Pioneering Women and Early Government Leaders

Fighting for Equality

Two inspirational women - Isabella Bomfree (“Sojourner Truth”) (1797-1883) and Harriet Tubman (1820-1913) - represent the efforts of innumerable others in their quests to free people who had been enslaved and promoted racial equality. Both women dedicated their lives to ensuring that all people receive the same basic rights and freedoms, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or gender.

Ida B. Wells (1862-1931) continued the legacies of Sojourner Truth and Harriet Tubman, dedicating her life to teaching others about the injustices facing women and African Americans.

The United States commemorated the efforts of these women with the issue of several postage stamps.

To learn more about African-American history visit “The Black Experience: African Americans on Postage Stamps.”