35 Facts About Shirley Chisholm

Early Life and Education

Shirley Chisholm's journey began with humble roots, shaping her into a trailblazer for future generations.

1. Born on November 30, 1924, in Brooklyn, New York, Shirley Anita St. Hill was the eldest of four daughters.
2. Her parents were immigrants; her father hailed from Guyana, and her mother from Barbados.
3. At age five, she was sent to Barbados to live with her grandmother, receiving a British-style education.
4. Returning to Brooklyn at age ten, she attended Girls' High School, excelling academically.
5. She graduated from Brooklyn College in 1946 with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology.

Career Beginnings

Before diving into politics, Chisholm made significant strides in education and social work.

6. She worked as a nursery school teacher and later as a director of two daycare centers.
7. In 1951, she earned a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education from Columbia University.
8. Chisholm served as an educational consultant for New York City's Division of Day Care from 1959 to 1964.
9. Her passion for education led her to join the League of Women Voters, NAACP, and the Urban League.

Political Milestones

Shirley Chisholm's political career was marked by numerous groundbreaking achievements.

10. In 1964, she was elected to the New York State Assembly, serving until 1968.
11. Chisholm became the first African American woman elected to the U.S. Congress in 1968.
12. Representing New York's 12th Congressional District, she served seven terms from 1969 to 1983.
13. She was a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus in 1971.
14. Chisholm co-founded the National Women's Political Caucus in 1971.

Presidential Campaign

Shirley Chisholm made history with her bold bid for the presidency.

15. In 1972, she became the first African American woman to run for a major party's presidential nomination.
16. Her campaign slogan was "Unbought and Unbossed," reflecting her independent spirit.
17. Chisholm faced significant opposition, including from within her own party.
18. Despite the challenges, she won 152 delegate votes at the Democratic National Convention.
19. Her campaign inspired many, breaking barriers for women and minorities in politics.

Advocacy and Legacy

Chisholm's impact extended beyond her political career, leaving a lasting legacy.

20. She championed education, employment, and social justice throughout her career.
21. Chisholm was a vocal advocate for women's rights and reproductive freedom.
22. She fought for the minimum wage increase and improved working conditions.
23. In 1970, she introduced a bill to provide federal funds for childcare services.
24. Chisholm's autobiography, "Unbought and Unbossed," was published in 1970.

Later Life and Honors

Even after retiring from Congress, Chisholm continued to influence and inspire.

25. She taught at Mount Holyoke College and Spelman College in the 1980s.
26. In 1993, President Bill Clinton nominated her for U.S. Ambassador to Jamaica, but health issues prevented her from serving.
27. Chisholm received numerous awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously in 2015.
28. She was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 1993.
29. The Shirley Chisholm State Park in Brooklyn, New York, was named in her honor in 2019.

Cultural Impact

Chisholm's life and work have been celebrated in various forms of media and culture.

30. Her story has been featured in documentaries, books, and academic studies.
31. The 2004 documentary "Chisholm '72: Unbought & Unbossed" chronicles her presidential campaign.
32. In 2020, actress Uzo Aduba portrayed Chisholm in the miniseries "Mrs. America."
33. Chisholm's legacy continues to inspire politicians, activists, and educators.
34. Her famous quote, "If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair," remains a rallying cry for many.

Personal Life

Chisholm's personal life was as dynamic as her public career.

35. She married Conrad Chisholm in 1949, later divorcing and marrying Arthur Hardwick Jr. in 1977.

Shirley Chisholm's Legacy

Shirley Chisholm's impact on American politics and society remains undeniable. As the first African American woman elected to Congress, she shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations. Her bold run for the presidency in 1972 wasn't just symbolic; it challenged the status quo and inspired countless individuals to dream bigger. Chisholm's dedication to education, civil rights, and women's rights showcased her unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Her famous slogan, "Unbought and Unbossed," perfectly encapsulated her fearless spirit and determination. Today, her legacy lives on through the many who continue to fight for the causes she championed. Shirley Chisholm's story reminds us that one person's courage and vision can indeed change the world. Let's honor her memory by continuing to push for a more inclusive and equitable society.