Focus on Black History Celebrates a Famed Historian, Comedian, Institution and Independent State

February 7 is a day of exceptional achievement in Black History, and one of pride, educational advancement, and freedom. Historian Carter G. Woodson initiated the recognition of Black History, which today is a month-long celebration. Comedian Chris Rock was born, Alcorn University opened, and Grenada gained its independence. Every achievement made on this day took hard work, determination, and cultural pride worthy of celebration and honor.

Carter G. Woodson

On February 6, 1926, Carter G. Woodson launched the first Negro History Week, which became Black History Month in 1970. Woodson intended to celebrate and deepen the study of African American history for a year-long period. Choosing February because Abraham Lincoln’s and Frederick Douglass’s birthdays on the 12th and the 14th, respectively, were already being celebrated, he asked the public to add to it the study of Black history to learn about the past achievements and accomplishments of Black people. 

Woodson, known as the Father of Black History, was a journalist, author, and historian. He was born in New Canton, Virginia, to slaves on December 19, 1875. Black History Month is celebrated officially in the United States and Canada. Other countries, including Ireland and the United Kingdom, have begun observing it as well. 

Chris Rock

Christopher Julius Rock, III, known as Chris Rock, was born February 7, 1967, in St. Andrews, South Carolina. Rock is a widely-celebrated stand-up comedian known for his raw humor and often controversial topics, such as relationships, race relations, family dynamics, poverty, and celebrities. He achieved international success with his comedy specials after being a cast member on Saturday Night Live. 

Rock created the successful comedy sitcom, “Everybody Hates Chris,” and has won four Emmys and three Grammys for his albums and comedy specials. Rock has hosted the Oscars twice. Starting his stand-up career in 1984, Rock began performing at New York City comedy clubs. He has acted in the films Beverly Hills Cop II, I’m Gonna Get You Sucka, and New Jack City. Recently, Rock has appeared in several of Adam Sandler’s Netflix films and starred in FX’s Fargo. As a comedian and Black history maker, Rock continues to perform stand-up and release comedy specials. 

Alcorn A&M College

Alcorn A&M College was established as the United States first land-grant college. On February 7, 1972, Alcorn A&M College opened its doors to students in Lorman, Mississippi. An agricultural department was added the same year, funded by the State and Congressional Fund. In 1875, the governor authorized its reconstruction and determined that it would become a first-class institution for Mississippi’s Negroes.

In 1878, it became the Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical School, a mainly normal school that educated teachers and taught agriculture. After several years, industrial training became a main pursuit at this institution. As other courses were added, its three hundred acres and thirty-three buildings emerged into a beautiful campus with buildings arranged in a horseshoe format. Now, Alcorn State University is the fifth-largest of the state’s universities and the second-largest historically black college or university, offering over fifty fields of study.  

Independence Day in Grenada

February 7 is a national holiday in Grenada, commemorating Black history in the Caribbean island’s freedom from British control and its transition to a sovereign state in 1974. This day is one of intense pride as the tri-island state of Petite Martinique, Carriacou, and Grenada reflects on its many achievements and identity. Social gatherings and official ceremonies allow citizens to honor their national flag and other symbolic features.

This day is significant as it not only reveals Grenada’s self-determination but also marks its legal autonomy on a global stage. This day is also important because it offers a dedicated time for Grenada’s citizens to celebrate their unique heritage, which is a cultural blend of African, indigenous, and European influences. The military parade held at the National Stadium in St. George’s is a big event that showcases the Royal Grenadian Police, along with schools and youth organizations, accompanied by steel pan music. Many citizens dress in their nation’s traditional colors, gold, red, and green, while businesses decorate for the festivities.

February is Black History Month

Today, February 7, Black history is honored throughout the globe as many nations celebrate Black History Month, which was founded by Carter G. Woodson on this day in 1926. Popular comedian Chris Rock, who was born today, has become a fixture across comedy stages, in movies, and on television. The first Black land-grant college, Alcorn A&M College, welcomed its first students, and Grenada became an independent state. Cultural pride, hard work, and determination made these achievements possible.