The first self-made female millionaire
Madam C. J. Walker was born to former slaves and created a black beauty business.
Witness History · BBC World Service
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Show Notes
Madam C. J. Walker was the first ever self-made female millionaire. She was born to former slaves in the USA and was orphaned at seven but against all the odds she went on to create her own business selling black hair-care products. By the time of her death in 1919 she'd become a famous philanthropist and civil rights campaigner. Claire Bowes has been speaking to her great great granddaughter A'Lelia Bundles.
Photo: Madam Walker Family Archives/A'Lelia Bundles