Who is Bessie Coleman?

When we talk about black history, it is almost impossible not to highlight some phenomenal women in black history who have done wondrous things back in the 80’s.

The first African-American woman to hold a pilot’s license. 

When we choose to define vigor, commitment and sacrifice in a woman, Bessie Coleman certainly stands as an amazing example.

She was born on the soil of America in 1892 into a family of cotton farmers. She went on to attend the university and afterwards, developed the resilience and spirit to be a pilot.

Amidst many things the society once dictated including an utter submission to the fact that women were not allowed to broaden their horizons further than education. Betty understood completely that she wanted more for herself and was willing to go far and wide for it.

She began to pursue her dream in America and after applying to the school of aviation, she was rejected as a student in the United States. 

Deciding she wasn’t just about to throw in the towel yet, she made the commitment to study French in the aim to leave for France to pursue her dream. Oh and yes it did pay off! She was eventually admitted into the Federation Aeronautique Internationale and graduated in the year 1921.

Upon her return to the United States, she re-entered society to become a commercial pilot but alas she was once again rejected! A number of reasons including gender bias and color discrimination were ruled out as clauses as to why she couldn’t be a pilot. 

Nevertheless, her zeal and determination towards her dream fueled and she went on to become a pilot doing “stunt flying” for air shows in 1922. She eventually became the first American-African woman to make a public flight! 

She was nicknamed brave Bessie and Queen Bess by the public as a result of her charisma. 

Until next time dear reader…