Your Textbooks Probs Didn’t Include Info About These Amazing Black History Heroes

Black communities have long been instrumental in shaping and advancing society throughout the centuries, but they haven’t always received their flowers. Or when you were in school, you may have learned about only the same select few historical figures but not about others. It’s time to expand your historical horizons! Black History Month provides an opportunity to dive deeper into the countless contributions Black people have made decade after decade—from LGBTQ+ activist Marsha P. Johnson, who actually led the uprising at Stonewall Inn, to Shirley Chisholm, who became the first Black U.S. Congresswoman.

Now, first things first: Black history should be studied and celebrated all year round and not just when it has a spotlight on it in February. Don’t limit your exploration of everything Black history has to offer to just one month! After all, Black History Month is a relatively new development in the context of, ya know, all of history. It officially became a thing in 1969, when Black educators and students at Kent State University came up with the idea to have a Black History Month. Then in 1970, they officially celebrated it for the first time. Six years later, with the event picking up steam on college campuses across the country, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month on behalf of the federal government.

As we commemorate another Black History Month, it’s a good time to read up on Black history heroes who have made the country—and the world—a more inclusive, hopeful, and progressive place. Ahead, check out 10 of these trailblazing icons, learn about their stories, and get inspired to make a difference in your own community.