Can you imagine a time when women could not vote, access America's most prestigious universities, and receive an education? For centuries, women lived in the shadows of men because they were not allowed to prosper, the only destiny they had for themselves was that of mother and wife. However, one lady broke many barriers and became the first African American woman in the United States to earn a doctorate in chemistry: Mary Maynard Daly. She was an activist in the African-American community and active in several associations, hardworking and proud to fully live her father's legacy with her dynamism and determination. Mary Maynard Daly was born April 16, 1921 in Corona, Queens and was the daughter of the well-educated Ivan C. Daly and Helen Daly. The Dalys were well cultured and educated, but could not fully realize their dreams due to financial complications. So Mary Daily took her parents' effort and made it her personal motivation. Additionally, Daly's grandparents played an important role in her path to triumph, laying down the foundations of chemistry when she was younger. When Daly visited her grandparents who lived in Washington, D.C., she was able to read about scientists and their accomplishments in her grandfather's diverse and informative library. While reading at his grandparents' house, Daly found his scientific muse, a chemist named Paul De Kruif, who made the decision to pursue chemistry as a sure career. Daly later married Vincent Clark in 1961 and decided to move to Florida. Unfortunately, Daly died in 2003 and the cause of her death was unknown. Of course, along the way, Mary Daly had a lot of challenges in reaching her supreme rank, she faced many racial slurs and prejudices became... middle of newspaper...... have changed the world and remained in our history books for eternity. “Women need to harness their power – that’s absolutely true. It's just about learning not to take the first no. And if you can’t go straight, you turn the corner” –Cher. If Daly had taken her first "no" and quit after someone doubted her, she wouldn't have made history. If she believed her goals were impossible, she wouldn't make history. If she had considered some of the backlash she received, she wouldn't have made history. Instead of giving up, she proved many people wrong and once again made a huge impact on our world. Nothing is given to anyone for free in this world, we all have to work for what we want, no matter how difficult it may be. So the next time someone tells you that one person can't make a difference or that you won't achieve your goal, what will you do? ??