Kwanzaa came out of the 1960s in the United States, when racial tensions were particularly high.

Many leaders in the African American community wanted to create cultural events and holidays that were specific to African Americans.

Kwanzaa comes out of that desire.

This holiday has endured over the years and, in fact, has become more popular as the years have gone on.

Kwanzaa is very much centered on community.

The holiday 's name comes from a Swahili term, which refers to both tradition and reason.

There are seven principles associated with Kwanzaa : unity, collective work and responsibility, self-determination, purpose, cooperative economics, creativity and faith.

The holiday was recently commemorated with its own stamp issued by the United States Postal Service.

Over the years, Kwanzaa has become an ideal occasion for people to learn about African American heritage and culture.

Art, literature, music, and dance are all celebrated at this time of year and shared with friends and family, as well as with people outside of the African American community.

While it may have come out of a divisive time, Kwanzaa has become a very unifying holiday and one that 's widely acknowledged and celebrated.

Kwanzaa has a seven candle candelabra that 's lit over the course of the holiday.

This is a tradition similar to other holiday celebrations during the darkest time of year when lights are very important symbols.