The first female governor in American history was Nellie Tayloe Ross. She served as the governor of Wyoming from 1925 to 1927, following the death of her husband, who had been the governor. Ross was elected as a symbol of progress in a time when women were beginning to gain more political power. Her term paved the way for future female politicians in the United States, making history by breaking gender barriers in governance. Ross eventually went on to serve as the director of the U.S. Mint, further highlighting her significant contributions to American politics.