Anna J. Cooper was regarded with a mix of admiration and criticism during her time. She was celebrated for her intellect, eloquence, and groundbreaking contributions to the discourse on race, gender, and education, particularly among African American women. However, her radical notions often put her at odds with prevailing societal norms, and while she inspired many, she also faced challenges and resistance.
Ultimately, her legacy was complex. She was recognized by some as a leading figure in the early civil rights movement and an advocate for women's rights. Yet, her work did not receive widespread recognition during her lifetime, and much of her impact was only fully acknowledged posthumously. Therefore, her success motivated some to slander her with fake scandal can be seen as a partial truth, as her radical views did lead to controversies that affected her public image.
Overall, while she was a pioneering figure, her contributions did not receive the full recognition they deserved until later in history.