Find Out the First Miss America Winner from Your State

Bess Myerson made history as Miss New York and the first Jewish woman ever crowned Miss America, winning in 1945. Born in the Bronx to immigrant parents, she grew up in a working-class family and studied music at Hunter College before entering the competition.

Her victory came just months after the end of World War II, making her win profoundly symbolic at a time when antisemitism was rampant. Myerson later became a television personality and public servant, using her platform to advocate for civil rights and consumer protection.