Madam C. J. Walker

One of the most successful African American entrepreneurs of the early twentieth century, Madam C. J. Walker created a line of phenomenally popular hair care and beauty products that fueled a business empire. In 1905, after devising a restorative formula that was used in combination with her improved steel hot comb to treat thinning and damaged hair, she began marketing her products and beauty regimen to the black community. During a troubled period in the history of race relations in America, Walker built a lucrative enterprise that employed thousands who served as her agents or manufactured her beauty aids. By the time of her death, she was reputed to be the first female African American millionaire.
This portrait by famed African American photographer Addison N. Scurlock became Walker’s trademark image. It was featured on packaging for her products and used extensively in her advertising.