Black History Month Highlights Countless Contributions 

Most African-Americans or Black Americans are the descendants of captive Africans held in the United States from 1619 to 1865.  Other Black American ancestors migrated to the United States from the Caribbean.  Both groups share a mutual history of predominantly West African or Central African roots, the Middle Passage and slavery.  Their history is celebrated and highlighted every year in the United States during February, designated as Black History Month.

But did you know most of American History is from Black Americans who have made countless contributions to the advancement of civilization, culture, science and history? Many culture destinations, museums and parks in Baltimore, Maryland celebrate the life, legacy and contributions on Mother Mary Lange, Chick Webb, Frederick Douglass, Eubie Blake, Dr. Benjamin Carson, Dr. Levi Watkins, or Cab Callaway.  Whether you take The Pennsylvania Avenue Heritage Trail, Great Blacks in Wax Museum, and Reginald F. Lewis Museum of African American History and Culture offering unique historical insights.

I listed numerous contributions Blacks have made in my novel, Presidential Indiscretions.  I  believe Black History Month is a a way to make you keenly aware that the United States would be a shell of itself without the contributions of remarkable Black Americans.

Maryland’s Eastern Shore gave birth to some of the most famous Black Americans that shook the foundation of the nation with their courage, knowledge and zeal.  Harriet Tubman, the most famous Underground Railroad conductor, was born into slavery on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.  She successfully escapes to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1849, then boldly returned 13 times to guide family and friends to safety and freedom.

Frederick Douglass rose above his humble beginnings in slavery on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and learned to read and write.  He escaped from bondage while working in Baltimore’s shipyards. Utilizing his acute acumen and incisive writing and oratory skills, he became a leader of the abolitionist movement, a social reformer and statesman.

The DuSable Museum of African American History founded in 1961 by Dr. Margaret T. And Charles G. Burroughs on the South side of Chicago, Illinois.  The Museum was developed to preserve and interpret the experiences and achievements of people of African descent, and is dedicated to the collection, documentation, preservation and study of the history and culture of Africans and African Americans.  Its collections of more than 15,000 pieces and include paintings, sculpture, print works and historical memorabilia.  The Museum’s exhibitions, workshops and lectures are featured to highlight works by specific artists, historic events or collections on loan from individuals or institutions.  It also sponsors musical performances, film festivals, arts and crafts workshops, lectures, book signings, and special events.