Shirley Chisholm was born on November 30, 1924, in Brooklyn, New York. She was the oldest of four daughters born to Charles St. Hill, a factory worker from Guyana, and Ruby Seale, a seamstress from Barbados. Growing up in a working-class neighborhood, Chisholm learned the values of hard work and perseverance from her parents.
Chisholm attended Brooklyn College, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology in 1946. She went on to earn a Master of Arts degree in elementary education from Columbia University in 1952.
After graduating from Columbia University, Chisholm worked as a teacher and later as a director and educational consultant for daycare centers in New York City. She was passionate about improving education for children in underserved communities and advocated for equal access to quality education.
Chisholm's commitment to social justice and equality led her to become involved in local politics. In 1964, she was elected to the New York State Assembly, becoming the second African-American woman to serve in the state legislature.
In 1968, Shirley Chisholm made history when she was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, becoming the first African-American woman to serve in Congress. During her seven terms in office, she advocated for civil rights, women's rights, and economic justice.
In 1972, Chisholm announced her candidacy for the Democratic presidential nomination, becoming the first African-American and the first woman to seek the nomination from a major political party. Despite facing intense discrimination and opposition, Chisholm's campaign inspired women and people of color across the country.
Throughout her political career, Shirley Chisholm faced numerous challenges and controversies. In 1972, she caused a stir when she visited her rival and ideological opposite, George Wallace, in the hospital after he was shot. Chisholm's willingness to engage with those who disagreed with her demonstrated her commitment to dialogue and understanding.
Chisholm also faced criticism within her own party for her outspoken and independent views. Despite facing backlash from some Democrats, she remained true to her principles and continued to fight for equality and justice for all.
Shirley Chisholm was married twice in her lifetime. Her first marriage was to Conrad Chisholm, a Jamaican private investigator. The couple divorced in 1977. In 1980, she married Arthur Hardwick Jr., a former New York State legislator.