When I first read the prompt question I was going to go with the classic list of my favorite historical figures.

Then I decided I was going to put my favorite historical figures into, groups. For instance my favorite historical artist, my favorite historical writer and so forth.

However, I have decided what makes a person a historical figure. Do we, as a people, decide who historical figures are, or does an individual decide who a historical figure is for themselves?

Overthinking it? Yep, it’s what I do. Lol

A historical figure is, and I quote, “someone from the past whose actions or legacy have significantly impacted society, culture, or the development of humanity.

But I liked this last part –

A historical figure is a person who, while living in the past, continues to be relevant and influential in the present.

Here are some more details on what makes a person a historical figure

Impact on Society – impacting the lives of people

Cultural Significance – The contribute to the development of art, literature, music.

Political Influence

Scientific or Technological Advancements

Legacy – Their actions or ideas are still studied, discussed, or remembered today.

Real Person

Events or Changes They Triggered

I have the person in mind her name was

Henrietta Lacks

She was born on August 1, 1920, and died on October 4, 1951. She was an African American Woman whose cancer cells have saved countless lives.

She was being treated for cervical cancer, and the doctors took a biopsy of the tumor. Unbeknownst to Henrietta and her family, her cells were cultured.

“Hers was the first immortalized human cell line and one of the most important cell lines in medical research.” An immortalized cell line reproduces indefinitely under specific conditions, and the HeLa cell line remains a valuable source of medical data to this day.“

And of course, there is more to the story. Her family was not aware of this fact until 25 years after her death. They were not compensated for HeLa’s immortalized cells.

Yes, I chose to honor this courageous African American woman whose illness, unfortunately, resulted in tragedy, but ultimately saved countless lives and continues to do so today.

We might not all be able to leave a legacy for the world, but we can leave a good name and reputation for our family.

CLICK ON

The importance of maintaining a good reputation.

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Grace and peace!

Cadeegirl Gee