The evolution of women's rights and equality between black and white citizens are two issues that have often crossed paths in history.
This is particularly the case in "The Help", the deeply moving film adapted from the best-selling novel by Kathryn Stockett.
The story follows the fate of two black maids in Jackson, Mississippi, in the 1960s. Armed with courage and determination, they dare to speak of their daily hardship, which is to be revealed in a book that contravenes the segregation laws and reverse the established order.
But while this story is fictional, in reality there have been many bold and brave women in society.
We bring you just ten of the black women who changed history.
Photo: The film "The Help", released in UK cinemas 26th October
