Mary Ellen Pleasant: A Life Of African-American Leaders

African-Americans are one of the most underestimated races in the United States. As there are leaders that have guided the country into its success that it is today. Of course, there are a few that had been put on the forefront as to what they have been through and what they have done for the country to change the guidelines of policy in it forever. Although there are many stories of triumph that have been told over for years, there are more leaders that have added and shared in the success also. There are hundreds of African-American authority figures that did not have the opportunity to have their work and accomplishments broadcasted and taught all over the world. They have conquered major obstacles and have paid their dues for the respect of their race, but have gone on with little to no acknowledgement and their legacy lives at a quiet stance through time. Mary Ellen Pleasant was an African American woman who did not use her struggle as a crutch, but as stepping stones to the leader she aspired to be. Pleasant’s success through her life, policies, and influence helped to continue the legacy she has today. Mary …show more content…
When she sued a taxi for not giving her a ride, she had won. Free African-Americans were not to be dismissed under that streetcar company. She influenced the career of social work because when she was in California and found former slave jobs and a place to live all over the city of San Francisco for their well-being. Mary Ellen Pleasant was an ambitious woman and she was willing to help her African-American people to the best of her abilities. She had risked her life over and over again, but it never stopped her from what she was trying to achieve. Although she was fully recognized in today’s forefront of black history, like many others, she still was one that made a huge impact on what it means to be an African-American