Find Out the First Miss America Winner from Your State

#1: Miss Alabama, 1951 — Yolande Betbeze

Yolande Betbeze, crowned Miss America 1951, began her journey as Miss Alabama. Born in Mobile and raised in a French Basque Catholic family, she attended convent schools before stepping into the pageant world. Her striking voice and personality made her stand out among the contestants of her era.

What truly set Betbeze apart was her refusal to pose in a swimsuit after winning the crown. That bold choice challenged the pageant’s image, caused sponsors to leave, and indirectly sparked the creation of Miss USA. Her influence reshaped beauty contests forever.