February marks Black History Month, a celebration of black men and women throughout American history and their contributions to the civil rights movement, science, economics, politics, art, and society as a whole. From Harriet Tubman to Martin Luther King, Jr. to George Washington Carver, there are many incredible people to celebrate this month!
In this post, we’ll suggest several black history homeschool resources so you can help your child learn more about the lives of these great pioneers and their impact on future generations. Happy learning!
Black History Homeschool Resources
There are many ways to teach your student about the black men and women who helped shape our nation. Here are just a few books and resources from Classical Conversations® to get you started.
Amos Fortune, Free Man
This engaging and uplifting story follows the life of Atmun, an African king brought to America as a slave and renamed Amos. Though it is full of hardship and injustice, Amos learns to make the most of his life and education, eventually freeing himself and spreading hope and redemption to all he encounters.
Amos Fortune, Free Man brings a new meaning to the word “ownership,” as Amos moves from being owned, to owning himself, to finding his place as a man of God.
Up from Slavery
Booker T. Washington narrates his journey from slavery to education to freedom in this compelling autobiography. During the Reconstruction period after the American Civil War, Washington promotes hard work as the path to success.
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
The famous abolitionist Frederick Douglass was instrumental in changing people’s perceptions about slavery before, during, and after the Civil War. His well-loved autobiography is actually the first of three written by Douglass, and is widely held to be considered one of the most influential works in the propelling the abolitionist movement.
Like Booker T. Washington’s Up from Slavery, Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass speaks to the power of education. Though he is a slave for most of his life, Douglass learns the freedom and influence that come from knowledge, particularly literacy. With your student, follow Douglass on his journey to freedom!
Black History Month Blogs
Last year, we highlighted several Americans on our blog during Black History Month and what lessons about truth we can learn from their lives and contributions. Be sure to check out these short reads below!
- Amos Fortune and True Freedom
- Harriet Tubman and True Loyalty
- Booker T. Washington and True Success
- George Washington Carver and True Perseverance
Conclusion
Of course, there are numerous other resources and ways to learn about the lives of the black Americans important to our nation’s history. During this February, consider visiting your state museum, check out resources at your local library, or peruse the internet to learn more about and celebrate black history!