Black History Month originated with "Negro History Week" in 1926. Dr. Carter G. Woodson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carter_G._Woodson) is credited with establishing Negro History Week during the second week in February because it marks the birthdays of two men who greatly influenced the Black American population, President Abraham Lincoln and abolitionist and former slave Frederick Douglass (http://www.factmonster.com/spot/bhmintro1.html). Negro History Week was expanded to Black History Month in 1976.
It was not until the 20th century that Black people gained a presence in American history books. However, the presence is minimal even into the 21st century. Thankfully the creators of the American Girl books series chose to acknowledge the history of African Americans by telling the story of Addy Walker and her family (http://www.americangirl.com/play/historical-character/addy/#page=home). Addy is a fictional character whose story allows young readers to find out what life may have been like for African Americans during the 1800s.
Like most African Americans living in the south during 1864, Addy and her family live under the oppression of slavery. American Girl author Connie Porter does a nice job describing slavery in a way that is appropriate for young children. She chronicles Addy's journey from slavery to freedom. The Walker family is separated in order to gain their freedom; they have to depend on each other and the help of friends to be reunited as a family. The stories of Addy Walker and her family are told in a six book series. While the stories would probably be enjoyed most when read in order, each book contains its own complete story (http://www.americangirl.com/play/historical-character/addy/#page=stories).
Each Addy book includes a section at the end that contains historical facts and real photos. Those sections of the American Girl books include terms that are relevant to the characters and the time period in which they lived. The Addy's stories are entertaining and they provide an opportunity for a history lesson.
Related Links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_History_Month
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Association_for_the_Study_of_Negro_Life_and_History
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