Black History Month: Madame C.J. Walker

On Her Own Ground: the life and times of Madame C.J. Walker, by A’Lelia Bundles (the great-great-granddaughter of Walker), is the inspiring story of Sarah Breedlove, born in Louisiana in 1867, and who became the first female millionaire in the United States by starting a beauty business featuring hair products for black women.  Orphaned at age seven and married at 14 to escape an abusive brother-in-law,she overcame poverty,illiteracy, and widowhood at age 20  to work diligently to support her young daughter. She eventually built a factory and training school and fought for anti-lynching legislation and equal rights. This admirable lady contributes much to black history and her hard work and commitment to her community is well worth reading about.

For more on Walker’s business success and personal life, the author has a website filled with great links and videos.

 

 

 

Posted in General, Reviews and Recommendations.

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