March is Women’s History Month: Let’s celebrate these forward-thinking women in history
This month, we take a moment to celebrate the achievements of 17 women in history who have made contributions to society in ways both subtle and significant.
Susan B. Anthony, the legendary women's rights activist, played a pivotal role in changing the course of American history. Her unwavering commitment to women's suffrage and equal rights laid the foundation for the women's rights movement and transformed American society forever. Harriet Tubman was a runaway slave from Maryland who became known as the ‘Moses of her people.’ Over the course of 10 years, and at great personal risk, she led hundreds of slaves to freedom along the Underground Railroad, a secret network of safe houses where runaway slaves could stay on their journey north to freedom. From her humble beginnings in a log cabin in Wisconsin to her adventures on the prairies of Kansas, Laura's life was full of hardship, determination and triumph. Her stories of family, perseverance, and love in the face of adversity have inspired countless readers, and she remains a timeless figure in American literature -- a true inspiration to all who value the pioneer spirit. Radium earned Marie Curie worldwide fame, and changed the face of medicine. Here, she describes how this historic scientific discovery was made. Possibly the most famous nurse ever, Florence Nightingale made a profound impact on American society. Her revolutionary ideas about healthcare, sanitation and patient care transformed the medical profession and continues to influence healthcare practices today. Annie Oakley wasn’t just the best “female” sharpshooter — she was THE best, period. For example, she once sent a shot right through the center of a bullseye… then someone bet she couldn’t shoot through the hole she had just made. Can you guess what happened next? Amelia Earhart, trailblazing aviator and adventurer, [literally] soared to new heights and shattered gender barriers in the process. Her daring flights and record-breaking achievements captured the imagination of the world and inspired generations of women to pursue their dreams. Earhart's courage and determination in the face of adversity continue to inspire and empower women to this day. Louisa May Alcott captured the hearts of readers with her timeless tales of family, love, and sisterhood. Through her writing, Alcott challenged the conventional ideas of femininity and the role of women in society, paving the way for future generations of women writers. And her legacy lives on today -- inspiring readers of all ages to embrace their individuality, pursue their passions and cherish the bonds of family and sisterhood. Helen Keller, the extraordinary woman who overcame deafness and blindness, made a profound impact on the world. With fierce determination, she proved that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. Her inspiring story of triumph over adversity serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the limitless potential of the human mind. Dorothy Lamour, the sultry Hollywood actress known for her performances in vintage films such as "The Jungle Princess" and "Road to Singapore," was not just a movie star -- she was also a vital asset to the United States during World War II. Lamour tirelessly traveled the country, selling more than $300 million in war bonds to support the troops overseas, making a significant impact on the outcome of the war. Lamour's selflessness, patriotism, and dedication to the country serve as a powerful example of the impact that one person can have during a time of crisis. Not merely a super-famous child actor, Shirley Temple lived a rich and dynamic life right up until her death in 2014 at age 85. A mom of three, she hosted a TV program, fundraised for the Republican Party, ran for Congress in California, and served in the Nixon, Ford and George H. W. Bush administrations as a diplomat. Gloria Steinem -- feminist icon, activist, founder and editor of MS magazine -- has always challenged societal norms and expectations. As she aged, she challenged ageism and advocated for a new way of looking at getting older, encouraging women to embrace their age and not be defined by it. Jackie Kennedy was not only a political figure, but also a fashion icon. Her timeless style and elegance captivated the world. From her pillbox hats to her signature sunglasses, Jackie's sense of style was always impeccable and effortlessly chic, conveying a message of sophistication, confidence, and grace, making her an inspiration for women everywhere. How does an author become an author? For S E Hinton, the choice was easy — she wrote her first book when she couldn’t find anything that she wanted to read. Detective Mary Shanley may not be a name you would recognize these days, but she made headlines in her remarkably unconventional role in the 1930s as the only woman in New York police history (up to that time) ever to reach the rank of second grade detective.
How Susan B Anthony dramatically changed America for women
About Harriet Tubman: Rebel, slave activist, Union spy
Laura Ingalls Wilder's famous 'Little House' books have long enchanted readers, young and old
Marie Curie tells how she discovered radium - a scientific breakthrough
Florence Nightingale's inspiring life as the founder of modern nursing was one long sacrifice (1820-1910)
The amazing Annie Oakley: Meet the legendary American sharpshooter from the old West
The mystery of Amelia Earhart: She disappeared on her 'round-the-world flight, and was never seen again
Who was Louisa May Alcott, the woman who wrote "Little Women"?
The life of Helen Keller: In her own words, and through the eyes of a visitor
How actress Dorothy Lamour sold more than $300 million in war bonds during WWII
Shirley Temple's career - and what happened to her after being a child star
What Gloria Steinem said back in the 1970s about women aging - and how she looked in her 80s
See why Jackie Kennedy was a major fashion icon
How Outsiders & Rumble Fish author S E Hinton got her start
1930s New York City police detective 'Dead Shot' Mary Shanley