Bessie Coleman was the first African American woman to earn a pilot's license. Born on January 26, 1892, in Atlanta, Texas, she faced significant racial and gender barriers in her pursuit of aviation. To achieve her dream, she traveled to France, where she obtained her license in 1921 from the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale. After becoming a licensed pilot, Coleman became a popular airshow performer, known for her daring stunts and aerial tricks. She used her platform to advocate for racial equality and inspired many to pursue careers in aviation, paving the way for future aviators like Maya Angelou and Charles Lindbergh.