Carter G. Woodson
(1875-1950)

Known as the "Father of Black History," devoted his life to researching, publishing, and increasing public awareness of black history. He founded Negro History Week in 1926 as part of his vision of developing a "history of the world void of national bias, race, hate, and religious prejudice." Almost 70 years later, Negro History Week, now Black History Month, remains a testament to the continuing importance of Woodson's mission.

The historical documents that Woodson collected and donated to the Library of Congress became an important resource for later students of black history. Through his 15 books and the Journal of Negro History, Woodson decisively demonstrated that black history is a legitimate field of inquiry. "Moving Back Barriers" tells the story of Carter Woodson's efforts to achieve his goal. The Woodson exhibit not only makes an important collection available and acknowledges the contribution of a pivotal African American, it also marks the start of a collaboration between the Library and cultural institutions across the country.