15 Black History Month Facts for Preschoolers

Introduction:

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout history. It is a time to learn about the struggles and triumphs of those who have overcome adversity to make a difference in the world. For preschoolers, learning about Black History Month can be an exciting and educational experience. Here are 15 facts about Black History Month that are perfect for preschoolers to learn and explore.

Fact 1: The Origins of Black History Month

Black History Month was first established in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson as “Negro History Week.” It was later expanded to a month-long celebration in 1976. The month of February was chosen as it coincides with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two prominent figures in African American history.

Fact 2: Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott

Preschoolers can learn about Rosa Parks, a brave African American woman who refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger in Montgomery, Alabama in 1955. Her actions sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.

Fact 3: Martin Luther King Jr. and the March on Washington

Preschoolers can learn about Martin Luther King Jr., a prominent leader in the Civil Rights Movement who advocated for nonviolent protest. They can learn about his famous “I Have a Dream” speech delivered during the March on Washington in 1963.

Fact 4: Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad

Preschoolers can learn about Harriet Tubman, a courageous woman who helped lead slaves to freedom through the Underground Railroad. They can learn about her bravery and determination in the face of adversity.

Fact 5: The Civil Rights Act of 1964

Preschoolers can learn about the Civil Rights Act of 1964, a landmark piece of legislation that prohibited discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. They can learn about how this law helped to pave the way for greater equality in America.

Fact 6: Thurgood Marshall and the Supreme Court

Preschoolers can learn about Thurgood Marshall, the first African American to serve on the Supreme Court. They can learn about his work as a lawyer fighting for civil rights and his contributions to the legal system.

Fact 7: Maya Angelou and Her Poetry

Preschoolers can learn about Maya Angelou, a renowned poet and author who wrote about the struggles and triumphs of African Americans. They can learn about her powerful words and the impact she had on literature and society.

Fact 8: Jackie Robinson and Breaking the Color Barrier

Preschoolers can learn about Jackie Robinson, the first African American to play Major League Baseball. They can learn about his courage in breaking the color barrier in sports and the impact he had on the game.

Fact 9: Nelson Mandela and Apartheid

Preschoolers can learn about Nelson Mandela, a South African leader who fought against apartheid and worked towards racial equality in his country. They can learn about his perseverance and dedication to justice.

Fact 10: The Harlem Renaissance

Preschoolers can learn about the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement in the 1920s and 1930s that celebrated African American art, music, and literature. They can learn about the creativity and talent of artists during this time.

Fact 11: The Tuskegee Airmen

Preschoolers can learn about the Tuskegee Airmen, a group of African American pilots who served in World War II. They can learn about their bravery and contributions to the war effort despite facing discrimination.

Fact 12: Ruby Bridges and School Integration

Preschoolers can learn about Ruby Bridges, a young African American girl who helped integrate schools in New Orleans in 1960. They can learn about her courage in the face of adversity and the importance of education for all.

Fact 13: Katherine Johnson and Hidden Figures

Preschoolers can learn about Katherine Johnson, a brilliant mathematician who worked for NASA and helped send astronauts to space. They can learn about her important contributions to the space program and her perseverance in the face of discrimination.

Fact 14: The Voting Rights Act of 1965

Preschoolers can learn about the Voting Rights Act of 1965, a law that aimed to overcome barriers to African American voting rights. They can learn about the importance of voting and civic engagement in a democracy.

Fact 15: Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion

Preschoolers can learn about the importance of celebrating diversity and inclusion in our communities. They can learn about how people of all backgrounds and cultures can work together to create a better world for everyone.

Conclusion

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the rich history and culture of African Americans and to honor the achievements of those who have overcome adversity. By learning about these 15 facts about Black History Month, preschoolers can gain a better understanding of the contributions of African Americans to our society and the importance of equality and justice for all. Let’s continue to educate our young ones and inspire them to make a positive difference in the world.