1921 – Bessie Coleman Enrolls in French Flight School

On June 14, 1921, Bessie Coleman began training at the Caudron Brothers School of Aviation in France, becoming the first African American woman—and the first Native American woman—to earn a pilot’s license. Denied admission to any flight school in the United States due to both her race and gender, Coleman learned French, traveled overseas, and boldly pursued her dream. Her training was rigorous and dangerous, but she excelled, returning to the U.S. a year later as a media sensation and barnstorming stunt pilot. Coleman used her fame to speak out against racial segregation and refused to perform at venues that discriminated against Black attendees. Her achievements opened doors in aviation for countless others and remain a symbol of defiance, ambition, and excellence against the odds.