This Day in History:, Vanessa Williams Becomes <br />First Black Miss America.<br />September 17, 1983.<br />At the time of Williams' <br />historic title, the Miss America <br />pageant had a 63-year history.<br />Black women weren't <br />allowed to compete for the <br />first 30 years of the pageant.<br />A year after being crowned, nude photos of her emerged. She was forced to give up her title.<br />Despite the controversy, Williams launched <br />a successful music career. Her 1994 album, <br />'The Sweetest Days,' went platinum.<br />She also sang the Oscar-winning track, "The Color <br />of the Wind," featured in the Disney hit, 'Pocahontas.'.<br />Williams has also led a successful acting career, with roles <br />in film, television and on Broadway. She was nominated <br />for a Tony for her role in a revival of 'Into the Woods.'
