LIFE

Misty Copeland

Misty is the the first African-American performer to be appointed as a principal dancer for American Ballet Theatre. Her gorgeous style has made her a major celeb in the dance world.

Image source

Donyale Luna

In 1966, this beauty queen became the first African-American model to appear on the cover of Vogue, setting the stage for models like Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks.

Image source: Instagram

Oprah Winfrey

We all know Oprah, but did you know she was the first African-American woman to become a multi-millionaire...and later billionaire? She is now one of the most famous and well-respected philanthropists in the world.

 Image source

Dr. Mae Jemison

Dr. Jemison was the first African-American woman to travel into space. Fun fact: She has also appeared in an episode of Star Trek!

Image source 

Shirley Chisholm

Ms. Chisholm was the first African-American woman to be elected to U.S. Congress. Oh, and did we mention she ran for president, too?

 Image source

Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin was the first African American woman (and the first woman overall) to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Talk about earning some R-E-S-P-E-C-T! 

Image source 

Dr. Maya Angelou

One of the most important voices of our generation, Maya Angelou was the first African-American woman to write a nonfiction bestseller, was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize and has received countless awards and honorary degrees. Not familiar with her work? Start with THIS.  

Image source

Gabby Douglas

 This pint-sized powerhouse was the first African-American to win Olympic gold in the Individual All-Around event in Gymnastics. The best part? She did it when she was only 16.

Image source