The Woman who has Inspired Future Generations of Future Female Writers

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          Maria P. Williams is known as one of the first African American woman to produce, distribute, and act in her own film, "The Flames of Wrath," in 1923. William is an important power figure to know during the continuation of Black History Month because without her many accomplishments, we probably wouldn't see women such as Oprah Winfrey, Ava DuVernay, Issa Rae, Marsai Martin, and many others in today's time if it wasn't for William's efforts. Without her efforts, I wouldn't have probably find the confidence to become the writer I am and soon to become. In this article, we will learn about the life of Maria P. Williams and the many things she has done within her writing career.

          Williams was born on January 1, 1866 in Versailles, Missouri. When she entered the work force, she was a school teacher until the 1890s. During the 1890s, she participated in politics as a lecturer where she would travel throughout the state of Kanas promoting support to candidates. She would also give out lectures titled, "Topics of the Day." At the same time, Williams was the editor-in-chief of a weekly newspaper in Kansas City, Kansas called, " The New Era," from 1891 to 1894. She would later on publish and edit her own newspaper called, "Women's Voice," from 1896 to 1900. The newspaper was financially supported by "colored women's auxiliary" of the Republican party.

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          Once Maria P. Williams made Kansas City, Missouri her permanent home, she became a social and political activist. In 1916, she would publish a short booklet called, "My Work and Public Sentiment." In the book, Williams describes her life and her political and social views. In 1923, she wrote, produced, and acted out in her movie, "The Flames of Wrath," which was a crime mystery film. The movie was produced through the Western Film Producing Company and Booking Exchange; which her husband, Jesse L. Williams, was president of. During the time, she was also the assistant manager, secretary, and the treasurer for the company.

          Williams would then be murdered on the 3rd of January, 1932 in Kansas City, Missouri by a stranger who had asked for her help with their sick brother. She was found shot to death while laying on the side of the road several miles from her home. The murder has still been unsolved. During her lifetime, she was married twice and there is no mention of ever having any children.

 Biography

Maria P. Williams- Biography

Maria p. Williams- Women Film Pioneers