Virginia is known as the "Mother of Presidents" and has produced countless influential figures.
* **George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison:** Founding Fathers and early U.S. Presidents whose homes and legacies are centered in Virginia. * **Arthur Ashe:** Richmond-born tennis legend, civil rights activist, and the first Black man to win Wimbledon, the US Open, and the Australian Open. * **Ella Fitzgerald:** The "First Lady of Song" and legendary jazz vocalist, born in Newport News. * **Maggie L. Walker:** Civil rights activist and the first African American woman to charter a bank and serve as its president in the United States. * **Katie Couric:** Renowned journalist, television host, and author, born in Arlington and a UVA alumna. * **Missy Elliott:** Groundbreaking rapper, producer, and songwriter from Portsmouth. * **Pharrell Williams:** Award-winning musician, producer, and fashion designer, born in Virginia Beach.