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 Civil Rights Movement | Black History in Two Minutes

The Civil Rights Movement

The civil rights movement was an organized effort where African-Americans united and rallied to put black progressiveness at the forefront…

The Red Summer | Black History in Two Minutes (or so)

The Red Summer

The events unfolding across the United States today in the wake of the brutal murder of George Floyd, are an eerie repetition of events…

Birth of Modern Gospel Music

Chicago Sound: The Birth of Modern Gospel

As Black families left the South, their migration allowed them to bring their religion and musical practices along with them. But it would…

Affirmative Action | Black History in Two Minutes

Affirmative Action

President Lyndon B. Johnson made it clear that a shift was greatly needed in America. No longer could we preach about a land of…

The Birth of JazzAffirmative Action | Black History in Two Minutes

The Birth of Jazz

Born in the heart of New Orleans, Louisiana, jazz made its way onto the scene. With African-Americans at the helm, the red-light district…

The Woman's Club Movement

The Women’s Club Movement

Black women have been no stranger to organizing since America’s earliest inception. But it would be during the Reconstruction era that…