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Million-Dollar Ideas
With innovative ideas and charismatic personalities, many African-Americans have made lasting contributions to the country, while also earning millions. Oprah Winfrey emerged as a world-famous one-woman brand with her show, eventually becoming the world's first black billionaire. Robert L. Johnson started BET, the cable channel geared towards African-Americans. Athlete Michael Jordan turned into a household name through numerous endorsement deals. These people were among the first African-Americans to overcome the obstacles of discrimination and achieve top honors in their fields. With talent and determination, each one reinvented not only what it meant to be an African-American, but also what it meant to be an American.
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Featured People
See all Million-Dollar Ideas (9)
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Madam C.J. Walker
- In these groups:
- Million-Dollar Ideas
- Famous Black Inventors
- Groundbreaking Women
Madam C.J. Walker
Civil Rights Activist, Entrepreneur / 1867 - 1919
Madam C.J. Walker was the first American woman to become a self-made millionaire. Her business was worth more than $1 million at the time of her death.
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Sheila Johnson
- In these groups:
- Million-Dollar Ideas
- Famous Aquarians
- Famous People Named Johnson
Sheila Johnson
Entrepreneur / 1949 -
Sheila Johnson is an African-American entrepreneur who co-founded Black Entertainment Television (BET) and is part-owner of the three sports teams in the NHL, NBA and the WNBA.
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Robert L. Johnson
- In these groups:
- Million-Dollar Ideas
- African-American Firsts: Film & TV
- Famous Arians
Robert L. Johnson
Entrepreneur / 1946 -
Robert L. Johnson is an American entrepreneur best known as the founder of the BET channel and as the country’s first African-American billionaire.
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Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan
Basketball Player / 1963 -
Michael Jordan is a former American basketball player who led the Bulls to six national championships and earned the NBA Most Valuable Player Award five times.
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George Foreman
George Foreman
Boxer, Entrepreneur, Minister / 1949 -
George Foreman is a retired American boxer who twice won boxing's heavyweight championship. After retiring, he became a popular pitchman.
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Oprah Winfrey
- In these groups:
- Million-Dollar Ideas
- Female Talk Show Hosts
- Weight Loss Winners
Oprah Winfrey
Film Actress, Entrepreneur, Producer, Philanthropist, Talk Show Host, Television Producer / 1954 -
Billionaire Oprah Winfrey has hosted her own internationally popular talk show since 1986. She is also an actress, philanthropist, publisher, and producer.
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