Celebrate Black History Month this year with a closer look at the lives of various Black Americans who have made indelible marks on history with their artistry, professional achievements, and community activism. We've compiled a list of films premiering this month, as well as programs available to stream in February.

New Documentaries to Watch

Great Migrations: A People on the Move

Premieres January 28

Great Migrations: A People on the Move explores the transformative impact of Black migration on American culture and society. From the waves of Black Americans to the North—and back South—over the last century to the growing number of immigrants from Africa and the Caribbean today, the film shows how movement is a defining feature of the Black experience.

American Justice on Trial: People v. Newton

Premieres Febuary 1

Black Panthers co-founder Huey Newton is accused of murdering a white policeman after a car stop in 1967 Oakland. A landmark trial ensues and Newton's defense team calls out racism in the judicial system. With a death penalty looming, a shocking verdict is delivered that still reverberates today

American Coup: Wilmington 1898

American Experience

American Coup: Wilmington 1898 tells the little-known story of a deadly race massacre and carefully orchestrated insurrection in North Carolina’s largest city in 1898. Stoking fears of “Negro Rule,” self-described white supremacists used intimidation and violence to destroy Black political and economic power and overthrow Wilmington’s democratically-elected, multi-racial government.

A PBS SPECIAL EVENT

Welcome to the Block Party!

PBS is celebrating Black History Month by throwing a Block Party! Throughout the month of February, stream new and beloved programs celebrating Black excellence. Whether it’s history, music, documentaries, science or genealogy, PBS is your destination. Join the party at pbs.org/blockparty

Join the Party

Zora Neale Hurston: Claiming a Space

Who is Carter G. Woodson?

Known as the “Father of Black History,” he was an author and historian who helped found Black History Month.

Woodson was born in 1875 near New Canton, Virginia. As a young boy he decided he would pursue a college education, even if school often came second to working on his family’s farm.

Woodson later worked as a coal miner while pursuing studies on the side. He went on to be a teacher and school principal before earning his Bachelors degree from the University of Chicago. In 1912, he received his Ph.D. from Harvard University. It was that same year when he helped form the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH).

Woodson urged civic organizations and schools to promote the achievements of Black researchers and to devote time to studying Black history. In February of 1926 he announced Negro History Week. Schools and communities answered the call with large convivial gatherings and from then on ASALH would establish an annual theme, providing study materials and information to participating organizations.

By the 1960s, the week of study Woodson had first envisioned had turned into Black History Month celebrations each February and ASALH continues to provide education and guidance for each year’s celebrations.