Coleman Tencel Wool Turtleneck

Bessie Coleman, 1892-1926

In 1921, Coleman became the first American woman to earn an international pilot license.

After traveling to France to earn her license, since it was not possible for women in the U.S, Coleman returned to America where racial and gender bias prevented her from becoming a commercial pilot. For that reason, her only option was stunt flying. She drew large crowds to her shows, refusing to perform before segregated audiences. The money she made from the shows was raised to found a school to train black aviators. Her goal was to encourage women and African Americans to reach their dreams.