Since its inception in 1915, Black History Month has served to document the journey of Black people from enslavement, their ongoing fight for equality and civil rights, and their significant contributions to society. Now, each February and beyond, major streaming services—Netflix, Disney+, Max, Prime Video, Peacock, Paramount+, Apple TV+, and Hulu—use this occasion to highlight films and shows created by Black creatives and featuring Black talent.

This is a perfect opportunity to broaden your understanding of Black activists, icons, and trailblazers, adding context and correcting any misconceptions you may have encountered in traditional US history lessons through documentaries. Whether you're aiming to expand your viewing list with content showcasing Black talent both in front of and behind the camera, or simply want to (re)watch culturally influential films and shows, Black History Month offers a rich selection.

Jump to the streaming platform picks:

What to Watch on Apple TV+ What to Watch on Disney+ What to Watch on Hulu What to Watch on Max What to Watch on Netflix What to Watch on Peacock What to Watch on Paramount+ What to Watch on Prime Video

Exploring and celebrating Black creativity is easier than you think; simply choosing a few movies and shows with Black casts or centering Black perspectives can offer powerful connections and relatable experiences. To help you curate your watchlist and continue reflecting on and celebrating Black history, we've compiled some of the best and most popular titles available on major streaming platforms.