Bessie Coleman was a super brave and adventurous woman who did something really special. She was born on January 26, 1892, and she became known as “Queen Bess,” soaring high in the sky as a pilot. Bessie was the very first woman of African-American and Native-American background to get a pilot’s license. She was also the first American to get an international pilot’s license. That’s like being a pioneer for flying airplanes!

Back in 1921, Bessie had to go all the way to France to learn how to fly because, in America, no flight school would teach a woman of color. This was all par for the American course. But Bessie didn’t let that stop her. She was determined to fly, and she made her dream come true in France.

Bessie Coleman had big dreams. She didn’t just want to fly; she wanted to show other African Americans and women that they could fly too. Bessie hoped to open her own flying school one day. She traveled around, speaking to groups and showing off her flying skills, to inspire kids and adults to get involved in aviation.

Unfortunately, Bessie’s story has a sad ending. In 1926, while she was practicing for one of her famous stunt shows, something went terribly wrong, and she fell from her plane. People later found out that her plane might have been tampered with, which caused the tragic accident. After all, this was the 1920s in America, this sort of thing isn’t impossible to dream true.

Even though Bessie Coleman’s life was cut short, she left a huge mark on the world. In 2006, she was honored by being inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame, which is a big deal. It shows just how important and inspiring she was.

Bessie Coleman teaches us all to chase our dreams, no matter how big they are or how many obstacles we face. She showed that with courage and determination, the sky’s the limit!