. Choose a piece of artwork, be it a painting, song, or poem, that represents the Black experience during a particular era. Analyze its messages and symbolism and write a critique detailing its relevance to that period in history.

4. Preserving Oral Traditions: African American culture has a rich tradition of storytelling. Imagine yourself as a griot, entrusted with passing down stories from generation to generation. Write a short narrative or create a dialogue that embodies the value and importance of preserving these oral traditions.

These writing prompts are designed to foster an appreciation for Black history and stimulate critical thinking and creativity. Use them as a starting point to explore untold stories, shed light on remarkable individuals, and delve into the diverse experiences that have shaped our society. Happy writing during this inspiring month!

As we honor African American heroes who have made significant contributions to our society, it is important to encourage our elementary students to learn about and appreciate their achievements. By engaging in thoughtful writing activities, children can develop a deeper understanding of the immense impact these inspiring individuals have had on our world. Here are some creative writing prompts that will empower your elementary students to celebrate African American heroes:

• Imagine you are Rosa Parks and write a diary entry describing the day you refused to give up your bus seat. How did this act of defiance change history?
• Write a letter to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. explaining why his “I Have a Dream” speech continues to inspire people today. What is the significance of his words for you?
• Choose one African American musician or artist who has influenced society and write a biography about their life and accomplishments. Include details about their struggles, successes, and lasting impact on their field.

These prompts provide a starting point for young minds to explore the triumphs and hardships of African American heroes. Encourage your students to research, reflect, and think critically while writing. Let them express their emotions, opinions, and admiration for these remarkable individuals who have shaped history. By celebrating their achievements, we empower the next generation to strive for greatness and stand up for equality.

Black History Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the countless contributions of black individuals throughout history. Engaging students in reflective and thought-provoking writing prompts can be a powerful way to deepen their understanding and appreciation for these historical figures. Here are some unique and inspiring writing prompts that will encourage students to explore the lives and legacies of famous black leaders, activists, and artists:

• Reflect on the impact: Choose a historical figure whose contributions resonate with you and write a personal reflection on why you believe their work was significant. How have their actions shaped society and influenced your own perspective on social justice?
• Imaginary conversation: Imagine you have the opportunity to have a conversation with one of the pioneers of the Civil Rights Movement, such as Rosa Parks or Martin Luther King Jr. Write a dialogue between you and the historical figure, discussing their experiences, motivations, and the challenges they faced.
• Create a metaphor: Think about the life of a black historical figure and create a metaphor that encompasses their journey and accomplishments. Explain why you chose this metaphor and how it represents the resilience, strength, or impact of their life’s work.

With these engaging writing prompts, students have the opportunity to delve deep into the lives and achievements of black historical figures. Encourage them to think critically, express their thoughts freely, and gain a deeper appreciation for the struggles and triumphs of these remarkable individuals.

Black History Month is a time to honor and celebrate the remarkable contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout history. It serves as a reminder to reflect on the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of individuals who have faced adversity with unwavering determination. To encourage young learners to explore these inspiring narratives, we have curated a series of engaging writing prompts that will allow them to delve into the lives of influential figures and gain a deeper understanding of their stories. Let their imaginations soar as they step into the shoes of these extraordinary icons and discover the true power of resilience!

1. Overcoming Obstacles: Imagine you are Rosa Parks, the brave activist who refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus. Write a journal entry describing the emotions you felt and the challenges you overcame during this historic moment. How did your act of defiance inspire change?

2. Trailblazing Talents: Pick an African American innovator whose contributions have made a profound impact. Write a short biography highlighting their achievements and the barriers they broke through to achieve success. How did their resilience help shape the world we live in today?

3. Empowering Dreams: Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “I have a dream.” What is your dream for a more inclusive and equal world? Write a persuasive essay explaining your vision and the steps you believe should be taken to turn it into a reality. Highlight the importance of resilience in overcoming challenges along the way.

These writing prompts are just a glimpse into the vast tapestry of stories awaiting discovery. Black History Month is an opportunity to honor the past, present, and future achievements of African Americans while fostering empathy, understanding, and a desire to create positive change. We invite young learners to engage with these prompts, embrace the resilience of these remarkable individuals, and carry their lessons forward in their own lives.

Q: What are some Black History Month writing prompts for elementary students to honor historical figures? A: Black History Month provides a fantastic opportunity for elementary students to learn about and celebrate the contributions of African Americans throughout history. Here, we have compiled a list of engaging writing prompts that can help students explore the lives and achievements of influential historical figures.

Q: Why is it important for elementary students to learn about Black history? A: Teaching Black history to elementary students is of utmost importance as it promotes inclusivity, diversity, and a broader understanding of the contributions made by African Americans. By learning about historical figures and their struggles, students develop a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and empathy towards others.

Q: What are some prompts that can inspire students to write about historical figures during Black History Month? A: There are endless possibilities when it comes to writing prompts for honoring historical figures during Black History Month. Here are a few ideas to get students started:

1. Write a letter to Rosa Parks, thanking her for her courageous act of defiance on the Montgomery bus in 1955. 2. Imagine you are Harriet Tubman, and write a journal entry about a daring escape on the Underground Railroad. 3. Create an interview with Martin Luther King Jr., discussing his dream for equality and his impact on the Civil Rights Movement. 4. Write a short biography about George Washington Carver and explain his groundbreaking discoveries in agriculture and science. 5. Pretend you are Ruby Bridges, and describe your first day at the desegregated William Frantz Elementary School.

Q: How can teachers integrate these writing prompts into their Black History Month curriculum? A: Teachers can introduce these writing prompts as part of their Black History Month curriculum by incorporating them into daily or weekly writing assignments. They can provide students with background information on each historical figure and encourage them to conduct further research to enhance their understanding. Additionally, teachers can create engaging activities such as group discussions, presentations, or even dramatic readings of the written pieces.

Q: What are some benefits of using writing prompts to honor historical figures during Black History Month? A: Writing prompts offer numerous benefits for students during Black History Month. They encourage critical thinking, enhance creativity and imagination, and allow students to empathize with historical figures. Writing about significant events and influential people fosters a sense of understanding, respect, and admiration for the struggles and achievements of African Americans throughout history.

Q: Are there any resources available to assist teachers in implementing these writing prompts? A: Absolutely! Various websites, educational platforms, and libraries offer resources focusing on Black History Month writing prompts for elementary students. Teachers can find books, articles, and online materials that provide background information on historical figures and offer guidance on incorporating writing prompts into the curriculum. It’s important to explore these resources to further enrich students’ learning experiences.

Q: How can parents get involved in encouraging their child’s participation in Black History Month writing prompts? A: Parents can play a significant role in supporting their child’s engagement with Black History Month writing prompts. They can start by discussing historical figures and events at home, reading books or watching documentaries together. Parents can also encourage their child to write beyond their school assignments by providing additional prompts or assisting them with research. By creating a supportive and encouraging environment, parents can foster their child’s appreciation for Black history and inspire them to continue learning beyond the classroom.

In conclusion, using Black History Month writing prompts in elementary schools allows us to honor and celebrate the contributions of important historical figures, fostering appreciation and understanding of African American history among young students.

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Black History

Civil Rights Movement Timeline

The civil rights movement was an organized effort by black Americans to end racial discrimination and gain equal rights under the law. It began in the late 1940s and ended in the late 1960s.

Rosa Parks (1913—2005) helped initiate the civil rights movement in the United States when she refused to give up her seat to a white man on a Montgomery, Alabama bus in 1955. Her actions inspired the leaders of the local Black community to organize the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

Black History Month

February is dedicated as Black History Month, honoring the triumphs and struggles of African Americans throughout U.S. history.

Black History Milestones: Timeline

Black history in the United States is a rich and varied chronicle of slavery and liberty, oppression and progress, segregation and achievement.

Coretta Scott King

After her husband became pastor, Coretta Scott King joined the choir at the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church. Hear two of her friends and members of the congregation remember Mrs. King’s legacy and her voice.

When Segregationists Bombed Martin Luther King Jr.’s House

On January 30, 1956, Martin Luther King Jr.’s house was bombed by segregationists in retaliation for the success of the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

Brown v. Board of Education

In 1954, the Supreme Court unanimously strikes down segregation in public schools, sparking the Civil Rights movement.

How the Montgomery Bus Boycott Accelerated the Civil Rights Movement

For 382 days, almost the entire African-American population of Montgomery, Alabama, including leaders Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks, refused to ride on segregated buses, a turning point in the American civil rights movement.

The Black Explorer Who May Have Reached the North Pole First

In 1909 African American Matthew Henson trekked with explorer Robert Peary, reaching what they claimed was the North Pole. Who got there first?

How Madam C.J. Walker Became a Self-Made Millionaire

Despite Jim Crow oppression, Walker founded her own haircare company that helped thousands of African American women gain financial independence.

8 Black Inventors Who Made Daily Life Easier

Black innovators changed the way we live through their many innovations, from the traffic light to the ironing board.

Harlem Renaissance: Photos From the African American Cultural Explosion

From jazz and blues to poetry and prose to dance and theater, the Harlem Renaissance of the early 20th century was electric with creative expression by African American artists.

This Day in History

Martha Jones becomes first Black woman to receive a U.S. patent

Martin luther king jr. writes “letter from a birmingham jail”, misty copeland becomes american ballet theater’s first black principal dancer, mae jemison becomes first black woman in space, harlem riot of 1935, rebecca lee crumpler becomes first black woman to earn a medical degree.

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Writing Prompt Worksheets for Black History Month

It’s February, and we have a brand new set of Black History Month writing worksheets just for the occasion. If you have already taught your students about Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., and Harriet Tubman, there are also some prompts to discuss what they have learned. To go beyond these three iconic people in history, please check out our  Black History Month For Kids – 6 Amazing African American Trailblazers lesson plan .

Black History Month was officially started in 1970 to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history,” as stated by Gerald Ford 6 years later in 1976. While many of our writing prompts are funny or goofy, these prompts give your students the opportunity to really examine race and racism in society, both historically and as it still exists today. This will help put these amazing achievements by black people in context, as students can understand the challenges they faced while making such a positive impact on society.

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4 Writing Activities for Celebrating Black History

Inspire your students to explore black history and culture through writing. Present any of these engaging writing prompts in your middle school or high school classroom during Black History Month or beyond. Each activity requires students to inquire about the people, places, events, and issues that have shaped African-American history.

Writing a Historical Dialogue

Ask your students to imagine what a conversation would be like between them and a significant African-American contributor to social studies, science, math, or English. What would they ask? What would they want to know?

Present them with the following lists of famous figures and encourage them to choose a person they don't know much about. Then have them research the figure and create a dialogue (written conversation) between themselves and the person. The dialogue should discuss important experiences in the person’s life and work.

Use this minilesson to help your students create a historical dialogue.

• Writing an Arts & Performance Review

Discuss the significance of the Harlem Renaissance, an era in the 1920s and 30s that is considered a golden age for African-American art, music, dance, and literature. Show this video to give a brief overview of the period.

Then ask your students to pretend that they are entertainment critics in New York City during this era. Explain that their editor (you) has assigned them to write a review of a special piece of art from the period. Have them choose between the following options, or allow them to seek other art and entertainment from the period:

• Song: “It Don’t Mean a Thing” by Duke Ellington
• Song: “Nobody Knows When You’re Down and Out” by Bessie Smith
• Painting: Jeunesse by Palmer Hayden
• Poem: “I, Too, Sing America” by Langston Hughes
• Dance: The Lindy Hop

Have students complete background research on the artist, writer, musician, or performance they chose. Then assign a written review in which students do the following tasks:

• Give their opinions of the art or performance.
• Give examples from the art or performance to support their views.
• Use specific details to describe something special about the sights, sounds, colors, or words.
• Provide background information about the artist, writer, performer, or genre.
• Describe how the piece fits within the larger culture of the Harlem Renaissance.

Use this minilesson to help your students write an arts and performance review.

Writing a List Poem

Help your students create list poems, which playfully explore a topic by listing people, places, things, or ideas. Often the title says what the list is about. Advise students that list poems do not necessarily need to include rhythm or rhyme, but each word should be carefully chosen and memorable.

Present the example below. Then ask students to write their own list poems based on the same title, or allow them to choose different topics related to Black History Month.

Black History Is

Frederick at a lectern

Harriet along a railroad

Rosa aboard a bus

Martin amid a march

Thurgood inside a courtroom

Nine outside a schoolhouse

Jackie at the ball diamond

Mae beyond the Earth

Barack atop the polls

Use this minilesson to help your students write a list poem.

Debating the Issues

Many of the writers, artists, and political figures that drove African-American history did so by crafting powerful arguments. Inspire your students to build their own arguments about key issues by presenting them with the following debatable statements.

• African-Americans’ fight for social justice ended after the Civil Rights Movement.
• The Academy Awards need to do a better job of recognizing African-Americans’ contributions in cinema.
• Black History Month isn’t needed because black history is American history.
• Black culture is becoming more distinct as history moves forward.

Ask students to pick a statement that they have strong feelings about. Do they agree or disagree? Have students research their topics to create argumentative essays that either support or counter the statements they've chosen. Introduce them to the 7 C’s for Building an Argument to help them develop their essays. Emphasize that students should consider both sides of the issue and support their own stance in a respectful manner.

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• 110.22.b.10
• 110.22.b.11.C
• LAFS.6.W.1.1
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• 110.39.c.5.D
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Best 120 African American Essay Topics For A Brilliant Academic Paper

Crafting an essay on any topic from scratch is surely challenging. The situation is becoming even worse when it comes to creating papers on African American topics since this area is considered to be one of the most controversial for dozens of years. Fortunately, having a list of African American history research paper topics at hand will surely make your job much easier. Moreover, we’ve collected some basic hints on how to craft a paper on this type of topic in a fast and effective way.

Top Prompts On How To Compose An Astonishing Paper

Many learners are often feeling totally lost with an incredible number of requirements for their academic papers. However, keeping in mind these simple tips will help you create a well-structured essay at railway speed.

• Take a look at the professor’s instructions beforehand. There might be lots of African American concepts, ideas, and research topics available for your convenience.
• Choose African American research paper ideas and topics wisely. It is necessary to pick up an area you already have an idea about.
• Follow the traditional essay structure. Although you might choose a mind-blowing topic, it is still important to meet the basic requirements for the structure of your essay.
• Get only relevant information. Pick up data from only reliable sources. For example, textbooks on history or biographies.
• Put your knowledge into practice. There are tons of African American studies research topics you can choose from. However, it is better to cover the topic that is closely related to the area of your studies.
• Always check your paper for plagiarism. Even in case you are 100% sure to have a unique custom research paper , don’t forget to check its originality.

Excellent African American Essay Topics You Can Use Right Now

There is nothing new that African American history, culture, and traditions are among the most common topics for a whopping number of various academic assignments. Our experts split the themes for your convenience, so feel free to pick up the field you need and grab a topic easily.

African-American Education: The Historical Overview

When choosing African American history research paper topics, the first field you can begin with is the history of education. The development of African-American schooling, the rights of learners, as well as the conflicts between black and white students, are among the most popular topics described in college essays.

• Social Justice for African American Kids that Are Looking For Education
• All-white Colleges and Schools: Easy Ways To Eliminate The Gap
• Black Schooling: The Evolution of Rights of Learners Throughout the United States
• Historically Black Universities and Colleges
• Race and Social Mobility In The U.S.
• The Problem Of Racism At Schools in The 20th Century
• The Way African American People Got An Access To Education
• The Evolution Of African American Education During The Era Of Slavery
• The Changes In Schooling In The 19th Century
• The Challenges Of Black Learning In the Past Century
• The Way To Anti-Slavery Society and Free Rights For Education
• The Challenges Of African-free Schools
• The First Black Students In The History of The United States
• Social and Legal Restrictions On Receiving Education In The Past
• The Problem Of Academic Racism In The Country’s History
• Race and Freedom To Travel
• The Educational Problems Of African American Students
• The Conflict Between Black And White Students In The 20th Century

African Americans In Different Regions

There is nothing new that different states have various laws and rights offered to African Americans. African American research paper topics on the slavery issues in different states, black vote, and street life of black in various cities are often chosen by students for creating essays.

• African American Movement For An Access To Education in Texas
• The Detroit Rioters of 1943
• African American Movement For An Access To Education in Manhattan
• Education Reform In Chicago in 60th
• African American Movement For An Access To Education in Kansas
• The Problems Of Black Detroit
• The Problems Of Slavery In Florida
• African American Movement For An Access To Education in Mississippi
• An Education Of African Americans In New Orleans
• African American Movement For An Access To Education in North Carolina
• The Rise Of Black Leadership In Chicago
• The Black Urban Life In New York
• An Access Of African Americans to Florida’s Beaches
• The Problems Of Black Vote in Kansas
• The Development Of African American Rights
• African American Life At Bronx At The Beginning Of The 20th century
• African American and Jewish Struggles in New York City
• Black American Street Life In New York
• African American Movement For An Access To Education in Different States

African American History Research Topics On Slavery In The U.S.

The era of slavery is considered to be one of the toughest periods in the history of African Americans. Land ownership, the rights of slaves, women and child slavery, and trade relations are among the most discussable topics to write about.

• Slave Revolts In American History
• The Results Of The Most Successful Slave Revolt
• The Lives Of African Americans During The Slavery Period
• The Rights Of African Americans During The Slavery Period
• The Problem Of Children Slavery
• Taboos For African Americans During The Slavery Period
• The Education During The Era Of Black Slavery
• The Rights Of Women During The Period Of Slavery
• Economics of Slavery
• The Trade Relations During The Slavery Times
• The Role Of African Slavery In The History Of The U.S.
• The Period Of Slavery In South Carolina
• The Land Ownership During Slavery Period
• Freeing Slaves Movements
• The Slavery Laws
• The Problem Of Women Slavery
• Caribbean Slavery
• Slave Markets
• American Colonies
• The History Of Slavery
• Equal Rights Movements In The U.S.
• The Explanation Of Slavery

African American Research Topics: The Race Relations

The relations between the people of different races and nationalities have been a subject for discussions for years. Not only these topics cover the relationships between black and white but it might be also a good idea to describe the facts about African Americans and Jewish, or African Americans and Latinos.

• Latino and New York Black Relations
• Black America: The Past and The Future
• The Conflict Of Black and White In The Modern Society
• The Difference Between The Black and White Cultures
• The Impact Of African Americans and Latins On American Culture And Traditions
• The Issues Between Black, White, and Latin Students At Modern Schools and Colleges
• The Pros and Cons Of Multiracial Marriages
• The Rights Of Black And White In Different Country’s States
• The Racism Problem and Its Impact On Employment
• Bullying And Racism At Schools
• Making Friends With People Of Other Race
• Ways To Stop An Employment Discrimination
• Black-Jewish Relations
• Black Leadership
• Does Race Still Matter?
• The Black and White People In Politics
• The Conflict Of Generations Among African Americans
• The Problem Of Environmental Racism
• The Rights Of Black People
• Racial Liberalism

African American Studies Research Topics: The Culture

The culture and traditions of African Americans are incredibly diverse. African American women in culture, pop music, theater, sports, cinema, and screenwriting are not the only topics you can describe in your essay.

• Black Popular Music
• Popular African American Painters
• The Most Popular African American Singers
• African American Pop Culture
• Famous Black American Actors
• Famous Black American Actresses
• World Known African American Musicians
• Famous Black American Painters
• World Famous Black American Creators
• Black American Screenwriters
• Famous African American Theater Actors
• The Problems Of African American Theater
• World Famous Black Sportsmen
• African American Women In Sports
• Famous Black Baseball Players
• Famous Black American Football Players
• World Known African American Basketball Players
• Famous Black Swimmers
• The World Of Running: Top Black Runners
• African American Traveling
• The Jazz Age: Black Musicians
• Legends Of African Americans

Civil Rights Movement Topics

Civil War is one of the most well-known events in the history of Black Americans. The life of African American soldiers, the rights of black people before and after the war, as well as the struggles of common people are among the most burning questions discussed by historians.

• African Americans And Latino Civil Rights Movement
• African American Soldiers During The Civil War
• Civil Disobedience
• Civil Rights And Constitution
• Struggles Of The African Americans After The Civil War
• Civil Rights Act
• The Problems Of Black People After The Civil War
• The Results Of The Civil War For African Americans
• The Main Reasons For The Civil War

Important Historical Persons African Americans

There are thousands of remarkable persons, world leaders, and famous sportsmen among African Americans. These are talented African American actors, singers, musicians, theater players, and other creative people you can write about.

• Frederick Douglass
• Henrietta Lacks
• Ida B. Wells
• Martin Luther King
• Sojourner Truth
• Zora Neale Hurston
• George Floyd

How To Create Papers On African American Studies

Creating any type of academic paper requires doing advanced research, pointing out the most important facts, and come up with the results of the analysis combined with your own thoughts. The key to creating a superior essay on African American studies is to keep loyal to all the races.

Many students find it extremely difficult to bring all their findings to a perfect shape. Moreover, lots of learners require some assistance in content structuring and essay revision. In case you need writing a essay paper that meets all the requirements of the professor, you’ve come to the right place. Our experts can create a top academic paper for you from scratch and provide you with a polished and 100% original essay before the deadline.

REFERENCES:

• Books on African American studies  
• African American historical figures 
• Civil Movement Timeline 
• African American Explorers 
• Biography African Americans 
• Causes of the Civil War 
• Slavery in America: top facts

Home — Essay Samples — History — African American History — Black History Month: The Importance of Knowing African American History

Black History Month: The Importance of Knowing African American History

• Categories: African American African American History

About this sample

Words: 553 |

Updated: 1 December, 2023

Words: 553 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Works Cited:

• Aitken, R., & Dupuis, M. (2017). Risk, governance, and compliance after the global financial crisis: The implications of regulatory capitalism for the restructuring of financial services. Regulation & Governance, 11(2), 125-139.
• Campbell, A. (2014). Jordan Belfort's "The Wolf of Wall Street" and the Corruption of the American Dream. Journal of American Culture, 37(2), 252-265.
• Covell, J., & Crispin, L. (2017). Masculinity, gender and the domain of the sales organization. Gender, Work & Organization, 24(3), 274-287.
• Diamond, J. (2013). The wolf of wall street: How Hollywood infiltrated the Dow Jones. Financial Times, 1.
• Elazar, M. (2016). “Wolf of Wall Street” on trial: Pop culture in the court of law. Rutgers Journal of Law & Public Policy, 13(2), 301-331.
• Field, D. (2015). High rollers: Inside the savings and loan disaster. University of Texas Press.
• Kondratieva, M. A., & Semenov, V. P. (2019). Moral values in the context of Wall Street. European Journal of Science and Theology, 15(3), 143-155.
• Levin, M. J. (2016). From Jordan Belfort to Steve Cohen: The ethical perils of insider trading. Journal of Business Ethics, 133(3), 549-563.
• Lowry, D. T., & Gaskin, J. (2019). Gender and power in the workplace: Analyzing the influence of the #MeToo movement in organizational research. Journal of Management Inquiry, 28(4), 402-409.
• McNair, B. (2018). Gender stereotypes in the media. In The Routledge Companion to Media and Gender (pp. 57-66). Routledge.

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For Black History Month, a look at what Black Americans say is needed to overcome racial inequality

Black History Month originated in 1926 as Negro History Week. Created by Carter G. Woodson, a Black historian and journalist, the week celebrated the achievements of Black Americans following their emancipation from slavery.

Since 1928, the organization that Woodson founded, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, has selected an annual theme for the celebration . The theme for 2023, “Black Resistance,” is intended to highlight how Black Americans have fought against racial inequality.

Black Americans’ resistance to racial inequality has deep roots in U.S. history and has taken many forms – from slave rebellions during the colonial era and through the Civil War to protest movements in the 1950s, ’60s and today. But Black Americans have also built institutions to support their communities such as churches, colleges and universities, printing presses, and fraternal organizations. These movements and institutions have stressed the importance of freedom, self-determination and equal protection under the law. 

Black Americans have long articulated a clear vision for the kind of social change that would improve their lives. Here are key findings from Pew Research Center surveys that explore Black Americans’ views about how to overcome racial inequality.

This analysis examines how Black people view issues of racial inequality and social change in the U.S. It is part of a larger Pew Research Center project that aims to understand Americans’ views of racial inequity and social change in the United States.

For this analysis, we surveyed 3,912 Black U.S. adults from Oct. 4-17, 2021. Black U.S. adults include those who are single-race, non-Hispanic Black Americans; multiracial, non-Hispanic Black Americans; and adults who indicate they are Black and Hispanic. The survey includes 1,025 Black adults on Pew Research Center’s American Trends Panel (ATP) and 2,887 Black adults on Ipsos’ KnowledgePanel. Respondents on both panels are recruited through national, random sampling of residential addresses.

Recruiting panelists by phone or mail ensures that nearly all U.S. adults have a chance of selection. This gives us confidence that any sample can represent the whole population (see our Methods 101 explainer on random sampling).

Here are the questions used for the survey, along with responses, and its methodology .

Most Black adults see voting as an extremely or very effective strategy for helping Black people move toward equality, but fewer than half say the same about protesting. More than six-in-ten Black adults (63%) say voting is an extremely or very effective strategy for Black progress. However, only around four-in-ten (42%) say the same about protesting. 

There are notable differences in these views across political and demographic subgroups of the Black population.

Black Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents are more likely than Black Republicans and Republican leaners to say voting is an extremely or very effective tactic for Black progress (68% vs. 46%). Black Democrats are also more likely to say the same about supporting Black businesses (63% vs. 41%) and protesting (46% vs. 32%).

Views also differ by age. For example, around half of Black adults ages 65 and older (48%) say protests are an extremely or very effective tactic, compared with 42% of those ages 50 to 64 and 38% of those 30 to 49.

Black Americans say Black Lives Matter has done the most to help Black people in recent years. Around four-in-ten Black adults (39%) say this, exceeding the share who point to the NAACP (17%), Black churches or other religious organizations (13%), the Congressional Black Caucus (6%) and the National Urban League (3%).

Black Democrats are more likely than Black Republicans (44% vs. 26%) to say Black Lives Matter has done the most to help Black people in recent years. And Black adults with at least a college degree are more likely than those with less education (44% vs. 37%) to say Black Lives Matter has done the most.

Some Black adults see Black-owned businesses and Black-led communities as effective remedies for inequality. When it comes to moving Black people toward equality, about four-in-ten Black adults (39%) say having all businesses in Black neighborhoods be owned by Black people would be an extremely or very effective strategy. Smaller shares say the same about establishing a national Black political party (31%) and having all the elected officials governing Black neighborhoods be Black (27%).

While none of these strategies have majority support among Black adults, certain groups are more likely than others to say they would be effective. Those who say being Black is at least very important to their identity are especially likely to say each of the three strategies are effective, for example.

Those with a high school education or less are more likely than college graduates to say establishing a national Black political party would be effective at achieving equality for Black people. Meanwhile, younger Black adults (ages 18 to 49) are more likely than older ones (50 and older) to say Black officials governing Black neighborhoods would help make progress toward equality.

The vast majority of Black adults say the prison system needs significant changes for Black people to be treated fairly. That includes a majority of Black adults (54%) who say the prison system needs to be “completely rebuilt” in order to ensure fair treatment. Groups especially likely to say this include Black Democrats and those who say being Black is extremely or very important to how they see themselves.

Far smaller shares of Black adults say the prison system requires only minor or no changes, though this view is more common among Black Republicans and those who say being Black is somewhat, a little or not at all important to their identity.

Clear majorities of Black adults say people of other races or ethnicities could make good political allies for Black people. About four-in-ten Black adults (42%) say White people would make good political allies only if they experience the same hardships as Black people; another 35% say White people would make good political allies even if they don’t experience these same hardships. Around one-in-five Black adults (18%) say White people would not make good political allies.

About four-in-ten Black adults (37%) say Latinos would make good allies only if they experience the same hardships as Black people, while a similar share (40%) say Latino people would make for good allies even if they don’t experience the same hardships. Some 16% of Black adults say Latinos would not make good political allies.

The views of Black adults on this question are similar when it comes to Asian people, though a somewhat higher share (23%) say Asian Americans would not make good political allies.

Note: Here are the questions used for the survey, along with responses, and its methodology .

• Black Americans
• Criminal Justice
• Race, Ethnicity & Politics
• Racial Bias & Discrimination

Jens Manuel Krogstad is a senior writer and editor at Pew Research Center

Kiana Cox is a senior researcher focusing on race and ethnicity at Pew Research Center

A look at Black-owned businesses in the U.S.

8 facts about black americans and the news, black americans’ views on success in the u.s., among black adults, those with higher incomes are most likely to say they are happy, fewer than half of black americans say the news often covers the issues that are important to them, most popular.

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