Bess Myerson became the first Jewish woman to win the Miss America pageant in 1945. She appeared in various television shows in the 1950s and 1960s. In the 1970s and 80s, she was involved in New York City politics.

While competing in beauty pageants, Myerson refused, despite entreaties, to employ a pseudonym that "sounded less Jewish." She faced prejudice even after winning the Miss America title, with many sponsors and events long associated with the pageant refusing to deal with her. She later campaigned for civil rights, in particular, working with the Anti-Defamation League.