Rebecca Lee Crumpler was the first African American woman to become a physician in the United States. She was born in 1831 in Delaware and later moved to Massachusetts where she worked as a nurse. In 1864, Crumpler became the first Black woman to earn a medical degree from the New England Female Medical College.

After completing her studies, Crumpler practiced medicine in Boston, focusing on providing healthcare to underserved communities, particularly African American women and children. She faced racism and discrimination throughout her career, but she persisted in her efforts to provide quality medical care to those in need.

Rebecca Lee Crumpler's pioneering work paved the way for future generations of Black women in medicine and healthcare. She remains an important figure in Black history for her groundbreaking achievements and dedication to improving the health and well-being of her community.