39 National Black History Month Trivia Questions and Answers

National Black History Month Trivia takes you on an exciting journey through the rich history and remarkable contributions of African Americans to society. Celebrated every February, this month-long observance honors the achievements of influential figures in politics, science, arts, and social justice.

From Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the founder of Black History Month, to trailblazers like Rosa Parks, Langston Hughes, and Maya Angelou, this trivia article highlights key moments and individuals that have shaped the course of American history. Dive into these fascinating facts and test your knowledge about the icons and movements that continue to inspire generations.

National Black History Month Trivia

1. When is National Black History Month observed in the United States?

2. Who first proposed the idea of Black History Month?

3. Why was February chosen for Black History Month?

4. What was the original name of Black History Month?

5. When did Black History Month become an official celebration?

6. What organization first sponsored Negro History Week?

7. Who is considered the ‘Father of Black History’?

8. Which famous African American abolitionist’s birthday is celebrated during Black History Month?

9. Which U.S. president officially recognized Black History Month?

10. What is the theme of Black History Month 2024?

11. What famous African American scientist developed more than 300 products from peanuts?

12. Which historical event is marked during the first week of Black History Month?

13. What major achievement did Rosa Parks contribute to the Civil Rights Movement?

14. Who was the first African American woman to win a Nobel Prize?

15. Which African American leader was known for advocating for the ‘Back to Africa’ movement?

16. What is the goal of Black History Month?

17. Which famous African American civil rights leader delivered the ‘I Have a Dream’ speech?

18. Which African American woman was known for her work as a nurse, educator, and civil rights leader?

19. Which African American athlete won four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics?

20. Which African American inventor is credited with developing the traffic light?

21. Which African American singer became known as the ‘Queen of Soul’?

22. Who was the first African American woman to serve in the U.S. Senate?

23. Which African American poet is famous for her work, ‘I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings’?

24. Which African American actor became the first to win the Academy Award for Best Actor?

25. Which African American civil rights leader founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC)?

26. Which African American politician was elected to Congress in 1966 and later served as the first African American U.S. Ambassador?

27. Which African American author is known for writing the ‘Harry Potter’ series?

28. What famous African American was an early pioneer in the aviation industry?

29. Which African American dancer and choreographer was the first to perform at the White House?

30. Which influential African American activist wrote the book, ‘The Souls of Black Folk’?

31. Which African American musician is known as the ‘King of Pop’?

32. Which African American author and journalist became the first African American woman to win the Pulitzer Prize?

33. Which African American social reformer was an early advocate for women’s rights and abolition?

34. Which African American artist is known for his influential work in the Harlem Renaissance?

35. Which African American film director became the first to win an Academy Award for Best Director?

36. Which African American activist was a key figure in the Black Panther Party?

37. Which African American woman became the first African American astronaut in space?

38. What is the purpose of the ASALH, the organization Dr. Carter G. Woodson founded?

39. Which African American actor made history by becoming the first to win an Academy Award for Best Actor?