Elizabeth Coleman (January 26, 1892 – April 30, 1926) was a pioneering American civil aviator, recognized as the first African-American woman and first Native American to hold a pilot's license. Born to a family of sharecroppers in Texas, she faced significant challenges in pursuing her education and aviation dreams, walking four miles each day to her segregated school. Coleman's determination led her to move to Chicago and work tirelessly to save money for flight school in France, where she became the first black woman and Native American to earn an aviation pilot's license. Embracing the challenging world of air shows, she earned the monikers "Queen Bess" and "Brave Bessie." Tragically, her life was cut short in a plane crash in 1926. Despite her untimely death, Coleman's pioneering achievements inspired future aviators and left a lasting impact on the African-American and Native American communities. Her legacy continues to be celebrated as a symbol of courage and determination in the face of adversity.

Bessie Love, born Juanita Horton, was an American-British actress known for her portrayal of innocent young girls and wholesome leading ladies in silent and early sound films. Her career spanned nearly seven decades, encompassing silent film, sound film, theatre, radio, and television. Love's performance in "The Broadway Melody" (1929) earned her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress. Born in Midland, Texas, Love's family later settled in Hollywood, where she pursued her acting career. Under personal contract with pioneering film director D.W. Griffith, Love was given her stage name and made her first film appearance in "Intolerance" (1916). Throughout her career, Love sought diverse roles, playing Asian women, a drug-addicted mother, and an underworld flapper. She also popularized the Charleston dance in the United States through her performance in "The King on Main Street" (1925). In the sound era, Love continued her success as a musical comedy star and ventured into stage work. Despite facing career challenges, she persevered and continued to evolve as an actress.

Bessie Amelia Emery Head (6 July 1937 – 17 April 1986) was a South African writer, renowned as Botswana's most influential literary figure, known for her novels, short fiction, and autobiographical works. Born in Pietermaritzburg, Union of South Africa, to a white mother and a black father during a time when interracial relationships were illegal, Head faced a tumultuous childhood. Raised with a strict foster mother and later attending an Anglican boarding school, she endured significant turmoil when she was informed of her true parentage. Despite these challenges, she completed her education and began her career as a teacher before transitioning to journalism, working for the weekly Golden City Post in Cape Town. She later moved to Johannesburg to continue her writing career. Throughout her life, Head grappled with spiritual questioning and reflection, which is evident in her notable works such as When Rain Clouds Gather (1968), Maru (1971), and A Question of Power (1973). Her literary contributions continue to inspire and resonate with readers worldwide.

Bessie Blount, born Bessie Virginia Griffin on November 24, 1914, in Hickory, Virginia, was a multifaceted American figure known for her contributions as a writer, nurse, physical therapist, inventor, and forensic scientist. Growing up in the Hickory community, Blount's early education was at Diggs Chapel, a one-room schoolhouse established by the local Black community after the Civil War. Despite limited resources, she pursued learning and eventually obtained her GED in New Jersey, where she also pursued nursing and physical therapy education. Blount's career as a physical therapist during World War II led her to develop innovative assistive devices for amputees, including an electric self-feeding apparatus and a neck frame for patients. Despite facing challenges in having her inventions recognized, her pioneering work significantly impacted the field of assistive technology. Later in her life, Blount transitioned to a career in forensic science, conducting research for law enforcement agencies in New Jersey and Virginia. Her remarkable abilities and innovative spirit left a lasting legacy, demonstrating that perseverance and creativity can lead to groundbreaking contributions. Bessie Blount's impact on healthcare, technology, and forensic science continues to inspire and influence future generations.

Bessie Banks, born Bessie White on February 8, 1938, is a celebrated American rhythm and blues and soul singer. Hailing from New Bern, North Carolina, she later grew up in Brooklyn, New York City. Bessie's illustrious career commenced in the mid-1950s when she joined the quartet, Three Guys and a Doll. She garnered significant attention with her solo efforts, including the 1963 hit "Do It Now" on Spokane Records, reaching #40 on the Billboard R&B chart. Notably, her original recording of "Go Now" in 1964 gained widespread recognition, although it was later popularized by the UK band, the Moody Blues. Despite the challenges and setbacks faced during the English Invasion, Bessie Banks's musical legacy continues to leave an indelible mark. In 2007, her recordings were featured in the compilation "Larry Banks' Soul Family Album" by Ace Records. Bessie's enduring passion for music is evident as she still indulges in gospel music performances. Her remarkable journey cements her status as an influential figure in the music industry.[Word count: 177]