February is Black History Month, set aside to honor the history of African-Americans. February was chosen to also honor abolitionist Frederick Douglass and President Abraham Lincoln, whose birthdays are this month.

Why is Black History Month in February? The commemoration of important Black Americans and events happens largely during the shortest month of the year.

The origin of Black History Month in America goes back more than 100 years. Some may wonder why February, the shortest month of the year, was chosen to be the month to celebrate Black history. Here is the origin of Black History Month and how it is celebrated each year.