America's first self-made female millionaire
Madam C. J. Walker rose from humble beginnings to become America's first self-made female millionaire. As a beauty industry pioneer, she revolutionized hair care for African-American women, creating products that addressed their unique needs. Through her innovative business model, she empowered women by providing them with employment and economic independence. Beyond her successful business, Walker was also a passionate philanthropist and advocate for civil rights.
Click on to explore the inspiring life of Madam C. J. Walker.
Origins
Born Sarah Breedlove on December 23, 1867, in Delta, Louisiana, she was the daughter of formerly enslaved parents. Pictured here is an example of the kind of home she likely grew up in.
Orphaned young
Her mother passed away in 1872, likely from cholera, as an epidemic spread with river passengers up the Mississippi, reaching Tennessee and nearby areas in 1873. Her father remarried but died a year later.
Religion
Walker was a devout Christian, and her faith had a significant influence on her philanthropy. She was an active member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Poor scalp health
Walker experienced severe dandruff, baldness, and scalp ailments due to harsh products, poor diet, illness, and limited hygiene during a time when most lacked indoor plumbing and electricity.
Becoming a business
Seeing how well her product worked, Walker turned her haircare products into a business in 1905 when she moved to Denver, Colorado.
Successful products
Her Walker System included a shampoo, pomade, and other products for healthy hair, with her first successful product being Madam Walker's Wonderful Hair Grower.
Factory and training school
She further expanded her business by building a factory and training school in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Empowering business model
Walker's innovative business model empowered African-American women by creating job opportunities.
Daughter's role
Her daughter, A'Lelia Walker, played a crucial role in the family business, helping to manage and expand the company. A'Lelia also became a prominent patron of the Harlem Renaissance, supporting artists, writers, and musicians during this cultural movement in the '20s.
NAACP supporter
She was a major donor to the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), which was founded in 1909.
Anti-lynching campaign
Walker also contributed to anti-lynching campaigns and advocated for justice for African-Americans.
Love for luxury
Walker owned the lavish Villa Lewaro in Irvington, New York, a grand symbol of her success.
Posthumous recognition
Walker passed away in 1919 from kidney failure and complications related to hypertension. However, her legacy left an enduring impact on the beauty industry and African-American communities.
Netflix series
Notably, her story was dramatized in the 2020 Netflix series 'Self Made,' starring Octavia Spencer.
