National Black History Month: February 2026
Historian Carter G. Woodson launched Black History Week in 1926 to recognize the significant contributions of African Americans during the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (February 12) and abolitionist/writer Frederick Douglass (February 14). Congress expanded it to National Black History Month 50 years later during the nation’s bicentennial celebration at which time then-President Gerald Ford urged the country to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
The following facts are possible thanks to the invaluable responses to U.S. Census Bureau surveys. We appreciate the public’s cooperation as we measure America’s people, places and economy.
Did You Know?
51,629,710
The Black or African American alone or in combination population in the United States in 2024. Source: 2024 Population Estimates Program
90.8%
The percentage of African Americans age 25 and older with a high school diploma or higher in 2024. Source: Current Population Survey
36.0%
The percentage of the civilian employed Black alone population age 16 and older working in management, business, science and arts occupations in 2024.
Source: 2024 American Community Survey 1-year estimates (Source includes more on occupations, commuting and industries.)
200,885
The number of Black-owned employer businesses in the United States in 2023. Source: 2024 Annual Business Survey
2,035,520
The number of Black alone civilian veterans in the United States in 2024. Source: 2024 American Community Survey 1-year estimates
More on Population Size
Voting Rates
Income, Poverty and Health Insurance
More Stats
A detailed profile of the Black population is available from the 2024 American Community Survey. Statistics include:
- Families and children.
- Marital status.
- Grandparents living with grandchildren.
- Jobs.
- Labor force participation.
- Occupation.
- Commuting.
- Housing.
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