Unladylike2020: Unsung Women Who Changed America Season 1 Episode 3 Maggie Lena Walker: Civil Rights Activist, Entrepreneur & First African American Woman Bank President

Maggie Lena Walker: Civil Rights Activist, Entrepreneur & First African American Woman Bank President is the third episode of the first season of the show Unladylike2020: Unsung Women Who Changed America. This episode focuses on the life and legacy of Maggie Lena Walker, a trailblazing woman who accomplished many firsts during the early 20th century.

The episode begins by exploring Maggie Lena Walker's childhood in Richmond, Virginia, where she was born in 1864, just one year before the end of the Civil War. Despite growing up in a time of great racial tension and unrest, Maggie was raised in a loving and supportive household that valued education and hard work. She attended a local high school and later enrolled in the Richmond Colored Normal School, where she trained to become a teacher.

After working as a teacher for several years, Maggie became involved in the Independent Order of St. Luke, a fraternal organization for African American women. She quickly rose through the ranks of the organization, eventually becoming its leader in 1899. Under her leadership, the order grew in membership and expanded its reach across the country.

Despite her success with the St. Luke's, Maggie was also keenly aware of the limitations placed on African American women during this time period. She recognized the importance of economic empowerment and became determined to help create opportunities for her community. In 1903, she founded the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank, which was the first African American-owned bank in the United States. Maggie served as the bank's president and oversaw its growth and success for many years.

As the episode continues, viewers learn more about Maggie's involvement in the civil rights movement. She was a vocal advocate for the voting rights of African Americans and worked closely with other leaders of the time, such as W.E.B. Du Bois and Booker T. Washington. Maggie also founded a newspaper, The St. Luke Herald, which provided a platform for African American voices and gave a voice to issues that were often ignored or overlooked by mainstream media.

Despite facing many obstacles and challenges throughout her life, Maggie Lena Walker remained committed to the advancement of her community until her death in 1934. Her legacy lives on today, as she is remembered as a pioneering businesswoman, civil rights leader, and trailblazer for women everywhere.

Overall, Maggie Lena Walker: Civil Rights Activist, Entrepreneur & First African American Woman Bank President is a fascinating and inspiring look at the life of one of America's most important unsung heroes. It sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of an incredible woman who helped to pave the way for future generations of women and people of color.