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Often behind the scenes and with little fanfare, these black female historians earn doctorates, churn out articles and books, and train the next generation of researchers. They have taken on the task of making sure we understand everything from the nature of sexual violence during slavery to the work of African-American feminist organizations. So during…

As the nation becomes more diverse, so should learning and playtime. Here is a list of toys, games and books that encourage children to express themselves, learn about other cultures and explore African-American history. Every doll is inspired by girls from around the world, and each comes with her own story and ideas about how…

As the 2013-2014 TV season winds down, the upcoming fall season is roaring into high gear with a number of proposals for shows that feature black stars leading the casts. (There’s even a summer series in the mix.) Whether you’re looking for a suspenseful thriller or a laugh-till-it-hurts comedy, these series hopefuls from ABC, NBC, Fox and…

In honor of Women’s History Month, The Root pays tribute to African-American women working in the fastest growing field around the globe. While their numbers may be relatively few (pdf), they are making great strides, using their science, math and engineering degrees to amass impressive digital portfolios. Jobs in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)…

The polar vortex couldn’t stop Washington, D.C.’s movers and shakers from marking the end of Black History Month 2014 in style. The Root’s D.C. insider, Nicole Venable, went behind the scenes at three events—including the one shown here, “Honoring Our Past, Celebrating Our Future,” featuring former and current black senators—that celebrated leadership, diversity and history. On Feb.…

Sometimes you need music that will lift your spirit, and hip-hop and R&B won’t do. So we’ve created a list of recent gospel songs to soothe your soul. The list includes youthful up-and-comers (The Walls Group, Jekalyn Carr) and longtime legends (Shirley Caesar, Dottie Peoples). When you’re done checking out our list, go listen to…

The 86th Academy Awards were held at the Dolby Theatre on March 2 in Hollywood, Calif. The Root has a recap of the black stars to walk the red carpet. Best actor in a leading role nominee Chiwetel Ejiofor and his guest Actress Kerry Washington Best director nominee Steve McQueen and producer Bianca Stigter Best…

Black hair seems to always make the news. Unfortunately, it’s not unusual to hear about children being banned from school or adults losing jobs over their hair. It’s also not unusual for black hairstyles to define political and cultural movements in American history. All politics aside, black hairstyles have gone through many transformations throughout the…

When news broke of Paula Patton and Robin Thicke’s separation, our first thought was about who she might date next. So we put together a collection of white guys many black women swoon over. These guys have total crossover appeal. You’re welcome, Paula. What black woman didn’t envision herself taking Sanaa Lathan’s place in Something…

Teresa Wiltz is senior staff writer at Stateline, the journalism outlet of the Pew Charitable Trusts. Way before George Washington Carver got busy in a chemistry lab, African Americans were revolutionizing U.S. industry with their amazing inventions. Some of them were born enslaved, others were born free, but they all had one thing in common:…