February is Black History Month – a time to celebrate Black Americans' achievements contributions to U.S. society. Unfortunately, not all heroes receive the recognition that's due to them, including these eleven outstanding men and women.

Continue to learn more about these unsung Black American heroes.

Annie Turnbo Malone

Annie Turnbo Malone became a millionaire during the 1920s by creating and selling haircare products for Black women. Aside from her success in business, Malone frequently donated money to struggling families and organizations dedicated to advancing life for African-Americans.

Benjamin Singleton

Following his escape from slavery, Benjamin Singleton was an abolitionist that led thousands of people to Kansas to start towns that were owned and operated by Black people. He was also vocal about the importance of Black-owned businesses.

Phillip Payton, Jr.

Real estate mogul Phillip Payton, Jr. encouraged Black residents to move to Harlem, New York, to avoid overcrowding and racism. Payton is partially responsible for Harlem becomimg a hub for African-American art and culture.

Robert Smalls

Robert Smalls' role in the Civil War led to President Abraham Lincoln allowing Black men into the Union Army. Smalls later wrote legislation that created the first free public school system in South Carolina.

Shirley Chisholm

Shirley Chisholm was the first Black Congresswoman in the United States. She was also a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and later ran for president in 1972.

Bessie Coleman

Bessie Coleman was an aviator known by the nickname “Queen Bess.” She traveled to Europe, leaving behind a life of poverty, to learn how to become a pilot and has inspired countless numbers of African-American girls in the United States.

Daisy Bates

Daisy Bates, along with her husband, founded the Arkansas State Press. She was also a chapter president for the NAACP and was an escort for the Little Rock Nine during integration of schools in Arkansas.

Martin Delany

Martin Delaney was an activist and one of the first African-Americans to attend Harvard Medical School alongside two other men. In addition to treating cholera patients in Pittsburgh, he also served as the Army's first Black field officer during the Civil War.

Maxine Waters

Maxine Waters played a significant role in ending the Apartheid regime in South Africa. She currently serves as a Congresswoman for the 43rd District of California.

Oscar Micheaux

Known as one of the greatest filmmakers of the silent era, Oscar Micheaux wrote and directed over 40 films between 1919 and 1948. Although many of his films were lost, he was well-known for his use of strong Black heroes and putting mixed-race romances on screen.

Susie King Taylor

Susie King Taylor taught herself to read and opened a school after her escape from slavery. She was a laundress and a nurse for Union forces and is the only Black woman to have written a biography of the Civil War.