black History in Two Minutes (or so)

Black History in Two Minutes (or so) is the new way to immerse yourself in Black History. The digital video series features dozens of short, engaging and factually accurate videos about important historical events or people who have shaped American history. Like never before, people of all ages, backgrounds and educational levels can learn more about the African American experience.

Launched in 2019 by visionary Executive Producer Robert F. Smith, who is the Founder, Chairman and CEO of Vista Equity Partners, the media platform has covered topics from the beginning of American history to the present day. To ensure historical accuracy, the episodes are well researched and narrated by renowned historian and Executive Producer, Henry Louis Gates Jr. Teaching guides for educators also accompany some of the episodes, affording teachers the ability to incorporate the information from the videos, and the videos themselves, into their lessons.

As an award-winning series, Black History in Two Minutes has received numerous accolades, including two Webby Awards in 2020, 2 more in 2021 and yet again, 1 more in 2022.

Check out some of the episodes for yourself below.


The GI Bill of Rights

The GI Bill of Rights

From the inception of the United States, Black soldiers have answered the call to serve on the front lines. And in 1944, the US government…

The History of Black Farmers

Well before formal legislation was passed, promising freed slaves certain land rights, Black farmers traveled west, exploring, and…

The L.A. Riots | Black History in Two Minutes

The L.A. Riots

Despite footage of police officers beating the late Rodney King in 1991, justice, for many in South Central Los Angeles, was not served.…

African American man running newspaper press

The Black Press: From Freedom’s Journal to The Crisis, Ebony & Jet

White publications have sought to represent all voices in America since it’s discovery. But, in 1827, Samuel Cornish and John Russwurm…

The Origins of Black Service Organizations

The Origins of Black Service Organizations

The contributions of Black Service Organizations in the volunteer and civic space have been around since the Revolutionary War. Out of…

Katherine Johnson

Katherine Johnson

Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient Katherine Johnson is a powerhouse unlike any other. Entering college at the tender age of 15,…