February is about Black History month; in this, we remember African Americans who created history and made America what it is today, often with little recognition. This month includes stories like The underground Railroad and also historical moments like “I Have a Dream” speech by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Black History Month is an effort to honor a vibrant and growing history. Additionally, it is a weekly celebration in February known as “Negro History Week,” established by Carter G. Woodson. While celebrating this Black History month, we overlook numerous significant events and figures. The following are some essential facts about Black History Month.
Facts About Black History Month
There only a few significant and important events to know and remember. Here are some of those facts about black history month that are lesser-known.
- Muhammad Ali
When Muhammad Ali was a child, his boxing idol, Sugar Ray Robinson, refused to give him an autograph. That is why, when Ali became a prizefighter, he vowed never to deny autograph requests of his fans. He honored this throughout his career.
- Allensworth
Allensworth is the first all-black township of California, which was founded and funded by African Americans. In 1908, Lieutenant Colonel Allen Allensworth created the town intending to establish a self-sufficient city. It is a city where African Americans could live free from racial prejudice.
- Jazz
While today most people consider it a genre for the elite class, its roots are quite the opposite.
It is an African American musical form that emerged out of the blues, ragtime, and marching bands. During the 19th century, Jazz originated in Louisiana. The word “Jazz” came from the African slang word “gism” or “jism,” which had a sexual connotation.
- Wally Amos
He was the talent agent at William Morris Agency before Wally Amos became famous for his “Amos” chocolate chip cookies. He used to work there with the likes of The Supremes and Simon & Garfunkel.
- Romare Bearden
Romare Bearden was a baseball player before becoming a renowned artist. Philadelphia Athletics recruited him on the pretext that he would agree to pass as white. Instead of choosing to work as an artist, he turned down the offer.
- Duck Walk Dance
In 1956 when Chuck Berry attempted to hide wrinkles in his trousers, his famous “duck walk dance originated. It is a form of locomotion, performed by assuming a low partial squatting low position and walking forwards.
