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Student Article

Bessie Coleman: The Fearless Pilot Who Broke Barriers in the Sky

By: Jonny Wilkes
Originally Published in  HistoryExtra

Determined to rise above racism and sexism, Bessie Coleman became the first Black and Native American woman to earn a pilot's license and inspire generations of aviators.

The article "Bessie Coleman: The Fearless Pilot Who Broke Barriers in the Sky" from BBC's HistoryExtra is a powerful story of determination. It explores how Bessie Coleman, born into poverty and facing racial and gender discrimination, traveled to France to earn her pilot’s license and became a celebrated stunt pilot. Her mission: to inspire others of color to take flight and dream big.
Student Article Info

BBC's HistoryExtra is devoted to both British and world history and aimed at readers of all levels of knowledge and interest. Learn more about subscriptions here.

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Illustration of a person repairing the front spinner of a high-wing monoplane
© Getty

Most passages are available in three different versions: Level 1 (Grade 3-5), Level 2 (Grade 6-8), and Level 3 (Grade 9-12). Some more complex texts are available only in Level 2 and Level 3. Use the versions that are most appropriate for the students in your class.

Note: The BBC Learning Hub Editorial Team made use of AI tools to create multiple versions of this article, each tailored to different student reading levels. Every version undergoes a thorough review by our BBC Learning editors to ensure accuracy, quality, and appropriateness.

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Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 900L–1050L
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Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 1100L–1250L
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