March 1st 2025.
The celebration of Women's History Month has humble beginnings, as it started as just one week in March back in 1978. However, it has since evolved into a month-long, nationally recognized event in the United States. This month is dedicated to honoring the achievements of women throughout history and advocating for gender equality. To kick off this important month, BLACK ENTERPRISE is highlighting 20 influential Black women who have made an indelible mark on society.
One such woman is Harriet Tubman, who was born in 1833 and passed away in 1913. She is most renowned for her role as an abolitionist and conductor of the Underground Railroad. Tubman led hundreds of enslaved people to freedom and also served as a spy during the Civil War. Her bravery and determination have inspired countless others and she continues to be a symbol of strength and resilience.
Another trailblazer is Charlotte E. Ray, born in 1850 and passed away in 1911. She became the first African American woman to earn a law degree and practice law in the United States. Ray graduated from Howard University Law School in 1872 and paved the way for other women of color in the legal field.
Madam C.J. Walker, born in 1867 and passed away in 1919, made history as the first self-made African American female millionaire. She achieved this through her successful line of hair care products tailored for Black women, which revolutionized the beauty industry. Walker's determination and business acumen continue to inspire entrepreneurs today.
Mary McLeod Bethune, born in 1875 and passed away in 1955, was an influential educator and civil rights leader. She founded a school that would later become Bethune-Cookman University and advised President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Bethune's legacy lives on through her dedication to education and equality.
Bessie Coleman, born in 1892 and passed away in 1926, broke barriers as the first African American and Native American woman to earn a pilot's license. Despite facing racial and gender discrimination, Coleman pursued her dream of becoming a pilot and became a symbol of perseverance and determination.
In 1940, Hattie McDaniel became the first African American woman to win an Academy Award for her role in Gone with the Wind. Born in 1893 and passing away in 1953, McDaniel paved the way for future generations of Black actresses and continues to be an inspiration in the entertainment industry.
Gwendolyn Brooks, born in 1917 and passed away in 2000, made history as the first African American woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1950. Her impactful work in literature continues to be celebrated and her legacy lives on through her powerful words.
Shirley Chisholm, born in 1924 and passed away in 2005, became the first Black woman to be elected to Congress in 1968. She served the 12th district of New York for seven terms and was a fierce advocate for civil rights and gender equality.
Toni Morrison, born in 1931 and passed away in 2019, broke barriers as the first African American woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1993. Her powerful exploration of Black life and identity continues to resonate with readers around the world.
Wangari Maathai, born in 1940 and passed away in 2011, made history as the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. She was a renowned environmental activist and advocate for sustainable development and women's rights.
Last but not least, Angela Davis, born in 1944, continues to make history as a civil rights activist, author, and professor. She has been a prominent voice in the fight for racial and gender equality for decades and her impact on society is immeasurable.
These 20 influential Black women have broken barriers, shattered stereotypes, and left a lasting legacy in their respective fields. Their journeys have inspired progress and their legacies continue to shape society. As we celebrate Women's History Month, let us not forget the remarkable achievements of these remarkable women and honor their extraordinary contributions to our world.
March is Women's History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of women to society. The tradition originated in 1978 when it was just a week-long celebration in March. But over the years, it has evolved into a month-long nationwide recognition of the achievements of women and the fight for gender equality. To kick off this important month, BLACK ENTERPRISE is shining a spotlight on 20 influential Black women who have broken barriers and made a significant impact in their respective fields, from business and politics to the arts and activism. These remarkable women have left a lasting mark on society and have inspired progress and change.
One of these trailblazing women is Harriet Tubman, who was born into slavery in Maryland in 1833. Despite the odds stacked against her, Tubman became a renowned abolitionist and a conductor of the Underground Railroad, helping hundreds of enslaved people escape to freedom. She also served as a spy during the Civil War, making her a true hero in the fight against slavery.
Charlotte E. Ray is another remarkable woman who made history as the first African American woman to earn a law degree and practice law in the United States. She graduated from Howard University Law School in 1872 and paved the way for future generations of Black women in the legal field.
Madam C.J. Walker, born in 1867, became the first self-made African American female millionaire. She achieved this incredible feat by developing a successful line of hair care products specifically designed for Black women, revolutionizing the beauty industry.
Mary McLeod Bethune, born in 1875, was an influential educator and civil rights leader. She founded a school that would eventually become Bethune-Cookman University and also served as an advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Bessie Coleman, born in 1892, made history as the first African American and Native American woman to earn a pilot's license, breaking racial and gender barriers in the field of aviation. Despite facing discrimination and obstacles, she persevered and became a pioneer in the world of flight.
Hattie McDaniel, born in 1893, was the first African American woman to win an Academy Award. She received the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Gone with the Wind" in 1940, paving the way for future Black actresses in Hollywood.
Gwendolyn Brooks, born in 1917, was the first African American woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1950. She was celebrated for her impactful work in literature, which explored themes of race, identity, and social justice.
Shirley Chisholm, born in 1924, made history in 1968 as the first Black woman to be elected to Congress. She served 7 terms representing New York's 12th district and was a fierce advocate for civil rights and gender equality.
Toni Morrison, born in 1931, broke new ground in 1993 as the first African American woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. Her powerful and poignant works explored the complexities of Black life and identity.
Wangari Maathai, born in 1940, was the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. She was recognized for her environmental activism and her work in promoting sustainable development and women's rights.
And finally, Angela Davis, born in 1944, is a prominent activist and scholar who has dedicated her life to fighting for social and political change. She is a symbol of resilience and perseverance, and her activism continues to inspire and empower others.
These are just a few of the incredible Black women who have made history and continue to inspire us today. As we celebrate Women's History Month, let us recognize and honor the numerous contributions and achievements of women throughout history. Their legacies have shaped society and will continue to inspire future generations.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
