Today, we’re celebrating a hidden figure who broke barriers in the field of economics—Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander. Her story is not just inspirational but also a testament to the resilience and brilliance that African American women have contributed to the American narrative. Breaking barriers, inspiring generations through her achievements, she set a precedent for those who followed.
Who Was Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander?
Born in 1898 in Philadelphia, Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander was a woman of many firsts. She was the first African American woman to earn a Ph.D. in economics in the United States, and she did so from the University of Pennsylvania in 1921. But she didn’t stop there. She went on to become the first African American woman to practice law in Pennsylvania. Her life was a series of groundbreaking achievements, each one breaking barriers, inspiring generations of African American women in academia, law, and public policy.
Early Life and Education
Sadie was born into a family that valued education. Her father, Aaron Mossell, was the first African American to graduate from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. Despite the societal limitations imposed on her because of her race and gender, Sadie excelled academically. She attended the University of Pennsylvania, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Education and her master’s degree in Economics, before going on to earn her Ph.D.
Career and Contributions
Breaking Barriers in Economics and Law
Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander’s career was as diverse as it was impactful. She worked as an actuary, a legal consultant, and even served on several presidential committees. During the Great Depression, she was an advocate for economic policies that would benefit the African American community, emphasizing the importance of equal job opportunities and fair wages.
Advocate for Civil Rights
In 1946, President Harry Truman appointed her to the Committee on Civil Rights, where she played a crucial role in laying the groundwork for the Civil Rights Movement. Her work in economics and law was not just theoretical but had real-world implications that changed the course of American history.
Why She Matters
In a world where African American women were often relegated to the margins, Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander stood as a beacon of what was possible. She broke through racial and gender barriers to excel in fields that were traditionally dominated by white men. Her life serves as an inspiration for African American women today, showing that with perseverance, intelligence, and a commitment to social justice, the sky’s the limit. Her legacy of breaking barriers, inspiring generations continues to motivate and empower.
Financial Lessons We Can Learn
- Invest in Knowledge/Education: Sadie’s family prioritized education, and it paid off. Investing in your education can open doors you never thought possible.
- Diversify Your Skill Set: Sadie was not just an economist; she was also a lawyer and a civil rights activist. The more skills you have, the more opportunities you can create for yourself.
- Advocate for Economic Equality: Sadie used her platform to advocate for economic policies that would benefit marginalized communities. We can all play a part in advocating for economic justice, whether it’s through our careers, our investments, or our daily choices.
Her life is a shining example of breaking barriers, inspiring generations through dedication and unwavering resolve.
Sources
- Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander – University of Pennsylvania Archives
- The Life and Legacy of Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander – Explore PA History
- Sadie T.M. Alexander: A Life of Firsts – The Pennsylvania Gazette
