Did you know the first successful open-heart surgery was performed in 1893 by a black surgeon named Dr. Daniel Hale Williams? According to Columbia University, he was an American general surgeon, who in 1893 performed the first documented, successful pericardium surgery in America. He also founded Chicago's Provident Hospital, the first non-segregated hospital in the United States and also founded an associated nursing school for African Americans.
Dr. Daniel Hale Williams
Vernice Armour is America's first African American female combat pilot. The Chicago native flew the AH-1W SuperCobra attack helicopter in the 2003 invasion of Iraq and eventually served two tours in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Not bad for a sistah with wings.
Vernice Armour
Horatio J. Homer was Boston's first African-American police officer. He served on the force for 40 years.
Horatio J. Homer