Vanessa becomes first black Miss America

1983 - Miss New York, Vanessa Williams, was crowned Miss America 1984, to become the first black woman to win the title in the 62-year history of the pageant. Miss Williams, 20, won preliminary talent and swimming-suit competitions of the pageant, which barred minority participation during its first three decades. Miss New Jersey, Suzette Charles, the other black finalist in the pageant, was first runner-up. Miss Alabama, Pam Battles, was second runner-up.