The Fastest Woman in the World - Jackie Cochran

The Fastest Woman in the World

Jackie Cochran became one of the most accomplished pilots in aviation history, holding more speed, distance, and altitude records than any other flyer - man or woman - of her era. In 1953, she became the first woman to break the sound barrier, and in 1964 she pushed the limits even further, surpassing Mach 2.

She also played a decisive role in shaping opportunities for women in aviation. Through persistence and political skill, she persuaded government and military leaders to establish the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP), a program of more than 1,000 female pilots that she led during World War II. These women tested experimental aircraft, ferried thousands of planes between bases, and carried out a wide range of critical duties across the United States - freeing male pilots for combat at a time when women were barred from serving in combat roles.

Beyond the cockpit, Jackie was equally formidable. She founded and ran a nationwide cosmetics company for nearly three decades, traveled extensively around the world, and hosted U.S. and international dignitaries - alongside close friends - at her fabled ranch in the California desert.

It was often said that people either loved her or hated her. She could be a tough critic, set in her ways, and was frequently described as having a personality "like sandpaper." Yet that same unyielding drive carried a nearly illiterate girl from a Florida mill town into the company of presidents, military leaders, and some of the most influential figures of her time.