The History of the Negro Church

Carter Woodson (1875-1950) was a prominent Black leader and intellectual who raised awareness of the Black historical experience by initiating the first Black History Week, which later became Black History Month. Published in 1921, The History of the Negro Church traces the development of the Black churches in the US from colonial times to the early years of the 20th century. The work includes a series of biographical sketches of church leaders through the decades, beginning with early church movements in the North and efforts to minister to slaves in the South. It was important for the Black churches to develop separately from the White churches in order to remain independent. Examining the limits of Black inclusion in church and state, Woodson provides valuable insights on class, caste, and spirituality.