Today we are looking at Elizabeth ‘Bessie’ Coleman (1892 – 1926) who was the first female African American international pilot. She was also the first American woman to hold a pilot’s license. Bessie Coleman was the grandchild of slaves, her parents were illiterate and her prospects were extremely limited. With passion for education Coleman would read aloud to her family. She promised them that she would amount to something and set her sights on aviation.
At the time there were no Africa American pilots in the area and no white pilots were willing to teach Coleman how to fly. Not letting this stop her, she went to France in 1920 where she completed flight training and was awarded and international pilot’s license. She began travelling through Europe, gaining experience to perform at air shows.
She said it was her mission to open doors for the African American community within the aerospace industry and intended to open an aviation school. She intended to be a leader recognised for her achievements not only within her own community but all over the world. Coleman met a tragic end in 1926 before she could accomplish her dreams. She was thrown from a poorly maintained plane when it flipped over and fell to her death.
Today we recognise the magnificent achievements of Bessie Coleman, overcoming the limits placed on her gender and her race to pave the way for others in the aviation industry.
Every day this week we will be looking at a remarkable woman in aerospace, join our community to keep up-to-date.
Find out more about Bessie Coleman here.
What women do you think have been pioneers in the aviation and space industries?
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