Americas · Modern Era

Who was Shirley Chisholm?

The first Black woman elected to the United States Congress, and the first Black candidate to seek a major party's presidential nomination.

Shirley Chisholm (1924–2005) is remembered as a key figure from United States, known for their role: Politician.

Country / regionUnited States · Americas
Known forPolitician
Years1924–2005
BornBrooklyn, New York, United States
DiedOrmond Beach, Florida, United States

Why is Shirley Chisholm important?

Shirley Chisholm stands out in history for a specific reason: Became the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress in 1968. Their story helps place major events, ideas, and cultural change in a wider historical context.

Key achievements

  • Became the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress in 1968
  • Represented New York's 12th congressional district for seven terms from 1969 to 1983
  • Became the first Black candidate for a major party's presidential nomination in 1972
  • Advocated throughout her career for civil rights, women's rights, and economic justice

A fast fact

Chisholm ran for the 1972 Democratic presidential nomination under the slogan 'unbought and unbossed,' becoming the first woman to seek the nomination of a major American political party.

Legacy

Chisholm's groundbreaking political career opened doors for future generations of Black and female politicians in the United States, and her 1972 presidential campaign remains a landmark moment in American political history.

United Statesmodern erarulerswomen in historyactivists

What is Shirley Chisholm best known for?

The first Black woman elected to the United States Congress, and the first Black candidate to seek a major party's presidential nomination.

When and where did Shirley Chisholm live?

Shirley Chisholm was born in Brooklyn, New York, United States (1924–2005) and died in Ormond Beach, Florida, United States.

What is Shirley Chisholm's lasting legacy?

Chisholm's groundbreaking political career opened doors for future generations of Black and female politicians in the United States, and her 1972 presidential campaign remains a landmark moment in American political history.

How can I learn more about Shirley Chisholm?

Use this profile as a starting point, then consult a library, museum, encyclopedia, or primary-source collection for deeper study.