Miss America Season 1 Episode 18 Miss America 1972

Miss America season 1 episode 18, titled "Miss America 1972," takes a look at the historic moment when the pageant's first African American contestant, Cheryl Browne, took the stage. The episode explores the social and political climate of the time, including the civil rights movement and the feminist movement, which were starting to gain traction.

Featured interviews with Browne and other former contestants reveal the behind-the-scenes experiences and challenges they faced during the competition. The episode also showcases Browne's talent performance, in which she delivered a powerful and heartfelt rendition of "Why (The King of Love is Dead)" in honor of Martin Luther King Jr., who had been assassinated just four years earlier.

In addition to Browne's groundbreaking moment, the episode highlights other notable events from Miss America 1972, including Miss Ohio's rendition of "God Bless America" which drew criticism from feminists for perpetuating traditional gender roles. The show also touches on the controversy surrounding the pageant's decision to replace the traditional swimsuit competition with a "sportswear" category, which some argued still objectified women's bodies.

Overall, "Miss America 1972" offers a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal moment in both pageant history and American society at large.