Madam C. J. Walker

Madam C. J. Walker, born Sarah Breedlove (December 23, 1867 to May 25, 1919), was an American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and political and social activist. She made her fortune by developing and marketing a line of cosmetics and hair care products for Black women through the business she founded, the Madam C. J. Walker Manufacturing Company. The Guinness Book of World Records recognizes her as the first woman to become a self-made millionaire in America, although multiple sources note that other women, such as Mary Ellen Pleasant, may have been first and that their wealth is less well documented. Walker was also known for her philanthropy and activism, donating to organizations such as the NAACP and becoming a patron of the arts. Her estate, Villa Lewaro in Irvington, New York, served as a social gathering place for the African-American community. At her death she was considered the wealthiest African-American businesswoman and the wealthiest self-made Black woman in America.