Lasting Legacy of Amelia Earhart: A Look at the Influence on History

A closer look at the lasting mark left by Amelia Earhart—a timeline of influence.

Amelia Earhart was a groundbreaking American aviation pioneer who vanished over the Pacific Ocean in 1937 during an attempt to circumnavigate the globe. She was the first woman to fly solo non-stop across the Atlantic Ocean and established numerous other aviation records. Beyond her flying achievements, Earhart championed commercial air travel, authored best-selling books detailing her experiences, and played a key role in establishing the Ninety-Nines, an organization for female pilots. Her life and disappearance have made her a lasting cultural icon, symbolizing adventure and women's empowerment.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

1932: Preparing for Solo Transatlantic Flight

By 1932 Amelia Earhart's visibility in the media helped redefine public perceptions of women in aviation and paved the way for her subsequent solo transatlantic flight.

1935: "Earhart Tree" planted in Hawaii

In 1935, Amelia Earhart planted the "Earhart Tree" on Banyan Drive in Hilo, Hawaii, which stands as a living memorial.

1935: Linda Finch retraces Earhart's final flight path

In 1997, on the 60th anniversary of Amelia Earhart's round-the-world flight attempt, San Antonio businesswoman Linda Finch retraced Earhart's final flight path using a restored 1935 Lockheed Electra 10.

1938: Establishment of the Amelia Earhart Fellowship

In 1938, Zonta International established the Amelia Earhart Fellowship, awarding US$10,000 annually to women pursuing Ph.D. degrees in aerospace engineering and space sciences.

1942: Launch of the SS Amelia Earhart

In 1942, the United States launched a Liberty ship named SS Amelia Earhart in honor of the aviator, before it was wrecked in 1948.

1948: Wreck of the SS Amelia Earhart

In 1948, the United States Liberty ship named SS Amelia Earhart, launched in 1942 in honor of the aviator, was wrecked.

1963: Amelia Earhart Commemorative Stamp issued

In 1963, the United States Postmaster-General issued the Amelia Earhart Commemorative Stamp (8¢ airmail postage) to honor her legacy.

1964: Purdue University opens Earhart Hall

In 1964, Purdue University opened Earhart Hall, named in honor of Amelia Earhart's legacy and her contributions to the university as a career counselor and technical advisor.

1967: Ann Pellegreno's commemorative flight

In 1967, Ann Pellegreno flew a Lockheed 10A Electra, similar to Amelia Earhart's aircraft, to complete a round-the-world flight following Earhart's original flight plan. Pellegreno dropped a wreath over Howland Island to honor Earhart on the 30th anniversary of her disappearance.

1968: Induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame

In 1968, decades after her presumed death, Amelia Earhart was inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame, recognizing her contributions to aviation history.

1971: Statue of Earhart erected in Los Angeles

Circa 1971, a statue of Amelia Earhart by Ernest Shelton was erected in Los Angeles, California.

1973: Induction into the National Women's Hall of Fame

In 1973, Amelia Earhart was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame, honoring her impact and legacy as a pioneer for women.

1992: Earhart inducted into Motorsports Hall of Fame

Amelia Earhart was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 1992, recognizing her contributions and impact.

1996: Inauguration of the Amelia Earhart Festival

Since 1996, the Amelia Earhart Festival has been an annual event in Atchison, Kansas, celebrating her life and legacy.

1997: Linda Finch retraces Earhart's final flight path

2001: Commemorative flight retraces Earhart's 1928 route

In 2001, Carlene Mendieta flew an original Avro Avian aircraft, the same type used by Amelia Earhart in 1928, to retrace Earhart's August 1928 transcontinental record flight route.

May 2007: USNS Amelia Earhart named

In May 2007, the USNS Amelia Earhart was named in her honor, continuing the legacy of the famous pilot.

2008: Statue of Earhart placed at Spirit of Flight Center

In 2008, a full-sized bronze statue of Amelia Earhart was placed at the Spirit of Flight Center in Lafayette, Colorado.

2009: Statue of Earhart erected at Purdue

In 2009, Purdue University erected a bronze statue of Amelia Earhart holding a propeller in front of Earhart Hall, the residence hall named after her.

2012: Hillary Clinton's tribute to Earhart

In 2012, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton paid tribute to Amelia Earhart at a State Department event, celebrating Earhart's legacy and ties to Pacific neighbors.