Black History Month, also recognized as African-American History Month, is an annual commemoration with its origins in the United States. This observance has garnered official acknowledgment from the governments of the United States and Canada and has more recently extended its presence to Ireland and the United Kingdom. Initially established to honor significant individuals and events in the history of the African diaspora, Black History Month is celebrated in February in the United States and Canada, while Ireland and the United Kingdom observe it in October.