The pages of history are filled with countless incredible women. From warriors to scientists, artists and activists, women have been making a positive impact on the world as far back as humans can remember. Unfortunately, not all these amazing individuals have received the recognition they deserve. Too often they slip through the cracks of education and fall into obscurity, despite their major contributions to modern society. With the beginning of Women’s History Month, educators are in an ideal position to make a positive change and teach students more about the accomplishments and contributions of women throughout history.
Here are just four female trailblazers who helped make the world a better place through their curiosity, creativity, and determination:
Wang Zhenyi
Considered one of the greatest scientists in the Qing dynasty, Wang Zhenyi was a famous scholar who broke feudal norms by educating herself in astronomy, mathematics, geography, and medicine. Wang particularly excelled in astronomy and mathematics, using both to explain how stars and planets move as well as how to calculate their trajectory. She was also an accomplished poet, writing at least thirteen volumes of poetry, prose, and assorted literature in her lifetime. These accomplishments led her to be recognized as one of the most renowned female scholars of her age.
Ida B. Wells
Ida B. Wells was an African American journalist, suffragist, and civil rights activist who risked her life to hold murderers accountable for their crimes. Wells documented and exposed the atrocities of lynching in the late 19th and early 20th century through her writing and investigative journalism. Wells writings shocked the nation and helped to raise awareness of other discriminatory practices throughout the country. Wells was also a key player in the fight for women’s suffrage.
Eleanor Roosevelt
Eleanor Roosevelt was the longest-serving First Lady throughout her husband President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s four terms in office (1933-1945). Eleanor used her platform as First Lady to advocate for women’s rights and social justice. She authored numerous articles and books, sharing the stories of women’s struggles and promoting their empowerment. Later she would go on to serve as spokeswomen for the United Nations. Her tireless work to improve the lives of the underprivileged made her one of the most beloved First Ladies in American history.
Georgia O’Keeffe
Georgia O’Keeffe was an American artist best known for her unique paintings of enlarged flowers, New York skyscrapers, and New Mexico landscapes. O’Keeffe is considered by some to be the “Mother of American modernism” since her artwork explored new ideas and techniques which sought to better depict the modern world in art. Through her bold and colorful works, she celebrated the beauty of nature and showed the boldness and creativity of women. Today, her artwork can be found in museums across the country.
If you found these strategies to be helpful, be sure to check out the Blue Apple Timely Topic: Celebrating Women’s History Month. This resource comes with five free activities that will help your students exercise their creative and critical thinking skills while learning about the influence and impact that women have had on our history. Do one or do them all — the choice is yours. Don’t miss this opportunity to inspire your students and recognize Women’s History Month in a way that’s memorable, meaningful, and fun!
*Today’s image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.