Delve Into the Lives of Strong African American Women Throughout History Who Have Inspired All of Us
Bessie Coleman was a civil aviator who went down in history as the first female African American pilot and the first African American to hold an international pilot license.
Known in the aviation community as “Queen Bess” she typically flew Curtiss JN-4 “Jenny” biplanes and army surplus aircrafts left over from the war. Her first appearance in an American airshow was in September of 1922 while at an event honoring veterans of the all-black 369th Infantry Regiment of World War I.
“Because of Bessie Coleman,” wrote Lieutenant William J. Powel in Black Wings 1934, dedicated to Coleman, “we have overcome that which was worse than racial barriers. We have overcome to barriers within ourselves and dared to dream.”
Check out this jet setter outfit inspired by “Queen Bess”. The bomber jacket and bomber tote combined with the aviator sunglasses are the perfect way to channel your inner pilot. Don’t forget your airplane charm for the final touch!
1. DKNY Knit Trim Leather Bomber Jacket, Nordstrom $218.98 2. 14K Gold Charm 3D Airplane, Macys $126.65 3. Prada ‘Pilot’ 54mm Sunglasses, Nordstrom $310 4. Prada Tessuto Bomber Tote, Saks Fifth Avenue $1300
Photo: Wikimedia Commons – www.ctie.monash.edu.au
TAGS: black history month