Beginning Feb. 1, schools, museums and communities across the nation will mark the start of Black History Month – a celebration of Black history, culture and education. Related video above: Beyoncé becomes first Black woman with top country album The history of the month dates back almost a century,

February is Black History Month and it pays tribute to the achievements of African Americans throughout U.S. history. It has been celebrated since 1976, but actually started back in 1926 with Negro History Week.

Black History Month starts this weekend, but its origins are more than 100 years old. Here's why it's always celebrated in February.