Madam CJ Walker

(http://www.techteens.org/ TTIP99Jan/CJWalker/ pic.htm)

Do you know who the first black female millionaire is? Madam CJ Walker is my hero. In my report you will learn about her personal information, life accomplishments, struggles, and important traits.

Madam CJ Walker was born Sarah Breedlove on December 23, 1867. Sarah was the first member of her family born free. Sarah was married three times. One husband was killed by the Ku Klux Klan, and she divorced the other two. Sarah changed her name to Madam CJ Walker because she thought it sounded dignified.

There were many struggles in Walker’s life. By the age of seven, her parents, Minerva and Owen Breedlove, died of yellow fever. After her parents’ deaths, Sarah (Madam CJ Walker) moved in with her married sister whose husband abused her. When she moved out, women didn’t have the right to vote.

Madam CJ Walker had many life accomplishments. Walker created the first hair products for African Americans. She gave money to organizations to encourage African Americans to be free. She also made the biggest contribution to the NNBL [National Negro Business League]. Madam Walker left money in her will to schools, organizations, and other institutions. Madam Walker built a factory to manufacture her hair goods.

Madam CJ Walker did many things to help African Americans. My hero died at age 51 on May 25, 1919. Even though she died 86 years ago, she still made a difference.