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Influential talk show host, author, philanthropist, actress and media personality. Oprah Winfrey has played a key role in modern American life, shaping cultural trends and promoting various liberal causes. Through her talk shows and books, she has focused on many issues facing American women. She has been an important role model for black American women, breaking down many invisible barriers.
Oprah Winfrey won Miss Black Tennessee in 1971. The judges asked her what she'd do with a million dollars, and she answered, "I'd be a spending fool!" She went on to compete in the Miss Black America contest.
January 29, 1954
Mississippi, United States
The bulk of Winfrey’s grantmaking has gone to educational causes, including charter schools, programs that support African-American students, and the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy in South Africa.
Media executive, actress, talk show host, television producer and philanthropist via Oprah Winfrey Show, Harpo Productions and Oprah Winfrey Network.
Oprah attended Tennessee State University on a full scholarship she had won in a public-speaking competition. She majored in Speech Communications and Performing Arts.
Oprah Winfrey is the first black woman billionaire and the richest African-American woman. She is also referred to by many as the most influential woman in the world. In 2013, Winfrey was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom (the nation's highest civilian honor) by President Barack Obama.
African America