LIFE

March marks the month of the iconic girlies—Women's History Month! What better way to celebrate this female-focused time than remembering some inspirational leading ladies? While we all know significant figures such as Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Mother Teresa and Gloria Steinem (and for good reason), we also want to learn about equally world-changing-but-less-talked-about ladies.

Lucky for you, we've compiled the stories of five amazing women you probably didn't hear about in history class—and how to channel their girlboss vibes in your everyday life.

Wu Zetian

@triedkiss

The first (and only) female emperor in Chinese history, Wu Zetian ruled from 665 to 705 AD, during the Tang dynasty. She inherited the throne through her late husband after working through the royal ranks. Her ambition led her to become very involved in the Chinese government—and the country flourished under her reign. 

Your inspo: Looking to join the gaming club, but it's all guys? Wanting to run for student body president, but you'd be up against two of the most popular jocks? Wu was the only female emperor out of 556 men, so she reminds us not to let a majority presence of boys stand in the way of our dreams. 

Ada Lovelace

@littledaisy202022

A mind well ahead of her time, Ada Lovelace is often considered the first computer programmer for her work on early math devices. From 19th century Victorian England, Ada attended university and connected with many great mathematic minds. Alongside her friend Charles Babbage, she worked on an invention called the Analytical Engine, which was made to solve equations. 

Your inspo: A lot of times, it's easiest to accept what is known and not question anything—but Ada wouldn't have made it far if she had that mindset. When you have a new idea or way of doing something, you should share it and experiment with it rather than keep it to yourself. 

The Blackwell Sisters

@itslikepudding

Sisters and scientific trailblazers, Elizabeth and Emily Blackwell set the path for women in STEM. Elizabeth was the first woman (ever!) to earn a medical degree in the U.S., and Emily followed in her footsteps not far after. They were also fervent abolitionists, and while they weren't directly involved in the suffragette movement, their accomplishments greatly influenced it. 

Your inspo: To become a leading lady like the Blackwell sisters, you must learn to let rejection bounce off your back. At a time when female doctors were largely unheard of, Elizabeth was rejected from all but one of the med schools she applied to. Even in the face of failure, staying passionate will help you reach success. 

Dolores Huerta

@artswapublicart

One of the most important activists in American history, Dolores Huerta is an equal rights advocate and freedom fighter whose contributions are often overlooked. Alongside Cesar Chavez (who we celebrate with his own national holiday on March 31), Dolores founded the first farmer's unions. 

Your inspo: Make March the start of your activism era. Research causes you're passionate about and get involved (making a Change.org petition for Cesar Chavez *and* Dolores Huerta Day, anyone?). To this day, Dolores continues to fight for the rights of farmworkers, women, LGBTQ people and immigrants. 

Tarana Burke

@artandcommerce

Founder of the most well-known feminist movement of the 21st century, Tarana Burke is an activist to stop sexual harassment towards women. In 2006, she began sharing her experiences under the label "MeToo." After a decade, her bravery paid off when the hashtag became viral on social media—winning Tarana (alongside other women who'd shared their stories like Taylor Swift), Time Person of the Year 2017. 

Your inspo: Speaking out when something isn't fair is never *not* challenging. However, don't let this fear stop you from sticking up for what's right. If you see something wrong happen, (from seeing someone get picked on to something more serious), be like Tarana and don't stay silent. 

Let us know what story inspired you the most on Twitter @girlslifemag!

Looking for more stories of inspirational girls? Right this way!
💪Teen scientist Ellen Xu creates award-winning tool for Kawasaki disease
💪Meet Ayo Ebebiri, the people's princess of Ireland
💪Lily Gladstone's Golden Globe win is a triumph for Indigenous portrayal in film

Slider image: @annahiggie
Top image: @bumble

by Madeline Morrow | 3/11/2024