About the Institute.
The Black Economic History Institute is a nonpartisan research and educational institution committed to documenting and preserving the economic contributions of Black Americans—rigorously, transparently, and for the benefit of current and future generations.
Our Mission
The Black Economic History Institute advances the understanding of American economic history by identifying, verifying, preserving, and sharing the documented contributions of Black Americans through rigorous research, public education, and an enduring historical record.
OUR VISION
We envision an enduring, evidence-based institution that sets the standard for historical accuracy, preserves the economic legacy of Black Americans, and ensures that future generations inherit a complete, truthful account of our nation's past.
Why the Institute Exists
EVIDENCE BEFORE NARRATIVE
We start with documented evidence and verifiable records—not assumptions, opinions, or ideology.
HISTORICAL ACCURACY
We are committed to factual integrity and rigorous standards in every claim we publish.
ECONOMIC HISTORY MATTERS
Economics shaped Black experiences in America. That history deserves full recognition.
PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING
We make verified history accessible to students, educators, policymakers, and the public.
Our Principles
RIGOROUS RESEARCH
We pursue primary and authoritative sources to build a record that can be trusted.
VERIFIED EVIDENCE
Every claim is evaluated, classified, and supported by documented evidence or clearly attributed.
HISTORICAL INTEGRITY
We maintain impartiality and transparency in methodology, sources, and corrections.
PRESERVATION
We preserve source references, research context, and eligible digital reproductions, with credit to the repositories and rights holders responsible for the originals.
PUBLIC EDUCATION
We translate research into accessible knowledge that informs and inspires.
LONG-TERM STEWARDSHIP
We build systems and partnerships that ensure this work endures for generations.
FOUNDER
From the Founder.
The Institute was founded by Jeanee Byrd to build the kind of institution she wished existed—one that would honor the full economic story of Black Americans with the same seriousness and rigor applied to all other narratives in our nation’s history.
This work is not about rewriting history. It is about completing it. Our charge is simple but profound: to ensure that the contributions of Black Americans are documented, preserved, and never lost again.
INSTITUTE STATUS
The Institute publishes research profiles with linked evidence while continuing to develop its research system and repository relationships. Published Profiles identify what the available evidence establishes and what remains unresolved.