African American Heritage
Devoted to Black history and genealogy
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KWANZAA. What is Kwanzaa? It is a thirty-six year old holiday celebration by millions of Blacks all over the world. It all began in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, chairman of the Black studies department at California State Long Beach. It is a time when Black Americans can celebrate their culture and history. It is celebrated from December 26 through January 1 of each year. Kwanzaa means first-fruits in Swahili and is an ancient celebration in Africa.
There are Seven Principles to Kwanzaa. Each element corresponds to a day of celebration.
Umoja which means Unity |
Kujichagulia which means Self-Determination |
Ujima which means Collective Work and Responsibility |
Ujamaa which means Cooperative Economics |
Nia which means Purpose |
Kuumba which means Creativity |
Imani which means Faith |
The principles are encompasses by the lighting of candles each day by young children
in the family. Gifts are exchanged but they must be hand-made and represent African
strength and courage. Many events surround Kwanzaa. Some are educational, and some
are ceremonial. They all are connected to bringing awareness to all persons of African
descent to their great heritage.
Credit: Based on a story by Geralda Miller,
Kwanzaa Celebration, Reno Gazette Journal, 27 Dec 2002
To learn more about Kwanzaa visit this site.
African American Research Helpers
The resources following are selected to help find Black Ancestors in America. In general, the same principles apply to all genealogical research. Researching African American Ancestors presents additional problems but there are ways to overcome some of them.
Basic Research:
First: Record with paper and pencil what you know about your own statistics:
Your full name:
Your date of birth:
Your place of birth:
Your Father's name:
Your Mother's name:
Second: Record what you know about your family statistics: You will need a Family Group Sheet to do this. You may obtain one from a Family History Center. You may also print one from the internet.
Third: Ask your grandparents to tell you about their life and record their statistics on the FGS. Talk to your cousins and aunts and uncles and record your findings on a FGS.
Next: Visit a Family History Center to learn how to do Advanced Research. Advanced research involves reading microfilm and microfiche records of censuses, deeds and documents. Some advanced research can be done on the internet but be aware that many internet sites are commercial. They sell products to cover their expenses and make a profit.
Here are some good websites
for general and African American Research. Send your own favorite to us.
AfriGeneas A comprehensive website.
FamilySearch This is the Family History Library website.
Genealogy Instruction Beginners, Teenagers, and Kids
CyndisList A large list of links for Black Researchers.
Helpful Links on the net for
African American Information
The following are helpful links. Send us your favorite.
Current Affairs: Politician Members NAACP Members holding political office. NAACP Press Releases keep up on news and current affairs. Rainbow/PUSH Coalition learn about important issues. Black News.com large selection of news. Green Party News an independent voice.
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African American History
Black history is rich in diversity. The history of America can not be told without
telling the history of African Americans.
Here are some good internet links about Black history.
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