CROWNING GLORY

"Crowning Glory: A Look Back at Miss Universe Winners Through the Years"

I. Introduction

This is a retrospective look at the history of the Miss Universe pageant, one of the most prestigious and widely-watched beauty pageants in the world. From the early years of the pageant in the 1950s to the modern era, this blog will take a closer look at the winners, fashion and beauty trends, and notable moments that have shaped the pageant over the decades. The Miss Universe pageant has played a significant role in shaping the world of beauty and fashion and has been a platform for women to showcase their talents, intelligence and beauty on a global stage. This blog is a tribute to all the Miss Universe winners and the impact they have had on the pageant and on society as a whole.

A. Brief history of the Miss Universe pageant

The Miss Universe pageant was first held in 1952, created by Pacific Knitting Mills, a California-based clothing company. The first pageant was held in Long Beach, California and the winner was Armi Kuusela from Finland. The pageant was later acquired by Donald Trump in 1996 and then by WME/IMG in 2015. Today, the Miss Universe pageant is held annually and is broadcasted in over 190 countries worldwide, making it one of the most widely-watched beauty pageants in the world. The pageant features contestants from around the globe, each competing in categories such as evening gown, swimsuit, and interview, with the winner being crowned Miss Universe. The pageant not only focuses on physical beauty but also on the intelligence, poise, and personality of the contestants. Over the years, the Miss Universe pageant has played a significant role in shaping the world of beauty and fashion, and has been a platform for women to showcase their talents, intelligence, and beauty on a global stage.

B. The significance of the pageant in the world of beauty and fashion

The Miss Universe pageant has played a significant role in shaping the world of beauty and fashion over the years. It has been a platform for women to showcase their talents, intelligence, and beauty on a global stage and has helped to define beauty standards and trends throughout the decades. The pageant has also been a catalyst for fashion designers and makeup artists to showcase their work on a global stage. The pageant contestants, who represent countries from around the world, often wear traditional costumes, which showcase their cultural heritage, this has helped in promoting cultural exchange and understanding.

Furthermore, the pageant has helped to promote body positivity and diversity. Over the years, contestants have represented a range of body types, skin tones, and ages, breaking away from the traditional, homogenous beauty standards that were previously prevalent. The pageant has also been a platform for women to express themselves and advocate for issues they care about, such as women's rights, education, and health.

In addition to the cultural and societal significance, the Miss Universe pageant is also a huge business, with sponsorships, merchandise, and television rights generating significant revenue. The pageant has also helped to launch the careers of many famous women, including Halle Berry, Olivia Culpo and Sushmita Sen.

Overall, the Miss Universe pageant has played a significant role in shaping the world of beauty and fashion, promoting cultural exchange, diversity, and body positivity, and has been a platform for women to showcase their talents, intelligence, and beauty on a global stage.

II. The Early Years (1952-1970)

The early years of the Miss Universe pageant, from 1952 to 1970, were characterized by a sense of elegance and refinement. During this time, the pageant was still relatively new and gaining popularity around the world. The contestants during this period were often young women from middle to upper-class backgrounds, and their poise, grace, and elegance were highly valued in the pageant.

During this period, the contestants were required to showcase a sense of elegance and poise, and their physical beauty was highly valued. The pageant also had a more formal and serious tone, with contestants often wearing evening gowns and participating in formal interviews.

The early years of the Miss Universe pageant helped to establish the pageant as a significant event in the world of beauty and fashion, and helped to define beauty standards and trends of that time.

A. Miss Universe winners of the 1950s

• Armi Kuusela (Finland) in 1952
• Christiane Martel (France) in 1953
• Miriam Stevenson (USA) in 1954
• Hillevi Rombin (Sweden) in 1955
• Carol Morris (USA) in 1956
• Marlene Schmidt (Germany) in 1957
• Luz Maria Zetina (Mexico) in 1958

• Akiko Kojima (Japan) in 1959

These early winners were often blonde-haired and blue-eyed and were considered the epitome of beauty at the time. Armi Kuusela, the first Miss Universe, was a Finnish housewife who had been discovered by a modeling agency. Christiane Martel, the second Miss Universe, was a French actress, model, and singer. Miriam Stevenson, the third Miss Universe, was an American model and actress. Hillevi Rombin, the fourth Miss Universe, was a Swedish model and actress. Carol Morris, the fifth Miss Universe, was an American model and actress. Marlene Schmidt, the sixth Miss Universe, was a German model and actress. Luz Maria Zetina, the seventh Miss Universe, was a Mexican model and actress. Akiko Kojima, the eighth Miss Universe, was a Japanese model and actress.

B. Miss Universe winners of the 1960s

• Linda Bement (USA) in 1960
• Marite Otto (Argentina) in 1961
• Norma Nolan (Argentina) in 1962
• Ieda Maria Vargas (Brazil) in 1963
• Corinna Tsopei (Greece) in 1964
• Apasra Hongsakula (Thailand) in 1965
• Margareta Arvidsson (Sweden) in 1966
• Sylvia Hitchcock (USA) in 1967
• Gloria Diaz (Philippines) in 1969

During this decade, the pageant continued to focus on elegance and poise, and the physical beauty of contestants was highly valued. The contestants were mostly young women from middle to upper-class backgrounds. The decade saw a continuation of the trend of blonde-haired, blue-eyed winners, but also saw the crowning of the first African-American Miss Universe, Peggy George (USA) in 1970, which marked a significant moment in the pageant's history.

Linda Bement, the first Miss Universe of the decade, was an American model. Marite Otto, the second Miss Universe of the decade, was an Argentine model and actress. Norma Nolan, the third Miss Universe of the decade was an Argentine model and actress. Ieda Maria Vargas, the fourth Miss Universe of the decade, was a Brazilian model and actress. Corinna Tsopei, the fifth Miss Universe of the decade, was a Greek model and actress. Apasra Hongsakula, the sixth Miss Universe of the decade, was a Thai model and actress. Margareta Arvidsson, the seventh Miss Universe of the decade, was a Swedish model and actress. Sylvia Hitchcock, the eight Miss Universe of the decade, was an American model and actress. Gloria Diaz, the ninth Miss Universe of the decade, was a Filipino actress and model.

C. Trends and notable moments from the early years

During the early years of the Miss Universe pageant, from 1952 to 1970, several notable moments shaped the pageant.

The first Miss Universe pageant: The first Miss Universe pageant was held in 1952 in Long Beach, California. Armi Kuusela from Finland was crowned the first Miss Universe, and this marked the beginning of the pageant's long-standing tradition.

The first Miss Universe from Europe: Christiane Martel from France was crowned Miss Universe in 1953, she was the first Miss Universe from Europe. This marked a significant moment in the pageant's history, as it expanded its reach beyond the Americas and began to attract contestants from around the world.

The first Miss Universe from Asia: Akiko Kojima from Japan was crowned Miss Universe in 1959, she was the first Miss Universe from Asia. This marked a significant moment in the pageant's history, as it expanded its reach to Asia and began to attract contestants from around the world.

The first African-American Miss Universe: Peggy George from the United States was crowned Miss Universe in 1970, she was the first African-American Miss Universe. This marked a significant moment in the pageant's history, as it expanded its reach to African-American contestants, and began to represent a more diverse group of women.

The first Miss Universe who was married: Armi Kuusela from Finland, who was crowned the first Miss Universe in 1952, was also the first Miss Universe who was married. This marked a significant moment in the pageant's history, as it expanded its reach to married women, and began to represent a more diverse group of women.

Cultural exchange: The pageant helped to promote cultural exchange by showcasing traditional costumes of the contestants representing their countries, this helped in promoting understanding and appreciating cultural diversity.

National pride: The pageant helped to promote national pride as each country's contestant represented their country, this created a sense of national pride among the citizens of the country.

Overall, the early years of the Miss Universe pageant helped to establish the pageant as a significant event in the world of beauty and fashion, and helped to define beauty standards and trends of that time. The pageant also played a role in promoting cultural exchange, diversity, and national pride.

III. The Glamorous 70s (1971-1980)

The 1970s, also known as the "Glamorous 70s," was a decade that saw the Miss Universe pageant evolving and growing in popularity. The pageant during this period was characterized by a more relaxed and fun-loving atmosphere, and the contestants were encouraged to express their personalities and individuality. The fashion and beauty trends of the decade were reflected in the pageant, with contestants often wearing bold and colorful outfits, and experimenting with new hairstyles and makeup

During this decade, the pageant also began to place more emphasis on the intelligence and personality of the contestants, as well as their physical beauty. The contestants were also required to participate in various activities such as talent competition, and were also given a chance to express themselves in their own words.

The 1970s was a decade of change, and the Miss Universe pageant reflected this by becoming more relaxed and fun-loving and giving more emphasis on the intelligence and personality of the contestants. The pageant also reflected the fashion and beauty trends of the decade, with contestants often wearing bold and colorful outfits, and experimenting with new hairstyles and makeup.

A. Miss Universe winners of the 1970s

• Georgina Rizk (Lebanon) in 1971
• Kerry Anne Wells (Australia) in 1972
• Marjorie Wallace (USA) in 1973
• Amparo Muñoz (Spain) in 1974
• Anne Marie Pohtamo (Finland) in 1975
• Rina Messinger (Israel) in 1976
• Janelle Commissiong (Trinidad & Tobago) in 1977
• Margaret Gardiner (South Africa) in 1978
• Maria del Carmen (Venezuela) in 1979
• Shawn Weatherly (USA) in 1980

B. Fashion and beauty trends from the decade

Bold and colorful outfits: Contestants during the 1970s often wore bold and colorful outfits, with bright colors such as orange, yellow, and pink being popular choices. The contestants also experimented with different patterns and fabrics, such as paisley and velvet.

Bell-bottom pants: Bell-bottom pants were a popular fashion trend during the 1970s and were often worn by the contestants. These pants were wide-legged and flared at the bottom, giving a sense of freedom and liberation.

Platform shoes: Platform shoes were also a popular fashion trend during the 1970s, and were often worn by the contestants. These shoes had a thick sole and heel, which gave the appearance of added height.

Long hair: Long hair was a popular beauty trend during the 1970s, and many contestants had long, flowing hair. The contestants often wore their hair down and straight, or styled in loose curls.

Natural makeup: During the 1970s, natural makeup was popular, with minimal use of foundation and a focus on enhancing the natural beauty of the face. The contestants often wore light-colored lipstick, blush, and eyeshadow, and had defined eyebrows.

Afro hairstyle: African American contestants during this decade were seen sporting an Afro hairstyle. This was a defining moment as it was a statement of cultural pride and a departure from the traditional hairstyles that were common in previous years.

C. Notable moments and controversies from the 1970s

The Miss Universe pageant saw several notable moments and controversies, including the first Miss Universe from Lebanon, the first dethroned Miss Universe, the first Miss Universe of African descent, and the first country to win two Miss Universe titles. These moments helped to shape the pageant and make it more inclusive and diverse.

Miss Universe 1973: Marjorie Wallace from the United States was crowned Miss Universe in 1973, but her reign was cut short after just four months because of her alleged "lack of interest" in fulfilling her duties. This was a controversial moment in the pageant's history, as it was the first time that a Miss Universe had been dethroned for such reasons.

Miss Universe 1974: Amparo Muñoz from Spain was crowned Miss Universe in 1974, but her victory was met with controversy as some felt that Miss Philippines, Evangeline Pascual, should have won the competition.

Miss Universe 1977: Janelle Commissiong from Trinidad and Tobago was crowned Miss Universe in 1977, but her victory was met with controversy as some felt that Miss Puerto Rico, Tania Báez, should have won the competition.

Miss Universe 1979: María del Carmen from Venezuela was crowned Miss Universe in 1979, but her victory was met with controversy as some felt that Miss Philippines, Melanie Marquez, should have won the competition.

These controversies raised questions about the fairness and transparency of the pageant's judging process and led to calls for changes in the way the pageant was run. Despite these controversies, the pageant continued to grow in popularity and attract contestants from around the world.

It's worth mentioning that controversies around beauty pageants are not unique to the Miss Universe in the 1970s and they still happen today, many of them are related to the subjectivity of the judging process and the lack of transparency, which can lead to questions about the fairness of the competition.

IV. The Powerhouse 80s (1981-1990)

The Miss Universe pageant during the 1980s was a high-profile event that was watched by millions of people around the world and had a significant influence on global pop culture, fashion and beauty standards during that era.

A. Miss Universe winners of the 1980s

• 1980: Shawn Weatherly from the United States
• 1981: Irene Saez from Venezuela
• 1982: Karen Dianne Baldwin from Canada
• 1983: Lorraine Downes from New Zealand
• 1984: Yvonne Ryding from Sweden
• 1985: Deborah Carthy-Deu from Puerto Rico
• 1986: Barbara Palacios Teyde from Venezuela
• 1987: Cecilia Bolocco from Chile
• 1988: Porntip Nakhirunkanok from Thailand
• 1989: Angela Visser from Netherlands
• 1990: Mona Grudt from Norway

All the winners of the 1980s had various backgrounds and all of them were accomplished in their own right. They were models, television hosts, actresses, and students. Each winner represented their country with grace and poise, during their reign they traveled the world, participated in various events and charitable causes.

B. Fashion and beauty trends from the decade

In the Miss Universe pageant during the 1980s, fashion and beauty trends were heavily influenced by the pop culture of the decade. Some key trends from the pageant during the decade include:

Evening Gowns: Evening gowns during the 1980s were often designed with a fitted bodice and a full, flowing skirt. Many gowns featured sequins, beads, and other embellishments, and were often designed in bright, bold colors. Many gowns were also designed to show off the contestants' figures, with low-cut necklines, slits, and daring backlines.

Swimsuits: Swimsuits were designed to show off the contestants' figures, with high-cut legs and low-cut necklines being popular. Many swimsuits were made in bright colors and often featured intricate designs.

Hair and Makeup: Hairstyles during the 80s were often big, voluminous, and styled with a lot of volume, curls, and hairspray. Makeup was often bold and colorful, with bright lipsticks and heavy eye makeup being popular.

National costume: National costumes were an important part of the pageant, and were often a reflection of the contestants' cultural heritage. Many costumes featured vibrant colors, intricate designs, and traditional elements such as headdresses and jewelry. The contestants often put a lot of effort in their national costumes, they were designed to showcase the cultural heritage, history and identity of their respective countries.

C. Notable moments and controversies from the 1980s

In 1980, Shawn Weatherly of the United States was crowned Miss Universe. She was the first woman from the United States to win the title in 12 years, and her win was seen as a major victory for the country.

In 1984, Yvonne Ryding of Sweden was crowned Miss Universe. She was the first woman from her country to win the title, and her win was celebrated in Sweden as a major achievement.

In 1985, Miss Universe pageant was held in Miami, Florida, USA. It was the first time the pageant was held in the United States in three years.

In 1988, Porntip Nakhirunkanok from Thailand was crowned Miss Universe. She was the first Asian woman to win the title in 20 years, and her win was seen as a major victory for Asia.

In 1989, Angela Visser of the Netherlands was crowned Miss Universe. She was the first woman from her country to win the title, and her win was celebrated in the Netherlands as a major achievement.

In the 1980s, There were some controversies related to the Miss Universe pageant, such as the use of the "Bikini" as part of the swimsuit competition, which some people felt objectified the contestants. Additionally, there were also accusations of bias and corruption in the judging process.

In 1990, Mona Grudt from Norway became the first woman from her country to win the Miss Universe title. Her win was seen as a major achievement for Norway and Europe as a whole.

In some editions, there were some protests and boycotts from feminist organizations regarding the pageant, arguing that it objectified women and reinforced traditional gender roles.

V. The Changing Times (1991-2000)

The 1990s was a decade of significant change for the Miss Universe pageant, as it adapted to the shifting cultural, social and political landscape of the time.The Miss Universe pageant during this year was a time of change and evolution, with many firsts, historic moments, and controversies. It was a time when the pageant was seeking to adapt to a new and changing world. The pageant during this decade also marked many achievements for countries that had not had a winner in a long time and also for different ethnic and racial minorities.

A. Miss Universe winners of the 1990s

• 1991: Lupita Jones from Mexico
• 1992: Michelle McLean from Namibia
• 1993: Dayanara Torres from Puerto Rico
• 1994: Sushmita Sen from India
• 1995: Chelsi Smith from United States
• 1996: Alicia Machado from Venezuela
• 1997: Brook Lee from United States
• 1998: Wendy Fitzwilliam from Trinidad and Tobago
• 1999: Mpule Kwelagobe from Botswana
• 2000: Lara Dutta from India

All the winners of the 1990s had various backgrounds and all of them were accomplished in their own right. They were models, actresses, students, and some of them had their own businesses.

B. Fashion and beauty trends from the decade

In the Miss Universe pageant during the 1990s, fashion and beauty trends were heavily influenced by the pop culture of the decade. Some key trends from the pageant during the decade include:

Evening Gowns: During the 90s, evening gowns were often designed with a combination of classic and modern elements. Many gowns featured sequins, beads, and other embellishments, and were often designed in neutral, pastel colors. Some of the gowns also had a more minimalist design, with clean lines and simple fabrics.

Swimsuits: Swimsuits were designed to show off the contestants' figures, with high-cut legs and low-cut necklines being popular. Many swimsuits were made in bright colors and often featured intricate designs, but also, some of the swimsuits were designed with a more athletic and sporty look.

Hair and Makeup: Hairstyles during the 90s were often sleek and elegant, with simple, sophisticated and natural look. Makeup was often natural and subtle, with neutral colors being popular.

National costume: National costumes were an important part of the pageant, and were often a reflection of the contestants' cultural heritage. Many costumes featured vibrant colors, intricate designs, and traditional elements such as headdresses and jewelry

C. Notable moments and controversies from the 1990s

In 1991, Lupita Jones from Mexico became the first woman from her country to win the Miss Universe title. Her win was seen as a major achievement for Mexico and Latin America as a whole.

In 1992, the pageant was held in Bangkok, Thailand, the first time it was held in Asia.

In 1993, Dayanara Torres from Puerto Rico became the first woman from her country to win the Miss Universe title in nearly 20 years. Her win was seen as a major achievement for Puerto Rico and Latin America as a whole.

In 1994, Sushmita Sen from India became the first woman from her country to win the Miss Universe title. Her win marked a major achievement for India and Asia as a whole.

In 1996, Alicia Machado from Venezuela became the fourth woman from her country to win the Miss Universe title. Her win marked a major achievement for Venezuela and Latin America as a whole.

In 1997, Brook Lee from Hawaii, USA, became the first Asian-American woman to win the Miss Universe title, her win was seen as a major achievement for the Asian-American community and the United States as a whole.

In 1999, Mpule Kwelagobe from Botswana became the first woman from her country to win the Miss Universe title, her win was seen as a major achievement for Africa as a whole.

In the 1990s, the pageant faced some controversies related to the use of the "Bikini" as part of the swimsuit competition, which some people felt objectified the contestants. Additionally, there were also accusations of bias and corruption in the judging process

In 2000, Lara Dutta from India became the second woman from her country to win the Miss Universe title. Her win was seen as a major achievement for India and Asia as a whole.

VI. The New Millennium (2001-2010)

The Miss Universe pageant during the early 2000s was a continuation of the changes and evolution that began in the 1990s. The pageant continued to be a high-profile event that was watched by millions of people around the world and had a significant influence on global pop culture, fashion, and beauty standards. Many countries had the opportunity to have their representatives as winners, and it was a time of celebration for those countries and their respective communities around the world.

A. Miss Universe winners of the 2000s

• 2001: Denise Quiñones from Puerto Rico
• 2002: Justine Pasek from Panama
• 2003: Amelia Vega from the Dominican Republic
• 2004: Jennifer Hawkins from Australia
• 2005: Natalie Glebova from Canada
• 2006: Zuleyka Rivera from Puerto Rico
• 2007: Riyo Mori from Japan
• 2008: Dayana Mendoza from Venezuela
• 2009: Stefania Fernandez from Venezuela
• 2010: Ximena Navarrete from Mexico

All the winners of the 2000s had various backgrounds and all of them were accomplished in their own right. They were models, actresses, students, and some of them had their own businesses

B. Fashion and beauty trends from the decade

Some key trends from the pageant during the decade which is very similar to 90s include:

Evening Gowns: Evening gowns during the 2000s were often designed with a more modern and minimalist look, many gowns featured simple, clean lines and understated embellishments. Many gowns were designed in a variety of colors, but neutral tones such as silver, gold and white were very popular.

Swimsuits: Swimsuits were designed to show off the contestants' figures, with high-cut legs and low-cut necklines being popular. Many swimsuits were made in bright colors and often featured intricate designs. There were also some swimsuits that were designed with a more athletic and sporty look.

Hair and Makeup: Hairstyles during the 2000s were often sleek, straight, and elegant. Makeup was often natural and subtle, with neutral colors being popular. False lashes, lip gloss and bronzer were also popular among the contestants.

National costume: National costumes were an important part of the pageant, and were often a reflection of the contestants' cultural heritage. Many costumes featured vibrant colors, intricate designs, and traditional elements such as headdresses and jewelry

C. Notable moments and controversies from the 2000s

In 2001, Denise Quiñones from Puerto Rico became the second woman from her country to win the Miss Universe title in less than a decade.

In 2002, Justine Pasek from Panama became the second woman from her country to win the Miss Universe title.

In 2003, Amelia Vega from the Dominican Republic became the first woman from her country to win the Miss Universe title.

In 2004, Jennifer Hawkins from Australia became the first woman from her country to win the Miss Universe title since 1972.

In 2007, Riyo Mori from Japan became the second woman from her country to win the Miss Universe title.

In 2008, Dayana Mendoza from Venezuela became the sixth woman from her country to win the Miss Universe title, which was a record at the time.

In 2009, Stefania Fernandez from Venezuela became the seventh woman from her country to win the Miss Universe title and the second in a row.

In 2010, Ximena Navarrete from Mexico became the second woman from her country to win the Miss Universe title in less than a decade.

The pageant during this period was also marked by a number of controversies, such as the use of the "Bikini" as part of the swimsuit competition, which some people felt objectified the contestants, and accusations of bias and corruption in the judging process.

In 2002, the pageant was held in San Juan, Puerto Rico, which was the first time it was held in the island.

In 2002, the pageant faced criticism for its lack of diversity and representation, as all the finalists were blond-haired, blue-eyed women.

In 2007, Miss Japan Riyo Mori was crowned Miss Universe, it was the second time that a Japanese woman won the pageant and it was seen as a major achievement for Japan and Asia as a whole

VII. The Modern Era (2011-2021)

The pageant during this period also continued to adapt to the changing times and societal expectations, with an emphasis on diversity and representation. The pageant during this era also saw the inclusion of a talent competition, and an increased focus on the contestants' charitable and social impact work.

A. Miss Universe winners of the 2010s

• 2011: Leila Lopes from Angola
• 2012: Olivia Culpo from the United States
• 2013: Gabriela Isler from Venezuela
• 2014: Paulina Vega from Colombia
• 2015: Pia Wurtzbach from the Philippines
• 2016: Iris Mittenaere from France
• 2017: Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters from South Africa
• 2018: Catriona Gray from the Philippines
• 2019: Zozibini Tunzi from South Africa

B. Fashion and beauty trends from the decade

1. Bold Makeup: Bold makeup looks, such as smoky eyes, colorful eyeshadow and contouring, were popular among Miss Universe contestants in the 2010s.

2. Sleek Hairstyles: Sleek and straight hairstyles, such as sleek bobs, were favored in the 2010s.

3. Statement Jewelry: Statement jewelry, such as large necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, were a popular accessory for Miss Universe contestants in the 2010s.

4. Bright Colors: Bright and vibrant colors, such as pink, yellow, and red, were often used in Miss Universe gowns and swimsuits in the 2010s.

5. Mermaid Gowns: Mermaid gowns, which feature a fitted bodice and full skirt, were popular among Miss Universe contestants in the 2010s.

C. Notable moments and controversies from the 2010s

1. Steve Harvey's Miss Universe Mistake (2015)

Steve Harvey mistakenly declared Miss Colombia, Ariadna Gutierrez, as the winner of the 2015 Miss Universe pageant instead of the actual winner, Miss Philippines, Pia Wurtzbach. This mistake has become one of the most memorable moments in beauty pageants.

2. Miss Universe 2019 Top 3 Controversy (2019)

The 2019 Miss Universe pageant was marred by controversy when the top 3 finalists were announced. Many viewers felt that South Africa's Zozibini Tunzi should have been included in the top 3 finalists instead of Colombia's Gabriela Tafur. This sparked a debate on social media and the hashtag #MissUniverse2019 began trending.

3. The Transgender Question (2012)

In 2012, transgender contestant Jenna Talackova was disqualified from the Miss Universe Canada pageant. This sparked a debate about transgender representation in beauty pageants and led to a petition calling for Talackova to be allowed to compete. After much public outcry, the Miss Universe organization eventually reversed its decision and allowed Talackova to compete.

VIII. Conclusion

It's clear that the Miss Universe pageant has come a long way in its nearly 70-year history. From its humble beginnings as a small beauty pageant in Long Beach, California in 1952, to the worldwide phenomenon it is today, the pageant has seen many incredible women crowned as Miss Universe. These women have come from all walks of life and have gone on to do amazing things. Each of them is a testament to the strength, courage, and beauty of the female spirit. We congratulate all of the past and present Miss Universe winners and look forward to seeing who will be crowned the next upcoming Miss Universe.

A. The lasting impact of the Miss Universe pageant

The lasting impact of the Miss Universe pageant is that it has provided a platform for women from around the world to celebrate their beauty, talent, and culture. It has also raised awareness about important issues such as gender equality and women's rights, as well as served as a platform for female empowerment. The pageant has also provided an opportunity for contestants to gain experience in public speaking and self-promotion, as well as helped to promote an appreciation for diversity and cultural understanding.

B. The future of the pageant and the role of beauty pageants in society.

The future of beauty pageants will depend on how well the pageants are able to adapt to the changing times and the needs of society. Beauty pageants have become increasingly popular over the years, and this is likely to continue. However, pageants will need to focus on celebrating the individual differences of contestants and promoting positive body image, inclusivity, and self-confidence rather than simply rewarding physical beauty.

In the future, beauty pageants will strive to be more inclusive and diverse, with a greater emphasis on celebrating the unique beauty of all contestants. The focus of these pageants will be on the overall package of character, intelligence, and personality, rather than solely on physical beauty.

In terms of their role in society, beauty pageants will continue to be a platform to empower young women and encourage them to reach their full potential. The pageants will also help to promote positive body image and self-confidence, by providing a safe and encouraging environment for women to express themselves. Ultimately, beauty pageants can help to create a more diverse and inclusive society, where all individuals are celebrated for their differences and unique beauty.