The first woman to serve as Secretary of State in the U.S. was Madeleine Albright. Appointed by President Bill Clinton in 1997, she was a trailblazer in American politics and foreign diplomacy. Albright emphasized the importance of humanitarian interventions and was known for her assertive approach to international relations. Her tenure contributed to a greater focus on women’s rights globally, positioning the U.S. as a leader in addressing such issues. Albright's legacy continues to influence how diplomacy is conducted today.