Every year, Black History Month sparks an annual debate about the use of the month of February to celebrate the history and accomplishments of African Americans. Although February provides an amazing opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of African Americans throughout history, it’s also important to honor African-American history during the other 11 months of the year as well.

While Black History Month is synonymous with prominent figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, Muhammad Ali, Jackie Robinson, Maya Angelou, and President Barack Obama, there are countless other African Americans who have made a profound impact in history.

The best way to extend the spirit of Black History Month is to continue recognizing each day of the year with other significant contributions African Americans have made in our society and the world. The incredible men and women featured in this audiobook have contributed to the fields of education, science, technology, politics, law, medicine, sports, and entertainment, to name a few. This audiobook features their accomplishments for all 366 days of the year.

Recognizing the accomplishments of African Americans began in 1926 with Negro History Week, a commemoration launched by historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson. He chose the second week of February to coincide with and pay homage to the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. He credited the two for bringing an end to slavery in America. The federal government officially recognized Black History Month in conjunction with the 1976 United States Bicentennial Celebration.