Black History Month is a wonderful opportunity to introduce meaningful stories through creativity. These free Black History Month coloring sheets and bookmarks are designed to help children and adults alike learn about six remarkable Black women who helped shape history through courage, intelligence, activism, and perseverance.
This printable set includes full-page coloring sheets and individual bookmarks, all featuring African-inspired patterns and bold line art that’s easy to color. They’re perfect for classrooms, libraries, homeschool lessons, and quiet craft time at home.
Each printable highlights one incredible woman and her lasting contribution to history.
Free Printable Bookmarks
Harriet Tubman
Abolitionist · Freedom Fighter · Conductor of the Underground Railroad
Harriet Tubman escaped slavery, but freedom for herself was never enough. She returned to the South again and again to help others escape, guiding dozens of enslaved people to safety using the Underground Railroad.
Later, Harriet Tubman served as a nurse, scout, and spy during the American Civil War. Her courage, leadership, and dedication to justice make her one of the most important figures in American history and a powerful symbol of freedom.
Maya Angelou
Poet · Author · Civil Rights Activist
Maya Angelou was a poet, memoirist, and speaker whose words continue to inspire people around the world. Her writing explored themes of identity, resilience, and social justice with honesty and grace.
Her autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings became a landmark work in American literature, helping to amplify Black voices and experiences. Maya Angelou’s poetry reminds readers of the power of words and the importance of speaking one’s truth.
Katherine Johnson
NASA Mathematician · Space Pioneer
Katherine Johnson was a brilliant mathematician whose calculations helped make space travel possible. Working at NASA, she computed flight paths and safety returns for early space missions—long before computers were trusted.
Her work played a critical role in missions that sent astronauts into orbit and to the moon, including Apollo 11. Katherine Johnson’s legacy shows how determination and talent can break barriers in science and technology.
Bessie Coleman
Aviation Pioneer · First Black Woman Pilot
Bessie Coleman dreamed of flying at a time when both racism and sexism stood in her way. When she was denied flight training in the United States, she moved to France to earn her pilot’s license.
She became the first Black woman pilot and later a stunt pilot, thrilling crowds while inspiring future aviators. Bessie Coleman’s story is a powerful reminder that determination can overcome even the strongest barriers.
Ruby Bridges
Civil Rights Activist · School Integration Pioneer
Ruby Bridges was just six years old when she became the first Black child to integrate an all-white elementary school in the American South.
Each day, she walked into school escorted by federal marshals, facing angry crowds with remarkable bravery. Ruby Bridges’ courage helped move the fight for school integration forward and continues to teach children about standing up for what is right.
Mae Jemison
Astronaut · Scientist · Engineer
Mae Jemison made history as the first Black woman to travel into space aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour. She is also a physician, engineer, and lifelong advocate for science education.
Through her work, Mae Jemison continues to encourage young people—especially girls—to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Her journey proves that curiosity and determination can take you beyond the stars.
About the Free Printables
This free Black History Month printable set includes:
- Full-page coloring sheets for each woman
- Individual bookmarks with matching African-inspired designs
- Bold black-and-white line art for easy coloring
- One featured historical figure per design
These coloring pages and bookmarks are ideal for:
- Black History Month classroom activities
- Homeschool history units
- Library programs and reading challenges
- Creative projects that encourage learning through art
Print them, color them, laminate them, or use them as discussion starters—these free printables are designed to make history engaging, accessible, and meaningful.
Black History Month Coloring Sheets & Bookmarks
Featuring Harriet Tubman, Maya Angelou, Katherine Johnson, Bessie Coleman, Ruby Bridges & Mae Jemison
Recommended Grade Levels
Grades K–5 (easily adaptable for older students)
Time Required
30–60 minutes (can be split across multiple sessions)
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will:
- Learn about six important Black women in history
- Understand how courage, education, and perseverance can create change
- Connect historical figures to real-world actions and values
- Express learning through art, discussion, and reflection
Materials Needed
- Printed coloring sheets (one or more per student)
- Printed bookmark sheets
- Crayons, markers, or colored pencils
- Scissors (for bookmarks)
- Optional: laminator or cardstock
- Whiteboard or chart paper
Introduction (5–10 Minutes)
Begin with a group discussion:
Ask students:
- What is Black History Month?
- Why is it important to learn about people who helped change history?
- Can kids make a difference too?
Explain that today they will learn about six real women who helped change the world in different ways—through bravery, writing, math, flying, learning, and exploring space.
Featured Women Overview (Teacher Talking Points)
Briefly introduce each woman before handing out the coloring sheets.
Harriet Tubman
- Helped people escape slavery
- Led others to freedom
- Showed bravery and leadership
Maya Angelou
- Poet and author
- Used words to inspire change
- Taught others about resilience and kindness
Katherine Johnson
- NASA mathematician
- Helped astronauts travel safely to space
- Loved math and problem-solving
Bessie Coleman
- First Black woman pilot
- Learned to fly even when told she couldn’t
- Never gave up on her dream
Ruby Bridges
- Helped integrate schools at age six
- Showed courage in the face of fear
- Helped make schools fairer for everyone
Mae Jemison
- First Black woman astronaut
- Scientist and doctor
- Encourages kids to explore science and learning
Activity 1: Coloring & Learning (15–20 Minutes)
- Give each student one coloring sheet (or allow them to choose).
- As students color, read short facts aloud or display them on the board.
- Encourage students to:
- Notice symbols (books, planes, stars, schools, lanterns)
- Ask questions about what the symbols mean
- Walk around and engage students in short conversations:
- Why do you think this person is important?
- What do you like about their story?
Activity 2: Bookmark Creation (10–15 Minutes)
- Hand out the bookmark sheet.
- Students color and cut out one or more bookmarks.
- Optional:
- Write one word on the back that describes the woman (brave, smart, kind, strong)
- Punch a hole and add yarn or ribbon
- Explain that bookmarks can remind us of people who inspire us while we read.
Discussion & Reflection (5–10 Minutes)
Choose a few discussion prompts:
- Which woman stood out to you the most and why?
- What challenges did these women face?
- How did they show courage or determination?
- How can we be brave or kind like them today?
For younger students, allow verbal responses.
For older students, use written reflection.
Extension Activities (Optional)
- Writing Prompt:
“If I could meet one of these women, I would ask her…” - Art Extension:
Design a new bookmark for someone who inspires you - Math or Science Tie-In:
Learn more about space travel (Katherine Johnson / Mae Jemison) - Library Display:
Display finished coloring sheets and bookmarks for Black History Month
Assessment (Informal)
Students demonstrate understanding by:
- Participating in discussion
- Completing coloring sheets thoughtfully
- Explaining who their chosen woman is and why she matters
Teacher Notes
- These activities are designed to be gentle, respectful, and empowering
- Emphasize strength, intelligence, courage, and kindness
- Allow students to engage at their own level—there is no “right” coloring style
Get Free Newsletters & updated from Thrifty Gifts Shop Sign Up Today! https://thriftygifts.shop/
