49 Inspiring Vintage Photos of Extraordinary Women

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The Dragon Lady, Anna May Wong (1931)

Fineartamerica

Anna May Wong, born Wong Liu Tsong in a diverse and integrated community in Los Angeles, was recognized as the first Chinese American Hollywood movie star. She started her acting career early in an uncredited role in the movie The Red Led Lantern where she was one among hundreds of female extras carrying lanterns. She continued to work as an extra for various films until she received her first screen credit in the 1921 anthology film Bits of Life.

At age 19, Anna May caught the attention of audiences and critics alike and made a name for herself playing the role of a Dragon Lady. However, Anna May refused to be relegated to clichéd roles of dragon ladies, lotus flowers, and butterflies, and she fought against racism and discrimination for better non-stereotypical roles. Anna May did not only prove her talent and passion for acting, but she also showed she had a gift for languages, being fluent in English, Chinese, German, and French.