About William J. Powell
Lived 1897 – 1942 (aged 44). William J. Powell was an American aircraft pilot.
William Jenifer Powell (July 27, 1897 – July 12, 1942) was an American engineer, soldier, civil aviator and writer who is credited with promoting aviation among the African-American community. Along with Bessie Coleman and James Banning, he is recognized as a pioneer aviator and a civil rights activist. Powell was optimistic about the prospects of African Americans in aviation, and believed that their involvement in the industry would help end racial prejudice at a time of widespread segregation under the Jim Crow laws.
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Important facts
People in William J. Powell's life
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Contemporaries
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Frequently asked questions
Who was William J. Powell?
aviator (1897-1942)
When was William J. Powell born?
William J. Powell was born on 27 July 1897 in Henderson.
When did William J. Powell die?
William J. Powell died on 12 July 1942 in Wyoming.
What was William J. Powell's occupation?
William J. Powell was an aircraft pilot.
What nationality was William J. Powell?
William J. Powell was American.
Sources & further reading
· Wikipedia: William J. Powell
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). William J. Powell. https://biography.guide/william-j-powell-aircraft-pilot/
MLA: "William J. Powell." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/william-j-powell-aircraft-pilot/.
Chicago: "William J. Powell." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/william-j-powell-aircraft-pilot/.
Data last updated: 2026-09-23 · Spot an error? Report a correction.
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