Maggie Lena Walker: Banker, Entrepreneur, and Social Activist (thesis)

Abstract

Few women have achieved the stature in the black community of Richmond, and the United States, as Maggie Lena Walker. In 1903 she founded the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank, becoming the first woman, white or black, to found a bank in the United States. In addition to being President of the bank, she was the head of the Independent Order of St. Luke, a beneficial society that provided insurance and social opportunities for its members. Her mission was to alleviate and reverse the discrimination facing blacks by generating economic growth and proving that blacks were capable. [From Introduction]