Carlotta Walls LaNier, the youngest member of the Little Rock Nine, broke racial barriers as one of the first African-American students to attend Little Rock Central High School in 1957. Despite facing intense opposition and a bomb attack on her home, LaNier’s determination paved the way for future generations of African-Americans to access quality education. Her remarkable journey and advocacy for equal opportunities continue to inspire social progress.

Fannie Lou Hamer, a prominent civil rights activist, dedicated her life to fighting for racial and gender equality. Despite facing poverty and discrimination, she persevered and became actively involved in voter registration drives and community organizing efforts. Hamer co-founded the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party and played a vital role in organizing Mississippi’s Freedom Summer. Her legacy as an advocate for justice and empowerment continues to inspire future generations.

Mildred McWilliams “Millie” Jeffrey was an American political and social activist who played a crucial role in various reform movements, including labor reforms, women’s rights, and civil rights. Known for her dedication and relentless pursuit of justice, Jeffrey left an indelible mark on American history.

Amy Hester “Hetty” Reckless (1776–1881) was an influential figure in the American abolitionist movement and a key supporter of the Underground Railroad. Born into slavery in Salem, New Jersey, she overcame the cruelty of her owners to eventually escape to Philadelphia in 1826. Hetty became a founding member of the Philadelphia Female Anti-Slavery Society and played a crucial role in promoting abolitionist ideas. Her dedication to social justice and her tireless efforts in supporting the cause made her an influential leader in the abolitionist community.

Annie Lee Wilkerson Cooper was born in racially segregated Selma, Alabama, in 1909. She defied the limitations imposed on African-Americans and became a prominent civil rights activist. From standing up against racial segregation in her restaurant to registering to vote and participating in the historic Selma to Montgomery marches, Cooper’s unwavering courage and resilience left an indelible mark on the fight for racial justice. She passed away in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy and inspiration.

Elizabeth Freeman, also known as Bet or Mum Bet, was the first enslaved African American to file and win a freedom suit in Massachusetts. Her courageous fight for freedom and the subsequent ruling by the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court marked a significant milestone in the struggle for emancipation and the abolition of slavery in the United States.

Lucretia Mott was an American Quaker, abolitionist, women’s rights activist, and social reformer. She dedicated her life to advocating for the rights and equality of marginalized groups, including women and African Americans. Her passion for women’s rights was ignited when she was excluded from the World Anti-Slavery Convention held in London in 1840. Mott played a significant role in the establishment of educational institutions that benefitted women and remained a central figure in various reform movements until her death in 1880. Her tireless efforts and unwavering dedication continue to inspire generations of activists and advocates for social justice.

Margaret Higgins Sanger, later known as Margaret Sanger Slee, was born on September 14, 1879, in Corning, New York. She grew up in a large, Catholic family and her childhood experiences greatly influenced her later work as a birth control activist and women’s rights advocate. Her mother, Anne Higgins, was a devout Catholic who had 18 pregnancies in 22 years, with 11 children surviving to adulthood. Sanger’s mother’s frequent pregnancies and the hardships they brought upon the family made a lasting impression on her.

Sarah Allen, also known as Mother Allen, was an American abolitionist and missionary for the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Born into slavery, she found freedom in Philadelphia and married Richard Allen, the founder of the AME Church. Sarah played a crucial role in establishing the church and supporting its growth. She also actively participated in the Underground Railroad, providing shelter and assistance to runaway slaves. Sarah’s dedication to the AME Church and the fight against slavery left behind a legacy of resilience, faith, and activism.

Theresa Burroughs was a key figure in the civil rights movement, fighting for voting rights for African Americans in the 1960s. Growing up in Alabama, she witnessed the injustices faced by her community and dedicated her life to making a change. Burroughs played a pivotal role in the historic events in Selma, Alabama, and her unwavering commitment to equality left a lasting impact on society.

Henrietta Lacks, born Loretta Pleasant in 1920, had a profound impact on medical research. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout her life, Lacks is best known as the unwitting donor of the HeLa cell line, which revolutionized science and medicine. Her enduring legacy serves as a testament to the important role that individuals, like Lacks, can play in shaping the future of medicine.

Gloria Blackwell, also known as Gloria Rackley, was an African-American civil rights activist and educator. She played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement in Orangeburg during the 1960s, challenging racial segregation and inspiring others to fight for equality. Despite facing personal loss and adversity, she continued to pursue education and empowerment. Blackwell’s activism brought her both praise and criticism, but she remained resilient and determined, leaving a lasting impact on American history.

Ella Josephine Baker was an African-American civil rights and human rights activist who played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement. Known for her dedication to grassroots organizing and empowering the oppressed, Baker worked alongside prominent civil rights leaders, challenging the notion of charismatic leadership and advocating for radical democracy. Her influence on the movement was significant, and she is considered one of the most important American leaders of the twentieth century.

Elizabeth Key Grinstead was a pioneer figure in early American history, advocating for the rights of enslaved individuals. Born in 1630 in Warwick County, Virginia, Key challenged the institution of slavery and secured her own freedom, becoming one of the first black women in the Thirteen Colonies to do so. Her landmark legal victory and its subsequent legislation made a significant impact on the future of slavery in the English colonies.