Madam C. J. Walker’s story overflows with courage and determination. Born on the same Louisiana plantation where her parents had been slaves, she chose to see opportunity in her hardship. In her own words: “I got my start by giving myself a start.” Madam Walker would go on to become a self-made millionaire and a pioneer in social marketing.

This mini-lesson is part of the Economics Arkansas iNSPIRE! series and can be used to start a class on a number of related topics including social entrepreneurship, social media, or philanthropy. The included activities will help your students see how even the most limited resources can be used to meet their own entrepreneurial goals.

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