✈️ Learn about Bessie Coleman, the first Black and Native American woman to earn a pilot’s license. | Smithsonian Channel Aviation Nation

Bessie Coleman may have had a short time on Earth, but in her 34 years she made major impacts on American history. The first Black and first Indigenous American, female pilot in the U.S., "Brave Bessie" needed to travel to France to attend flight school. She then returned to show America that women in planes could be known for flips, stunts, and fearlessly standing up for what's right. Bessie notably refused to perform at locations that wouldn't admit people of her race, and very openly gave enc

On June 15, 1921, Bessie Coleman became the first Black and Native American woman to earn a pilot's license. Bessie was a pioneer and inspiration to early pilots in the African American and Native American communities. She paved the way for female aviators everywhere including United First Officer Carole Hopson. 100 years later Carole honors Bessie's legacy with a goal of enrolling 100 Black women in flight school. | United

Bessie Coleman was the first African-American woman and first Native American to hold a pilot license. After leaving #LangstonUniversity after a short stint, she earned her license on June 15, 1921 and became first Black person to earn an international pilot's license. With an all-Black female flight crew, American Airlines and Barbie worked together to surprise customers with a Bessie Coleman doll from the Barbie Inspiring Women line to celebrate Bessie's birthday. #BHM #BlackHistory #BlackHist