National African American History Month originated from the efforts of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. In 1926, Dr. Woodson initiated the celebration of Negro History Week in February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. The celebration later evolved into a full month of recognition. The observance aims to provide recognition of achievements by African Americans and their central role in U.S. history.