Can you imagine a time when women couldn't vote, get into America's top universities, or get an education? For centuries women lived in the shadow of men because they were not allowed to thrive, the only destiny they had for themselves was mother and wife. However, one woman broke numerous barriers and became the first African American woman in the United States to earn a doctorate in chemistry: Mary Maynard Daly. She was an activist for the African American community and active in several associations, hardworking and proud to fully live her father's legacy with her drive and determination. Mary Maynard Daly was born on April 16, 1921 in Corona, Queens and was the daughter of the well-educated Ivan C. Daly and Helen Daly. The Dalys were cultured and educated, but could not fully realize their dreams due to financial complications, so Mary Daily accepted her parents' commitment and turned it into her own personal incentive. Additionally, Daly's grandparents were instrumental in her road to triumph, laying the foundation of chemistry when she was younger. When Daly visited his grandparents who lived in Washington D.C., he was able to read about scientists and their accomplishments in his grandfather's diverse and informative library. While reading at his grandparents' house, Daly found his scientific muse, a chemist named Paul De Kruif who made the decision to pursue chemistry as an assured career. Later Daly married Vincent Clark, in 1961 and decided to move to Florida and unfortunately Daly passed away in 2003 and the cause of her death was unknown. Of course along the way Mary Daly had to face many challenges to reach her pinnacle level, she had to face numerous racial slurs and prejudices because... at the center of the paper... they shocked the world and will remain in our history books throughout 'eternity. “Women need to harness their power – that's absolutely true. It's just a matter of learning not to accept the first no. And if you can't go straight, you turn the corner” – Cher. If Daly had accepted her first “no” and left after someone doubted her, she wouldn't have made history. If he had believed his goals were impossible, he would not have made history. If he had taken into consideration some of the negative reactions he received, he wouldn't have made the story. Instead of giving up, she proved many people wrong and turned out to once again have a major impact on our world. Nothing is given to anyone for free in this world, we all have to work for what we want, regardless of the difficulties. So, the next time someone tells you that one person can't make a difference or that you won't achieve your goal, what will you do???