Who is Carter G.Woodson? Check His Biography, Early Life & Career!

Dr Carter G. Woodson was a respected American historian, and he was someone who dedicated his life towards documenting and celebrating African American history. In this article, we have covered details about his early life, why he is so famous, who he was, his education, career and legacy.  

Who is Carter G. Woodson?

Many people ask who Carter G. Woodson is and why his name appears so often during Black History Month. He is widely regarded as the Father of Black History and the original driving force behind what later became Black History Month USA. Apart from this, he was a renowned educator and author.

What are the Key Facts About Carter G. Woodson?

The table below helps summarise the key facts about the life and biography of Carter G. Woodson: 

What Was Carter G. Woodson’s Early Life Like?

To understand who Carter Woodson was, it helps to look at his early life. Born to formerly enslaved parents, Woodson grew up in poverty and worked on farms and in coal mines. 

His formal schooling was limited, so he educated himself by reading whenever possible.

Despite these challenges, he later completed high school as an adult and went on to earn advanced degrees. In 1912, he became one of the first African Americans to receive a PhD from Harvard University (Library of Congress).

Who Was Carter G. Woodson and Why Does He Matter?

When people ask about Carter G. Woodson, the answer lies in his belief that history shapes identity. 

He played a major role in arguing that the African American achievements were excluded from textbooks, which led to misunderstanding and inequality. This idea sits at the heart of Carter G. Woodson's history and his lifelong work.

Source: Library of Congress

What Did Carter G. Woodson Do for Black History?

So, what did Carter G. Woodson do that changed education forever? In 1915, he founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). He also launched The Journal of Negro History, creating a scholarly space for serious historical research.

In 1926, he introduced Negro History Week, which later evolved into African American History Month.

What Is Carter G. Woodson Known For Today?

Carter G. Woodson is known for legitimising Black history as an academic discipline. His writings continue to influence studies of Black history figures, Black history people, and African American history people across the world.

Source: National Archives (USA)

When Was Black History Month in the USA?

If you don’t know when Black History Month in the USA was established, it was when Woodson started Negro History Week in 1926. Later, Black History Month was officially recognised in 1976 by President Gerald Ford (National Archives).

Carter G. Woodson’s Lasting Impact

The history of Carter G. Woodson reminds us that education can challenge injustice. His legacy lives on every February and continues to inspire conversations about inclusion, identity and truth.