Bessie Coleman

First African-American & Native American Woman to Earn Pilot’s License Bessie Coleman

This week, Sam brings us the story of Bessie Coleman, the world-famous stunt pilot!

Bessie Coleman dreamed of being a pilot, but there were no flight schools in the United States that accepted female pilots—let alone black & native women. Eventually, a Chicago newspaper published an article about her dreams, and her schooling was bankrolled by fellow community members who wanted to see her live her dream. She went to Europe and earned a pilot’s license—and some notoriety—before coming back to the states. Check out the episode to hear more about her incredible journey!