Black women have long been at the forefront of history, breaking barriers, pioneering movements and shaping the world. From civil rights activists to scientific innovators, these trailblazers have left an undeniable mark on society. Here are 10 of the most influential Black women who changed the world.
Black Women Who Changed the World
Harriet Tubman (1822–1913) – The Moses of Her People
Harriet Tubman was a fearless abolitionist who escaped slavery and dedicated her life to leading others to freedom through the Underground Railroad. She made an estimated 13 trips and freed around 70 enslaved individuals, all while evading capture. Tubman also served as a Union spy during the Civil War, using her knowledge of covert operations to aid the North. After the war, she continued to fight for equality by advocating for women’s suffrage and helping formerly enslaved individuals find housing and employment. Her unwavering courage and determination has cemented her as one of the most significant figures in American history.
Madam C.J. Walker (1867–1919) – America’s First Self-Made Female Millionaire
Madam C.J. Walker, born Sarah Breedlove, revolutionized the beauty industry for Black women by developing a specialized line of hair care products. She overcame poverty and limited opportunities to build a thriving business, employing thousands of Black women as sales agents. Her success made her the first self-made female millionaire in the U.S. Walker also used her wealth to support civil rights initiatives, fund scholarships and donate to Black colleges. Her legacy continues today through the beauty industry and entrepreneurial spirit she inspired among Black women.
Rosa Parks (1913–2005) – The Mother of the Civil Rights Movement
Rosa Parks became an icon of the Civil Rights movement when she refused to give up her seat to a white passenger on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1955. Her courageous act led to the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a pivotal event that helped dismantle segregation laws in the South. Parks was not just a woman who made a spontaneous decision. She had been a longtime NAACP activist, working for racial justice well before her famous protest. Her lifelong commitment to equality and justice has left an enduring impact on the fight for civil rights in America.
Katherine Johnson (1918–2020) – NASA’s Hidden Figure
Katherine Johnson was a brilliant mathematician whose calculations helped launch the first U.S. astronauts into space. Despite facing racial and gender discrimination, she played a crucial role in major NASA missions, including John Glenn’s successful orbit around Earth in 1962. Johnson’s mathematical genius ensured safe space travel and contributed to the success of the Apollo missions. Her story was widely recognized through the book and film “Hidden Figures,” inspiring a new generation of women and people of color to pursue careers in STEM fields. She was later awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her groundbreaking work.
Shirley Chisholm (1924–2005) – The First Black Woman in Congress
Shirley Chisholm made history in 1968 as the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress. She served seven terms, advocating for education, labor rights, and racial and gender equality. In 1972, she became the first Black woman to run for President of the United States, challenging the political establishment with her campaign slogan, “Unbought and Unbossed.” Chisholm’s fearless pursuit of justice paved the way for future Black women in politics, proving that barriers are meant to be broken. Her legacy continues to influence leaders who fight for social change and political representation.
Angela Davis (1944–Present) – Revolutionary Activist and Scholar
Angela Davis is a political activist, scholar, and author known for her role in the Black Power and Civil Rights movements. She was a vocal advocate for prison abolition and racial justice, which led to her being targeted by the FBI in the 1970s. Davis’ activism extended to feminist and LGBTQ+ rights, making her a powerful force in the fight against systemic oppression. As a professor and public speaker, she continues to educate and inspire new generations of activists, emphasizing the importance of collective resistance in the pursuit of freedom and equality.
Oprah Winfrey (1954–Present) – The Media Mogul
Oprah Winfrey is one of the most influential women in media history. Rising from a challenging childhood marked by poverty and adversity, she became the first Black woman billionaire and the host of “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” one of the most successful talk shows ever. Oprah has used her platform to champion education, philanthropy and Black storytelling in media. She founded the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa and continues to uplift Black voices in film, literature and television. Her impact on culture, media and representation is unparalleled.
Michelle Obama (1964–Present) – The First Black First Lady of the United States
Michelle Obama made history in 2008 as the first Black First Lady of the United States. She used her role to advocate for education, health, and military families, launching initiatives, such as Let’s Move! to combat childhood obesity and Reach Higher to encourage higher education. Her memoir, “Becoming,” became a best-selling book, inspiring millions worldwide. Michelle’s grace, intelligence and commitment to uplifting marginalized communities has solidified her legacy as a role model for Black women and young girls aspiring to break barriers in any field.
Serena Williams (1981–Present) – Tennis Champion and Advocate
Serena Williams is widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time, with 23 Grand Slam singles titles. She has shattered records, redefined excellence in tennis and advocated for equal pay in sports. Off the court, Williams is a strong advocate for Black maternal healthcare, having shared her own near-death experience during childbirth. She has also built a fashion empire, embracing and celebrating Black beauty. Williams continues to inspire with her resilience, dominance in sports and commitment to empowering women and the Black community.
Tarana Burke (1973–Present) – Founder of the #MeToo Movement
Tarana Burke founded the Me Too movement to support survivors of sexual violence, particularly Black women and girls. While the movement gained mainstream recognition in 2017, Burke had been working tirelessly for decades to amplify the voices of those affected by sexual abuse. She has helped reshape the conversation around consent, power and accountability, pushing for systemic change. Through her activism, she has provided healing spaces for survivors and brought global attention to the pervasiveness of sexual violence. Burke’s work continues to be a powerful force in the fight for justice and equality.