Madam C. J. Walker Sarah Breedlove ( December 23 , 1867 -- May 25 , 1919 ) , known as Madam C. J. Walker , was an African American entrepreneur , philanthropist , and the first female self-made millionaire in America .
Madam C. J. Walker Sarah Breedlove ( December 23 , 1867 -- May 25 , 1919 ) , known as Madam C. J. Walker , was an American entrepreneur and philanthropist . She was said to be the first female self-made millionaire in America .