Politics

Fawzia Koofi (1975 - Present)

Afghan Politician and Advocate

Fawzia Koofi is an Afghan politician, writer, women’s activist, and human rights advocate. She has served as the Vice President of the National Assembly of Afghanistan, and she was a member of the peace negotiation team between the Taliban, the Afghan ministers, and the United States of America in Doha.

Koofi should be remembered not only for surviving assassination attempts, but also for standing up against the Taliban, and for her improvement of women’s rights in Afghanistan. She improved the living conditions for women in Afghan prisons, established the Elimination of Violence Against Women Act (EVAW) and a commission combatting the issue of violence (especially sexual violence) against children, helped amend the Shia personal status law, meaning women are not the property of men anymore, and promoted education for women and children. Through her work, she has advocated for access to schools and ensured that opportunities are created for non-formal education in constituencies that do not have the funds for schools.

“For as long as I am alive, I will not rest in my desire to lead my people out of an abyss of corruption and poverty.” - Fawzia Koofi

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Edith Cavell (1865-1915)

British World War I Nurse

Edith Cavell, a British nurse during the First Great War, was a woman who saved the lives of hundreds, both during and outside of the war. She is best known for actively helping downed Allied airmen escape from German-occupied Belgium during the war, and treating all soldiers no matter what side they fought for. Although she only had one year of formal instruction, Cavell played a significant role in the training of other nurses later on in life. Despite all the danger Cavell encountered throughout her nursing years, she refused to discriminate against anyone and believed that she had an obligation to help all people. Overall, she has left a lasting legacy on nursing and is now remembered as a hero for her courage and bravery.

“Patriotism is not enough; I must have no hatred or bitterness towards anyone” - Edith Cavell

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Claudia L. Gordon (1972 - Present)

First Female Black Deaf Attorney

Claudia L. Gordon is the first female Black Deaf attorney. She was originally from Jamaica, moving to the United States shortly after losing her hearing at age eight. She is the first Black Deaf alumni of American University Washington School of Law.. Most notably, she worked for the federal government during Barack Obama’s presidency. Recently, she was presented with the Max J. Starkloff Lifetime Achievement Award for her determination to create inclusive spaces and accessibilities for people with disabilities. Now, she holds multiple titles, including the chair of the National Council on Disability in addition to the Senior Accessibility Strategist with T-Mobile U.S., Incorporated. Through these positions, Gordon continuously fights for equal opportunities and inclusivity for those of all identities, especially people with disabilities.

“Accessibility and inclusion for those with disabilities is a journey where we will never arrive at an endpoint, or where we can just pat ourselves on the back and rest our laurels. When we think about accessibility, we ought to think about people.” – Claudia L. Gordon

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Dr. Dora Nkem Akunyili, OFR (1954-2014)

Politician, Pharmacist, Writer, and Activist

Dora Nkem Akunyili née Edemobi was a leading pharmacist and health activist in Nigeria. During the highlight of her career, she served as the Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and was instrumental in ensuring that Nigeria’s War on Counterfeit Drugs was not merely a dream, but rather a reality. Her efforts led to a drastic reduction in the importation and production of counterfeit drugs as well as the deaths and injuries sustained from them. Her stay in office was not smooth sailing because Akunyili was a target in numerous unsuccessful assassination attempts. After her tenure, she was appointed the Minister of Information and Technology and also ran for legislative office.

In recognition of her efforts, Akunyili was a recipient of numerous awards, rumored to be in their hundreds; including, Officer Order of the Niger (OFR) and the Integrity Award from Transparency International, South Korea.

“If we fail to act now, history will not forgive us. I rest my case.” - Dr. Dora Akunyili

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Mary McLeod Bethune (1875 - 1955)

African-American Activist, Presidential Advisor, and Former Vice-President of the NAACP

Mary McLeod Bethune was a significant influence in expanding rights for African American citizens in the United States. Her dedication to spreading knowledge is prominent through her establishment of Bethune-Cookman University. Bethune has held many distinguished roles, including serving as the president of the National Association of Colored Women and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Her achievements were described by the Daytona Beach Evening Newspaper as proving that “genius knows no racial barriers''.

Her expansive knowledge was recognized by numerous presidents as she was an advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Calvin Coolidge, and more. In addition, she was the first African American woman to head a federal agency. As stated in her last will, Bethune expressed, “If I have a legacy to leave my people, it is my philosophy of living and serving.” Overall, her life accomplishments clearly reflect her desires as her impact remains heavily prevalent today.

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Ayesha A. Malik (1966 - Present)

First Female Justice of the Supreme Court of Pakistan

From 1947 until 2021(74 years since its independence), Pakistan had not yet had a single woman on the bench in its Supreme Court. However, this dry spell ended on January 6, 2022, when Justice Ayesha A. Malik was elevated to the highest appellate court of Pakistan: the Supreme Court. Before this, she served as a Justice of the Lahore High Court in Pakistan from March 27, 2012 to January 5, 2022.

Malik has worked to protect women's rights through her judgements, most notably banning the two-finger test on victims of rape or sexual assault. This test was used on victims of sexual assault cases until it became outlawed in 2021. She also ruled that policies promoting and facilitating women's employment in Punjab were not discriminatory, but were instead based on affirmative action. Outside of this she has been a part of multiple initiatives focused on improving the position of women working in the legal field in Pakistan.

One of her most notable achievements includes a feature on BBC’s 100 Women in 2022.

“Women must build a new narrative - one that includes their perspective, shares their experience, and includes their stories.” - Justice Ayesha A. Malik.

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Charlotte E. Ray (1850-1911)

First Female African-American Lawyer

Charlotte E. Ray was the first female African-American lawyer in the United States. In 1872, she passed the bar exam at Howard University, subsequently opening a firm concentrated on commercial law. However, in 1879, Ray closed her practice, relocating to New York City to become a teacher at a public school in Brooklyn. Ray became devoted to ensuring that the voices of other women of color around her were heard. Specifically, she made an appearance at the National Woman Suffrage Association’s (NWSA) annual convention in 1876 and joined the National Association of Colored Women (NACW) in 1895.

“You can shake that shame of your secrets.” – Charlotte E. Ray

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Franca Viola (1947- Present)

First Italian woman to refuse a "rehabilitating marriage" publicly

Franca Viola symbolizes Italy's post-war civil progress and the emancipation of Italian women. Her most significant accomplishment was her refusal to marry her rapist, a defiant act that challenged the oppressive norms and laws of her time. By rejecting the so-called "rehabilitating marriage," she not only asserted her autonomy but also set a legal precedent that led to the eventual repeal of Article 544 in 1981. This article allowed rapists to absolve their crimes by marrying their victims, a practice that Franca's brave stance helped to abolish. Her actions also contributed to the reclassification of sexual violence as a crime against the victim in 1996, reflecting a crucial shift in the legal recognition of women's rights and personal dignity.

Franca's influence extended beyond legal reforms; she inspired a cultural shift in Italy, challenging the deeply entrenched honor codes that viewed women as property and their honor as something that could be tarnished and restored by men. Her courage and determination have continued to inspire generations of women and advocates for gender equality, making her a lasting figure in the fight for women's rights.

A fun fact about Franca Viola is that, after her courageous stand against societal norms and legal injustices, she went on to marry Giuseppe Ruisi in December 1968. Their wedding was celebrated with great public support, including a gift of 40 Lire (approximately $300 today) from the Italian President, a month of free railway travel from the Transport Minister, and personal praise from Pope Paul VI, who invited the couple to a private audience. This public acknowledgment of her bravery highlights the widespread admiration for her defiance and the significant impact of her actions on Italian society.

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Shidzue Katō [加藤 シヅエ] (1897-2001)

Japanese Activist, Pioneer of Women’s Reproductive Rights, and Former Member of the Japanese House of Representatives of the Diet of Japan

During the 20th century, a Japanese woman named Shidzue Katō sparked a great change in society, specifically towards birth control legislation. She is known as “Japan’s Margaret Sanger” as she greatly contributed her time to fight for women’s reproductive rights in Japan. In addition, she was also the first woman to be elected into the Diet of Japan, serving another great feat in Japan’s history regarding women’s voting rights. The Diet of Japan is the national legislature of Japan and consists of a lower house, called the House of Representatives, and an upper house, the House of Councillors.

Due to her outstanding work, Katō earned the United Nations Population Award in 1988, and The Katõ Shidzue Award was created by Dr. Attiya Inayatullah to commemorate her work within the sectors of women’s reproductive rights.

“In a sad moment, let yourself be saddened deeply. In a joyous moment, let yourself explode in celebration.” - Shidzue Katō

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Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (1954 - Present)

First Female Nigerian Finance Minister and WTO Director-General

Okonjo-Iweala is the first African and the first woman to be the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation. She also served as the Nigerian Foreign Minister (2006) and as the Nigerian Finance Minister twice (2003 - 2006; 2011 - 2015), making her the first woman to hold both positions in the Nigerian government. Under her leadership, Nigeria emerged as one of the premier economies in Africa.

During Okonjo-Iweala’s second term as Finance Minister, the Nigerian government implemented the Growing Girls and Women in Nigeria program to address the barriers faced by marginalized girls and women, such as poverty and a lack of education.

“When I became finance minister, they called me Okonjo-Wahala—or ‘Trouble Woman.’ It means ‘I give you hell.’ But I don't care what names they call me. I'm a fighter; I'm very focused on what I'm doing, and relentless in what I want to achieve, almost to a fault. If you get in my way, you get kicked.” - Okonjo-Iweala

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Rani Lakshmi Bai (1828 - 1858)

Indian Freedom Fighter, Queen of Jhansi, Leader of the Indian Mutiny from 1857 - 1858

Rani Lakshmi Bai, also known as Lakshmi Bai, was a brave woman who fought against colonial oppression from the British East India Company in the 19th century. She is one of the many faces of the Indian Rebellion against the British. Furthermore, Lakshmi Bai fought in battle dressed as a soldier and with her child tied to her back. She was a valiant woman who defied odds and overcame the challenges of colonial British India.

“We fight for independence. In the words of Lord Krishna we will, if we are victorious, enjoy the fruits of victory”- Rani Lakshmi Bai

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Jean Augustine (1937 - Present)

First African-Canadian Woman to be Elected in Canada’s House of Commons, First Black Woman in Cabinet, Former Federal Minister of the Crown, Elementary School Teacher and Principal

Jean Augustine, born in Happy Hill, Grenada, is the first African-Canadian woman to be elected to Canada’s House of Commons as a Member of Parliament in 1993. In 2002, Augustine was also appointed as the first Black woman in Cabinet and then the Government of Ontario presented her with the title of the first Fairness Commissioner in 2007. As an immigrant from Grenada, Augustine’s journey from nanny, school teacher, to principal introduced her to activism in women's rights, drug abuse, violence interventions and poverty even before she entered her work in politics. Throughout Augustine’s many careers, she has received numerous achievements and awards, including organizing the first Caribana festival in 1967 in Toronto and being both the founder and national president of the Congress of Black Women of Canada in Toronto. In addition, Augustine established Black History Month in Toronto to be set as February annually and then Black History Month federally across Canada. Some of the various awards Augustine has to her name includes the YWCA Women of Distinction Award, The Pride Newspaper Achievement Award, The Ontario Volunteer Award, and the Kaye Livingstone Award.

Augustine’s work extends far from just politics as she works to address issues in multiculturalism, women's rights, racism, immigration rights, human rights, discrimination and HIV/AIDS.

“Have a passion and know what it is. Take a risk. Look for, and find, mentors and role models. Don’t accept mediocrity. Have confidence that you can change the world.” - Jean Augustine

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Margaret Chase Smith (1897 - 1995)

First women to serve in both houses

Margaret Chase Smith was the first woman to serve in both houses of the United States Congress, paving the way for women to hold influence in both the Senate and House of Representatives. Smith was also the first woman to represent Maine in the US government. Furthermore, she passed the Women’s Armed Forces Integration Act, guaranteeing equal benefits to women who have served. She delivered the famous “Declaration of Conscience” speech as one of the first to criticize McCarthyism, an anti-communism campaign led by Senator Joseph McCarthy involving the persecution of anyone who was believed to be communist during the Cold War. Lastly, Smith served the 76th-92nd term in Congress, adding up to over 30 years of service.

“The right way is not always the popular and easy way. Standing for right when it is unpopular is a true test of moral character.”- Margaret Chase Smith

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Edith Bolling Galt Wilson (1871 - 1961)

“First woman to run the US government”

Edith Bolling Galt Wilson was the first woman to ever hold political power close to that of the President of the United States of America. Specifically, she took over the role of president during World War I and fearlessly led the nation through times of fear and uncertainty. She held great influence among the White House as well as the capital’s social elite, becoming a symbol of upholding the American homefront. The “secret president” also proved that the First Lady’s role extended beyond domestic virtues, transforming America’s perception of the First Lady to be a publicly prominent political position.

“The only decision that was mine was what was important and what was not.” - Edith Bolling Galt Wilson

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Marielle Franco (1979 - 2018)

Politician and Human Rights Activist

Franco was a black woman, part of the LGBTQ+ community, and a city council member of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. She advocated for human rights, primarily focusing her efforts against police violence in underprivileged neighborhoods. On March 14, 2018, Marielle Franco and her driver Anderson Gomes were mysteriously shot to death. Doubts arise to this day if the murder had any government interference.

Franco´s story gained international recognition and sparked fights for justice.

“How many more are going to need to die for this war to end?” – Marielle Franco

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Khunying Kanitha Wichiencharoen (1922-2002)

Lawyer, Advocate, Maechee

Khunying Kanitha Wichiencharoen pioneered women's advocacy and protection in Thailand. From 1922 to 2002, she lived to protect and support women in several aspects: health, housing, education, and exploitation prevention. While fighting and advocating for laws amendments such as ensuring fair labor pay for both men and women, she opened shelters, clinics, and teaching facilities for women and children who needed the help. Furthermore, to further the Women’s Rights Movement in Thailand, she founded the Association for the Promotion of the Status of Women (APSW) to work towards her goal of equality and inclusivity. By protecting the women who suffered from discrimination and abuse, and working to prevent other women from becoming victims of such suffering, Wichiencharoen laid down the fundamental rights women in Thailand have today.

In 2000, Dr. Suteera Thomson Vichitranonda, President of the Association for the Promotion of the Status of Women (APSW), recognized Wichiencharoen, saying that her pathway was most precious and extraordinary and that in the 80 years of her life, others received many blessings from sharing ideas with her, working together, and learning from her.

“I’m sad to say that in my country, we still have slavery even though it’s been more than 100 years since King Rama V abolished the practice.” - Khunying Wichiencharoen

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Subbulakshmi Jagadeesan (1947 - Present)

Indian Politician

Subbulakshmi Jagadeesan was a significant figure in Indian politics for many decades, starting in the 1970s and following her retirement in 2022. Jagadeesan has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of many marginalized groups in India, from handloom workers to LGBTQ+ individuals. She started in state-level politics as a Minister of Handloom Textiles and eventually became an elected member of India’s Parliament. The politician spent a short period in jail due to her suspected involvement in the murder of a militant leader by the name of Padmanabha. However, she eventually appealed her case to the Supreme Court and was cleared of all charges. After working her way up the political ladder, she spent much of her time in Parliament raising awareness for the lack of female representation in Indian politics. Subbulakshmi Jagadeesan was and continues to be a proponent of the long-discussed reservation system in Parliament, where some seats in both houses would be reserved for women.

“I am very keen to see major changes coming about in the lives of persons with autism…which come under the umbrella term developmental disabilities.” - Subbulakshmi Jagadeesan

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Abigail Adams (1744 - 1818)

Second First Lady of the United States

Abigail Adams, wife of the second President of the United States, John Adams, is one of the earliest feminists who left a lasting positive impact on a range of issues that concerned the state of American society and politics, especially in women’s rights and the Abolitionist Movement.

She is known for her influence on early politics through her husband’s presidency through her remembrance of those forgotten in the early stages of America. She was constantly supporting her husband and was recognized for her role in shaping the colonial era’s early reform movements.

“Remember the Ladies, and be more generous and favorable to them than your ancestors.” - Abigail Adams

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Queen Seondeok (632 - 647)

First Reigning Queen of Korea and the Silla Kingdom

Queen Seondeok was an influential figure throughout the 600s, significantly modifying the Silla kingdom and further defying the entrenched gender barriers present in Korea at the time. As the first female ruler and Queen of Silla, she underwent numerous substantial challenges and experiences of confrontation from opposing sides that constantly questioned her ability to lead solely due to her gender. Nevertheless, her reign can be characterized through her resilience, passion, and innovation exhibited through her leadership, as she strengthened Silla’s connection with Tang China and appeased her people by building temples and Cheomseongdae, an acclaimed astronomical observatory still garnering popularity today. By going against the status quo of the time and exhibiting steadfast resistance to male authority deeming her as unqualified, Queen Seondeok stands as a prominent figure in Korean history today demonstrating that women are capable of anything. In 2009, a historical drama about her life called Queen Seondeok was aired.

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Clementine Churchill (1885 - 1977)

Politician and Charity Worker

Clementine Churchill was the powerhouse behind Winston Churchill’s successful career. As his cunning political wife, she saved his political career when he made a blunder and saved his life during a life-threatening incident. Without her, Winston would have mentally and physically collapsed early in his political career.

However, Clementine’s influence goes beyond just being his wife. During both World Wars, she involved herself in charity work, organizing canteens for munitions workers, spearheading campaigns, and raising funds for other organizations. Her impactful contributions were later recognized with honors from Russia and the British Empire.

“You are strong because you are imperfect. You are wise because you have doubts.” - Clementine Churchill

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Wu Zetian (624 AD - 705 AD)

Holy and Divine Emperor of the Tang Dynasty in China

Wu Zetian, also known as Wu Chao or Wu Hou, was the first and only female Empress of China. She ruled during a time heavily influenced by Confucianism, which did not regard women as equal members of society.

She had significant military victories during her rule, maintained good foreign relations, improved education, and increased agricultural production. Wu ruled China for fifteen years and led the rapid development of China as the empire expanded, both in population and land.

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Virginia Hall (1906 - 1982)

American Espionage Agent

Virginia Hall was one of the first women to be an espionage agent. Although she lived in a time dominated by traditional values, where society taught her to believe that women should only focus on marriage, Hall was able to break the barriers that had been set for her. She chose to pursue higher education at one of the most prestigious women’s colleges, Barnard College, dreaming of becoming a diplomat.

Even though Hall could no longer pursue that career due to the amputation of her left leg, she did not let that dictate her life. After impressing an SOE (Special Operations Executive) agent, she was hired to work for Britain’s World War II Espionage Organization. Through her wit and bravery, Hall provided the Allies valuable information, plotted safe areas, and completed other critical missions. Two years later, she joined the OSS (Office of Strategic Services), an American spy organization, where she provided equally important information and fulfilled other dangerous missions.

She has received many awards from France, Britain, and the USA for her service. Virginia was the only woman to be given an award in World War II from the American government. After her eventful spy career, she and her husband worked office jobs at the CIA (Central Intelligence Agency) for 15 years before they retired. Hall preferred to remain unrecognized throughout the rest of her life to stay safe and undisturbed.

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Ethel Lois Payne (1911 - 1991)

African American Journalist, Political Correspondent and Civil Rights Activist

Ethel Lois Payne was a fearless woman, who served as “a voice for her people,” and remained firm to this role all throughout her life. Payne pursued a journalism career and was an advocate for underlying societal issues such as racial injustice and other civil rights dilemmas. Payne’s work and everlasting desire towards her craft established her as the “First Lady of the Black Press.”

Payne never hesitated to call out injustices, and despite criticism from other Black journalists, she continued with her reports and made history on multiple occasions, being the first African-American woman to focus on international news coverage. Payne’s commentaries and written pieces continue to inspire today’s generation of journalists, and her bold personality made her an “unsung heroine.”

“I stick to my firm, unshakeable belief that the Black press is an advocacy press, and that I, as a part of that press, can’t afford the luxury of being unbiased . . . when it come to issues that really affect my people, and I plead guilty, because I think that I am an instrument of change.” - Ethel Payne

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Sucheta Kriplani (1908 - 1974)

Indian Freedom Fighter and Politician

Sucheta is India’s first woman Chief Minister. She served as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. She was not just a politician, but also a freedom fighter who fought for India's independence. She belonged to the Indian National Congress (INC) party.

She is also the founder of the All India Mahila Congress, also known as Mahila Congress. One of her most notable accomplishments was the successful management of the state employees' 62-day strike.

“Thousands of women have participated in the various struggles of the Congress, but women had not been properly organised so far, and there was no woman’s organisation, parallel to, or as part of, the Congress’s organisation.” - Sucheta Kriplani

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Anna Chandy (1905 - 1996)

First Female Judge in India

Anna Chandy was one of the women who ignited the fire of the feminist movement, and carried the blaze throughout her life.

She was the first female high court judge of India, as well as of the whole of the (then) British commonwealth. She founded a magazine called ‘Shrimati,’ in 1930 to spread ideas of women’s freedom, rights, and equality. Throughout her life Anna Chandy stood as a beacon of hope for women around the world by raising her voice against gender discrimination. She inspired millions to stand up for what is right and left a lasting legacy as a trailblazer.

“Many of our sister-Malayalees have property rights, voting rights, employment and honours, financial independence. But how many have control over their own bodies? How many women have been condemned to depths of feelings of inferiority because of the foolish idea that women’s body is an instrument for the pleasure of men?“ - Anna Chandy

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Jacinda Ardern (1980 - Present)

Prime Minister of New Zealand and Leader of the Laborer Party

Jacinda Kate Laurell Ardern currently serves as the head of New Zealand's Labor Party since August 2017, becoming the Prime Minister of New Zealand in October of that same year. At the age of 41, Ardern’s accomplishments are lengthy, yet remarkable; in addition to being the youngest head of state, she has garnered national acclaim for her COVID efforts in New Zealand, been the first Prime Minister to march in a Pride event, been the second female leader in history to have a baby in office, and been recognized for her efforts in creating a free education system.

She continues to serve as the Prime Minister with surging approval ratings, as she showcases an exemplary courage in leadership. She continues to uphold her party’s policies, striving for reductions in the country’s carbon footprint, eradicating child poverty, increasing mental health support, and is an active advocate for pride.

Forbes ranked Prime Minister Ardern 32nd in its 2020 issue of, “World’s Most Powerful Women In Politics,” for her continued leadership of “introducing over 100 measures to block the spread of Covid-19 back in January.”

"To me, leadership is not about necessarily being the loudest in the room, but instead being the bridge, or the thing that is missing in the discussion and trying to build a consensus from there.” - Jacinda Ardern

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Empress Theodora (497/500 C.E. - 548 C.E.)

Empress of the Byzantine Empire

Theodora was the Empress of the Byzantine Empire and ruled alongside Emperor Justinian I. Although not official, she was widely regarded as his co-ruler with an equal political and intellectual partnership. She is known as one of the most influential women in history. Coming from a lowly social status as a prostitute, she enacted real change once given political power and high social status as a result of her marriage. During their reign, she strove to further the rights of women, and protect Monophysites from religious persecution.

Despite her accomplishments, Theodora’s history is surrounded by intrigue about possible political scandals. However, many of these are a result of the most prominent source of her history being from Byzantine historian Procopius’ Secret History, who openly disliked her and included speculation and few facts.

“I do not care whether or not it is proper for a woman to give brave counsel to frightened men; but in moments of extreme danger, conscience is the only guide.” - Empress Theodora

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Susi Pudjiastuti (1965 - Present)

Former Indonesian Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries and Entrepreneur

As one of the women who received the opportunity to be an Indonesian Minister, Susi Pudjiastuti is praised for her work as Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries from 2014 to 2019. Additionally, she earned the title of an entrepreneur through her ownership of PT ASI Pudjiastuti Marine Product and Susi Air. This incredible woman is renowned for having a highly impactful, inspirational, and independent spirit.

“Dream as high as possible. There is a cost to make that dream come true. The cost to achieve that dream is through hard work, passion, and commitment.” -Susi Pudjiastuti

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Devi Ahilyabai Holkar (1725 - 1795)

Prominent Ruler of Malwa Kingdom and Politician

Ahilyabai Holkar was the hereditary noble sardar of the Maratha Empire in India. Holkar was born in the village of Chondi in Jamkhed, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra. She moved the seat of her fiefdom to Maheshwar south of Indore on the Narmada River.

John Keay, the British historian, gave her the title of ‘The Philosopher Queen.’ He said in her praise: ‘Ahilyabai Holkar, the philosopher-queen of Malwa, had evidently been an acute observer of the wider political scene.’ The Queen of Malwa was not only a brave queen and skilled ruler but also a learned politician.

A year after her father died, she took over the affairs of Holkar fief. She tried to protect her land from plundering invaders and personally led armies into battle. Holkar was a great pioneer and builder of Hindu temples. She built hundreds of temples and Dharmashalas throughout India.

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Ana Betancourt (1832 - 1901)

Cuban Political Figure and Revolutionary

One of the first known feminists in Cuba, Ana Betancourt became an important female figure in the fight for independence in her country. Her work as a Mambisa, or female rebel, against the Spanish colonists proved women’s contributions during the war. To recognize the importance of her impact, Cuba later established the Ana Betancourt Medal to be given to women who demonstrate anti-imperialist fidelity and radical energy as well as internationalist merit.

“Citizens: here everything was enslaving: the cradle, the color and the sex. You want to destroy the slavery of the cradle, fighting until death. You have destroyed the slavery of color, emancipating the slave. The moment has arrived to liberate the woman!” -Ana Betancourt

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Mai Bhago Ji (1666 - 1708)

Female Sikh Warrior

Mai Bhago Ji was the first known Sikh woman in history to fight in a war, becoming a trailblazer for many other warriors, female and male, and for Sikh women.

On top of being the only woman in the Sikh forces during the war between Mughals and Sikhs, she was the only Sikh soldier who remained alive. Afterwards, she became a leader within the Sikh community as she was given the honor to become a bodyguard for the tenth guru of Sikhism.

Ji’s legacy continues to live on. Today, there are schools, colleges, various professional teams, and even an armed force named after her.

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Sri Mulyani (1962 - Present)

Indonesian Minister of Finance and Former Chief Operating Officer of World Bank

Sri Mulyani Indrawati currently serves as Indonesia’s Minister of Finance, after her role as COO in the World Bank. She received immense credit for improving Indonesia’s economy, but has also used her platform to promote gender equality. Acknowledging her spectacular work, Forbes ranked Sri Mulyani as 23rd in a list of the most influential women of the world, while Globe Asia Magazine presented her with the title of the most powerful woman in Indonesia.

“Women are emerging as a major force for change. Countries that have invested in girls' education and removed legal barriers that prevent women from achieving their potential are now seeing the benefits.” -Sri Mulyani Indrawati

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Juana “La Avanzadora” Ramirez (1790 - 1856)

Venezuelan Revolutionary

Ramirez was born into slavery and is remembered as a soldier and leader in the Venezuelan War of Independence. As a revolutionary, she led a fully female group against Spanish soldiers who aimed to conquer the state as a colony. Ramirez is considered a notable Venezuelan native and worked for independence in Guarico, a Northern region of Venezuela. In the early 2010s, Juana Ramirez became the first black woman to have their final resting place be at the National Pantheon of Venezuela and have a ceremony of remembrance at the National Heroes Mausoleum.

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Joan Clarke (1917 - 1996)

English Cryptanalyst, Code-Breaker and Numismatis

Joan Clarke was an important individual during World War II, as she played an integral part in code-breaking Nazi Germany’s secret communications. Her mathematical abilities won her scholarships, degrees, and she was noticed by one of the top four mathematicians at Bletchley Park.

Clarke was recruited to work at Bletchley Park in 1940, serving as one of two female codebreakers. She was initially placed in a group of women to do clerical work, but once her code-breaking abilities were discovered, she became a staple of the team that broke the German Enigma. After the war, Clarke worked for the Government Communications Headquarters, researched coinage, and helped historians study the war-time code-breaking achievements of Bletchley Park. Due to the secrecy in the cryptanalytic field, the full extent of her achievements is unknown.

Because of her code-breaking achievements during the war, Joan Clarke was appointed a Member of the British Empire and because of her numismatic achievements, Clarke was awarded the Sanford Saltus Medal.

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Melchora Aquino (1812 - 1917)

Filipina Revolutionary and National Hero

Melchora Aquino is known by many names. Mother of the Balintawak, Grand Woman of the Revolution and Mother of the Philippine Revolution are some of her titles, but by far, her most popular moniker is “Tandang Sora.” Tandang Sora is an unsung hero of the Philippine revolution, one long forgotten in history which occurred in the late 1890s.

Though Tandang Sora never received awards or achievements for her part in the war during the time she was alive, she is honored posthumously as a national hero.

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Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (1952 - Present)

First Latina elected to US Congress and First Republican to Publicly Support Marriage Equality Act

In 1989, Ileana Ros-Lehtinen was the first Hispanic woman to be elected to Congress. She was a member of Congress for almost three decades and represents a congressional district in South Florida. Ros-Lehtinen is from Havana, Cuba and has strongly voiced her opposition towards the Cuban government as she fights for the people’s freedom, democracy, and human rights. She made clear her opposition to dictatorships in Cuba, to the point where Fidel Castro gave her the nickname, “la Loba Feroz,” which translates to the “Ferocious She Wolf.”

Ros-Lehtinen is a trailblazer for the LGBTQ+ community, which is apparent in her constant support for her transgender son, Rodrigo. In 2012, she was the first Republican to support marriage equality. She believes that it is important to accept your children for who they are and show unconditional love and support. Ros-Lehtinen has been a strong voice and congresswoman on Capitol Hill and has shown time and again that her work is not about politics or partisanship, but about people.

In 2018, Ileana Ros-Lehtinen decided to not seek re-election for Congress. Ros-Lehtinen was loved by her constituents, but retiring was a personal decision. While she is grateful to the United States and her constituents for giving her the opportunity to live a career of purpose and love, there are new adventures that await her in her personal life.

“The issue of marriage equality, that was something the whole country had evolved on. Now it’s so accepted within our society, and I think it makes us a better county. If more members of our party listened to their hearts and acted on that, I think we would be better off.” -Ileana Ros-Lehtinen

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Trưng Trằc and Trưng Nhi (12 C.E. - 43 C.E.)

Vietnamese Military Leaders and First Female Vietnamese Monarchs

Trưng Trằc and Trưng Nhi were sisters known as the heroines and leaders of the first Vietnamese independence movement from the Han Dynasty of China. When the Chinese government killed Trưng Trằc’s husband, Thi Sách, for starting a rebellion, the sisters decided to continue and take over the rebellion against the tyrant rule in Vietnam. Skilled in military techniques and fighting styles, they led an army of 80,000, mostly consisting of women, against the Han Dynasty and established an independent state for 3 years under Trưng Trằc’s rule.

The Vietnamese people hailed them as “the queens of the Vietnamese nation” and called Trằc as Trưng Vương or “She-king Trưng.”

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Amy Jean Klobuchar (1960 - Present)

First Female Minnesota Senator and Attorney

Amy Klobuchar is an American Senator and attorney from Minnesota. She attended Yale University and went to law school at the University of Chicago. Her work is powered by the love she has for her state.

Klobuchar is the first woman to represent Minnesota in the senate. As a Senator, Klobuchar established herself as a bipartisan coordinator and liberal. In the 2020 election, Klobuchar ran for president in which she advocated for investments in infrastructure and a public option for healthcare.

“Courage means standing next to someone you don’t always agree with for the betterment of the country.” -Amy Klobuchar

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Nancy Wake (1912 - 2011)

Servicewoman, WWII Resistance Agent, and Spy

Nancy Wake was one of the allied forces’ most celebrated women over the course of World War II. As a journalist who became a French resistance agent, Wake dedicated herself to helping Jews and Allied soldiers escape France. After helping hundreds escape during the years of 1940 to 1943, her activities finally appeared on the radar of the Nazi German secret police, known as the Gestapo. She became Gestapo’s #1 Most Wanted Person and was forced to flee France for her safety.

After escaping the Gestapo, Nancy Wake reached England and was trained in the British Special Operations Executive (SOE), an English governmental intelligence unit that worked closely with French resistance. She was vital in the famous D-Day battle, not only leading some attacks, but also establishing supply and ammunition drops in preparation for D-Day.

Her contributions to the allied forces were recognized, as she received 12 different medals from 5 different countries and became one of the most decorated women of the Second World War.

“Freedom is the only thing worth living for. While I was doing that work, I used to think it didn't matter if I died, because without freedom there was no point in living.” -Nancy Wake

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Mariam-uz-Zamani (1542 - 1623)

Queen of the Mughal Empire

Mariam-uz-Zamani was the wife of Akbar and was known as Jodha. As a Hindu person married to a Muslim ruler, she encouraged Akbar’s religious tolerance and inclusive practices. She was also one of the most significant and influential figures during the reign of her son, Jahangir. She is most known for embodying the Mughal Dynasty’s multi-ethnic empire.

Even as a woman of high status, she experienced many obstacles and hate for being the Hindu Queen of a Muslim-dominated empire, but remained strong by advising both her husband and her son during their reigns.

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Madeleine Albright (1937 - Present)

First Female Secretary of State of the United States of America

Madeleine Albright is a highly influential figure who served the United States government. She is best known for her service to the United States of America in her position as ambassador to the United Nations as well as the Secretary of State.

Albright is now a celebrated author of several memoirs and was granted the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2012.

“There is a special place in hell for women who do not help other women.” -Madeleine Albright


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Boudica (30 - 61 AD)

Queen of the Iceni

Boudica was the Queen of the Celtic Iceni tribe who spearheaded a rebellion against oppressive Roman rule in ancient Britain. Although the revolt failed, her forces managed to defeat 70,000 Romans and their supporters. She trained as a warrior and fought in several battles, which was especially rare for a woman at the time. Boudica is renowned as a hero and symbol of courage and justice.

“Nothing is safe from Roman pride and arrogance. They will deface the sacred and will deflower our virgins. Win the battle or perish, that is what I, a woman, will do.” -Boudica to Tacitus (Roman historian)


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Sobekneferu (Unknown -1802 B.C.)

Pharaoh of Egypt and Last Ruler of the Twelfth Dynasty of Egypt

Sobekneferu was the first female pharaoh of Egypt for which there is definitive proof of her rule. She came to power when Amenemhet IV died without a male heir, making her next in the line of succession. Sobekneferu reigned for close to three years and eleven months and commissioned beautiful complexes in Hawara, Heracleopolis Magna, and Crocodilopolis. Her death marked the end of both the Twelfth Dynasty of Egypt and Golden Age of the Middle Kingdom.


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Jeannette Rankin (1880 - 1973)

American Congresswoman, Pacifist, and Suffragette

Jeannette Rankin was the first woman elected into Congress in 1916 as a Representative from Montana, and she was reelected in 1940 as a Representative for a different district in Montana. She joined the National American Woman Suffrage Association as a lobbyist and helped gain the vote for women in Montana in 1914, she established the Georgia Peace Society and was the main speaker and lobbyist for the National Council for the Prevention of War between 1929 and 1939. She devoted her life’s work to pacifism and social advocacy.

“We’re half the people; we should be half the Congress,” Rankin remarked, calling for more equal representation of men and women in Congress.


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Lakshmibai (1835 - 1858)

Queen of Jhansi and Rebel Leader

Lakshmibai, Queen of Jhansi, is an Indian legend who defied the British forces that occupied her land. When the British East India Company refused to accept her adopted son as legitimate and moved their forces into her lands, she joined a group of resistance fighters and helped amass an army to fight against the British in the famous Revolt of 1857. Due to her brave actions, she is sometimes referred to as the “Joan of Arc of India”.

The Indian National Army created an all-women regiment in 1943, bearing her name, in order to acknowledge her great bravery and service to India. Even now, the term “Jhansi Ki Rani” is used to describe brave women in India.

“I will not give my Jhansi at any cost.” - Rani (Queen) Lakshmibai


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Wu Yi (1938 - Present)

Chinese Politician, Former Vice Premier of the Chinese State Council, and The “Iron Lady”

Wu Yi was a prominent figure in the first decade of the 21st century. Petroleum engineer turned politician, Wu Yi rose through the ranks of China’s Communist Party and was the Vice Premier of the State Council from 2003-2008. She oversaw trade negotiations and hammered out several agreements herself.

During the SARs outbreak, Wu Yi stepped up as Minister of Health and implemented sweeping social distancing procedures, publicized hospital records, and enforced World Health Organization recommendations to stop the spread of the epidemic. Having saved thousands of lives, she was hailed as the “Goddess of Transparency” and offers an important model for dealing with the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Forbes magazine ranked her second in The Most Powerful Women in the world in 2004, 2005, and 2007 and third in 2006.


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Benazir Bhutto (1953 - 2007)

Feminist, Politician, and Visionary

Benazir Bhutto was the first woman to be elected Prime Minister of Pakistan but also the first female to be elected head of state of any Muslim country. She was highly educated and attended both Harvard University and Oxford University. She became chairperson of the Pakistan People’s Party and fought for social justice.

Bhutto was exiled from Pakistan but still was able to direct her party and ensured their success in elections.

“Clearly it's not easy for women in modern society, no matter where they live. We still have to go the extra mile to prove that we are equal to men. we have to work longer hours and make more sacrifices. And we must emotionally protect ourselves from unfair, often vicious attacks made on us via the male members of our family.” -Benazir Bhutto


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