The world knew her as “Aunt Jemima,” but her given name was Nancy Green and she was a true American success story. She was born a slave in 1834 Montgomery County, KY, and became a wealthy superstar in the advertising world, as its first living trademark
Green was 56-yrs old when she was selected as spokesperson for a new ready-mixed, self-rising pancake flour and made her debut in 1893 at a fair and exposition in Chicago. She demonstrated the pancake mix and served thousands of pancakes… and became an immediate star. She was a good storyteller, her personality was warm and appealing, and her showmanship was exceptional.
Her exhibition booth drew so many people that special security personnel were assigned to keep the crowds moving. Nancy Green was signed to a lifetime contract, travelled on promotional tours all over the country, and was extremely well paid.
Her financial freedom and stature as a national spokesperson enabled her to become a leading advocate against poverty and in favour of equal rights for folks in Chicago. She was one of the very first black millionaires when she died.
General Mills bought her name and likeness from her. She maintained her job until her death in 1923, at age 89. I would bet most protesters know absolutely nothing about Nancy Green. Nancy Green was a remarkable woman… and she has just been ERASED.
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