In celebration of Black History Month, we are honoring Black and African American history by sharing stories. Here’s a list of different perspectives covering Black and African American storytellers, entrepreneurs, and pioneers.
Mountain Men: Pioneers and Outlaws of the San Gabriels
Robert Owens, a former slave from Texas who bought his freedom and moved to California became a prominent businessman. By the time of his death in 1865, he had become the richest African American in Los Angeles. His descendants would become some of the most influential African-Americans in Los Angeles.
Learn about Biddy Mason, one of the first prominent landowners in Los Angeles in the 1850s and 1860s. She also founded the First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Los Angeles. (National Park Service)
Civilian Conservation Corps, Racial Segregation, and the Building of the Angeles National Forest
African American Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camps played a key role in the creation of the Angeles National Forest, which continues to be enjoyed today by millions of people that visit the San Gabriel Mountains. (KCET)
African American and Black History Month Books for Kids and Teens
The LA County Library compiled a list of fiction and nonfiction books that highlight the Black and African American experience for kids and teens to read.
How can we honor Black History and Black storytellers? Ask our reporters
The Los Angeles Times highlights Black journalists and stories that center Black stories and voices.
