Black History Month, also recognized as African American History Month, holds a significant place in the cultural fabric of the United States, observed every February. This annual commemoration is a dedicated time to celebrate and acknowledge the remarkable achievements, contributions, and overall history of African Americans, showcasing how their efforts have left an indelible mark on the nation’s past and continue to shape its future.
This designated month serves as a crucial opportunity for people across the nation to not only acknowledge the invaluable contributions of Black Americans to society but also to spotlight the pioneers who fought for civil rights and racial equality. A central figure in the American Civil Rights Movement, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., often serves as a starting point for individuals seeking to build their understanding of African American contributions to the nation.
The first U.S. stamp to honor an African American was the ten-cent Booker T. Washington stamp, issued in 1940. In 1978, the Postal Service initiated the Black Heritage stamp series, to recognize the achievements of individual African Americans.
RESOURCES
POSTAL HISTORY - AFRICAN AMERICANS featured on US Stamps - USPS article
AFRICAN AMERICAN ICONS on US STAMPS - People Magazine
BRIEF HISTORY OF THE US POST OFFICE - Article - Smithsonian
HOW THE POST OFFICE MADE AMERICA
WILL THE POST OFFICE BE A PART OF OUR FUTURE AS IT WAS A PART OF OUR PAST - CBS News. 10 MIN.
HOW THE POST OFFICE READS ILLEGIBLE ADDRESSES - 7 min
VIRTUAL FIELD TRIP - PRE-K - 7 min.
