Archive: the original Black History in Two Minutes (or so) website, designed and distributed by AONE Creative LLC from 2019 to 2022. Not maintained by the series’ producers. Current episodes: blackhistoryintwominutes.com. About this archive

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.


Black Woman Laborers

Black Women Laborers

After the Civil War, Black women recognized the opportunity to become wage workers and contributors to society. However, decent wages and…

Black Liberation and Womanist Theology

Black Liberation and Womanist Theology

James Cone, a highly regarded professor, preached about Black liberation at the center of the gospel. His elevated teaching not only…

Congressional Black Caucus

Congressional Black Caucus

In this episode of Black History In Two Minutes or So hosted by Henry Louis Gates Jr. we celebrate a group of Black congressional leaders…

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…

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 First Underground Railroad | Black History in Two Minutes (or so)

The First Underground Railroad

The Underground Railroad for many of us symbolizes the journey African slaves went on in the name of freedom. But, contrary to popular…