Why Black History?

There is an extant discussion on the legitimacy of a black history month. Detractors of a black history month will exist, as will the proponents. The reality is, the existence of a Black History month is a reflection of the lack of perspective which most Americans have. History is simply an account of the past. American history should therefore include the narratives of all Americans. Unfortunately, American history is obsessed with recounting wars and the myth of American exceptionalism. More succinctly, American history is an exercise of mass propaganda, at worst, and at best, a painfully narrow portrait of a rebellious ex-British colony. With this to consider, our inquiry should be aimed at the textbook companies and curriculum coordinators. If our history was truly American we would not need a separate designation for minorities. If we considered all minorities American, rather than a derivative or pseudo-american subgroup we could end this debate and move towards eliminating poverty or ending child hunger.