5 Successful Black Businesswomen In History

Black women entrepreneurs have faced the double barriers of sexism and racism throughout United States history. Despite these challenges, many have achieved remarkable success. Here are five inspiring stories of 19th and early 20th century black businesswomen who overcame adversity and built thriving businesses:

Bridget “Biddy” Mason (c. 1818 – 1891)

Bridget, also known as Biddy, Mason was born a slave in Georgia. Though her owner converted to Mormonism, which encouraged slave emancipation, he initially refused to free Bridget and her family when they reached California, a free state. With courage and determination, Bridget petitioned the court for her freedom, which they granted to her and her three daughters in 1856.

Bridget carefully saved the money she earned working as a nurse and midwife. She invested her earnings wisely, becoming one of the first African Americans to purchase land in Los Angeles. She built a successful real estate business, amassing a small fortune.

Bridget’s generosity was legendary. She used her wealth to donate nearly $300,000 to local charities, offering food and shelter to the poor and visiting prisoners. Today, an exhibit at the Women’s Museum of California in San Diego honors her life and lasting contributions to the community.

Madam C.J. Walker (1867 – 1919)

Madam C.J. Walker, born Sarah Breedlove, was the first woman in America to become a self-made millionaire. Born just after the Emancipation Proclamation, she was the first in her family to be free. Experiencing hair loss at a young age, she developed and marketed her own line of natural hair products specifically for African American hair. Her innovation and entrepreneurial spirit were key to her success.

Madam Walker began selling her products door-to-door, building a loyal customer base. Her business acumen led her to expand into a nationwide mail-order operation. Beyond product sales, Madam Walker empowered other black women by teaching them sales and business skills. At the time of her death in 1919, she was not only the wealthiest black woman in America, but also a major philanthropist, supporting causes like the YMCA, the NAACP, and educational institutions.

Elizabeth Keckley (1818 – 1897)

Elizabeth Keckley’s journey from slave to successful dressmaker, activist, and author is a testament to her resilience and talent. Born into slavery, Elizabeth negotiated her own freedom, purchasing it for $1,200 with money earned from her side hustle as a dressmaker. Her exceptional skills and reputation attracted wealthy patrons who helped finance her freedom.

Keckley moved to Washington D.C., where she established a thriving dressmaking business catering to the wives of prominent government officials. Her client list included Varina Davis, wife of Jefferson Davis, and Mary Anna Custis Lee, wife of Robert E. Lee. Through Mrs. Lee, she met Mary Todd Lincoln, wife of President Abraham Lincoln, and became her personal dressmaker.

Despite the challenges of working with the famously demanding Mrs. Lincoln, Elizabeth and Mary developed a close friendship. Later in life, Elizabeth published a controversial autobiography, “Behind the Scenes: Or, Thirty Years a Slave and Four Years in the White House,” which offered a candid glimpse into her life with the Lincolns.

Elizabeth Keckley used her success to give back to her community. She founded the Contraband Relief Association, providing clothing, food, and shelter to the impoverished black community. Following criticism of her book and a falling out with Mrs. Lincoln, Elizabeth faced financial difficulties later in life. She lived out her final years in a home for disadvantaged women, the National Home for Destitute Colored Women and Children, an organization she had previously supported.

Maggie Lena Walker (1867 – 1934)

Maggie Lena Walker was a pioneering entrepreneur, businesswoman, and social activist. Born in Richmond, Virginia, she began working as a teacher at a young age. Recognizing the need for financial empowerment within the black community, Walker co-founded the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank in 1883, the first bank chartered and staffed by black women in the United States.

Walker served as the bank’s first president for over 40 years, overseeing its growth into a national institution. She was a passionate advocate for financial literacy and encouraged African Americans to save and invest for their futures. Beyond banking, Walker was active in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Independent Order of Saint Luke, a fraternal organization focused on social welfare and community uplift.

Annie Turnbo Malone (1882 – 1957)

Annie Turnbo Malone, a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist, made a significant impact on the beauty industry and the lives of African American women in the early 20th century. Born in Illinois, Malone began her entrepreneurial journey at a young age, developing her own hair care products to address the specific needs of black hair.

Her ambition and dedication to product development led her to establish Poro Company, a mail-order business selling hair care products, cosmetics, and hygiene products specifically designed for black consumers. Malone’s innovative marketing strategies, which included educational pamphlets and beauty advisors, empowered black women to embrace their natural beauty. Poro products were not just about aesthetics; they promoted healthy hair and self-care practices.

Poro Company’s success transcended product sales. Malone established Poro beauty schools across the country, providing employment and educational opportunities for black women. Her commitment to social uplift extended beyond her business. She was a generous philanthropist, donating to educational institutions, orphanages, and organizations supporting black communities. Annie Turnbo Malone’s legacy lives on as a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit, dedication to empowering black women, and commitment to social responsibility.

These five remarkable black businesswomen stand as testaments to perseverance, innovation, and a drive to create opportunities. Despite facing immense challenges due to racism and sexism, they built successful businesses, empowered others, and left a lasting legacy. Their stories continue to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and serve as a reminder of the boundless potential that exists when barriers are broken.